Moving to Ridgewood, NJ: All Costs & Considerations
Ridgewood, New Jersey sits among the most desirable suburbs in North Jersey. Located in Bergen County, the village combines a walkable downtown, strong public schools, and a convenient commute to New York City. Because of these advantages, many families and professionals relocating from Manhattan, Brooklyn, and nearby New Jersey towns frequently place Ridgewood at the top of their list.
This guide explains what it’s like living in Ridgewood, what moving there involves, and what new residents should know before planning a relocation.
Where Ridgewood Is Located
Ridgewood is a village in Bergen County, about 20 miles northwest of Manhattan. Its location provides residents with easy access to the city while maintaining a quiet suburban lifestyle.
Nearby towns include:
- Paramus
- Glen Rock
- Ho-Ho-Kus
- Wyckoff
Major highways such as Route 17 and Garden State Parkway run close to the village, making regional travel relatively easy.
Why People Are Moving to Ridgewood
Several factors make Ridgewood one of the most sought-after places to live in North Jersey.
1. Highly Rated Public Schools
The Ridgewood Public Schools district consistently ranks among the top public school systems in the state. Schools like:
- Ridgewood High School
- George Washington Middle School
are known for strong academics, athletics, and college preparation programs.
Because of this reputation, many families relocate specifically to access the district.
2. A Walkable Downtown
Unlike many suburbs, Ridgewood has a lively and pedestrian-friendly downtown area centered around East Ridgewood Avenue.
Residents can walk to:
- Restaurants
- Cafés
- Boutiques
- Grocery stores
- Fitness studios
Popular spots include:
- Latour Restaurant
- Roots Steakhouse
- Raymond’s
This vibrant downtown gives Ridgewood a small-town feel with city-like amenities.
3. Convenient NYC Commute
Many Ridgewood residents commute daily to Manhattan.
The NJ Transit Main Line runs through the Ridgewood Station, offering direct service into Hoboken Terminal and connections to Penn Station.
Typical commute times:
| Destination | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| Hoboken | 35–40 minutes |
| Midtown Manhattan | 45–60 minutes |
| Wall Street | 60–75 minutes |
This accessibility makes Ridgewood especially attractive to professionals working in finance, tech, or media.
Cost of Living in Ridgewood
Ridgewood is considered a premium Bergen County town, and housing costs reflect that demand.
Median Home Prices
Typical home prices vary depending on neighborhood and property size.
| Home Type | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Small single-family home | $800K – $1.1M |
| Updated colonial homes | $1.1M – $1.8M |
| Luxury homes | $2M+ |
Because inventory is often limited, homes frequently receive multiple offers.
Cost to Rent in Ridgewood, NJ
While Ridgewood is known primarily as a homeowner-driven market, rentals do exist and are often in high demand due to the village’s schools, commute to NYC, and walkable downtown. Many renters include professionals relocating from Manhattan or families waiting to purchase a home.
Rental inventory tends to be limited, which can push prices higher than nearby towns.
Average Rent in Ridgewood
Below are typical monthly rental ranges based on recent listings and North Jersey market trends.
| Rental Type | Average Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | $1,900 – $2,300 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment | $2,200 – $2,800 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartment | $2,900 – $3,800 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment / Townhome | $3,800 – $5,500 |
| Single-Family Home Rental | $4,500 – $7,500+ |
Many rental homes in Ridgewood include yards, garages, and multiple floors, which explains the higher price range compared to standard apartments.
Where Most Rentals Are Located
Rental properties are typically found in a few specific areas of the village.
Near Downtown Ridgewood
Close to restaurants, shops, and Ridgewood Station, these apartments are ideal for commuters.
Multi-Family Homes
Many older houses in Ridgewood have been converted into two-family or three-family rental units.
Garden Apartment Complexes
Some small apartment communities exist on the outskirts of town, offering quieter residential settings.
Property Taxes
New Jersey property taxes are among the highest in the country, and Ridgewood is no exception.
Average property taxes typically range between:
$15,000 – $25,000 per year
The higher taxes support:
- Public schools
- Parks and recreation
- Municipal services
Best Neighborhoods in Ridgewood
Each area of Ridgewood offers a slightly different lifestyle.
Ridge School Area
Quiet streets and large homes make this area popular among families with younger children.
Willard School Area
Close to downtown and the train station, this neighborhood attracts commuters.
Somerville School Area
Known for beautiful historic homes and tree-lined streets.
Downtown Ridgewood
Residents living near downtown enjoy walkability and easy train access.
Things to Do in Ridgewood
Although Ridgewood is a suburban village, there are plenty of activities for residents.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
The village maintains several well-kept parks, including:
- Van Neste Square Memorial Park
- Graydon Park
- Saddle River County Park
Residents often use these spaces for jogging, biking, and family gatherings.
Shopping Nearby
Ridgewood is located minutes from major shopping centers such as:
- Westfield Garden State Plaza
- The Shops at Riverside
These malls offer high-end retailers, restaurants, and entertainment.
What Moving to Ridgewood Is Like
Moving into Ridgewood involves some logistical considerations common in North Jersey suburbs.
Narrow Streets and Driveways
Many Ridgewood neighborhoods feature older homes with narrow driveways or limited curb space. Professional movers often plan truck placement carefully to avoid blocking traffic.
Parking Rules for Moving Trucks
Certain streets may require temporary parking arrangements for large moving trucks. It is often helpful to coordinate with neighbors or local authorities when reserving space for a moving vehicle.
High Demand Moving Dates
Because Ridgewood families often move during the summer before the school year begins, the busiest moving period occurs between:
June – August
Booking movers several weeks in advance is recommended.
Who Ridgewood Is Best For
Ridgewood appeals to several types of residents.
Families
The town is widely known for:
- Strong schools
- Safe neighborhoods
- Community events
This makes it a favorite among families relocating from NYC.
NYC Professionals
Ridgewood offers a balance between suburban living and urban access. Many professionals choose it because they can enjoy a quieter lifestyle while maintaining a manageable commute.
Long-Term Homeowners
Because property values tend to remain strong in Bergen County, Ridgewood also attracts buyers seeking stable real estate investments.
Pros and Cons of Living in Ridgewood
Every town has advantages and drawbacks. Understanding both can help you decide if Ridgewood fits your lifestyle.
Pros
- Excellent public schools
- Safe neighborhoods
- Walkable downtown
- Easy commute to NYC
- Strong property values
Cons
- High property taxes
- Competitive housing market
- Higher cost of living compared to other NJ towns
Tips for Planning a Move to Ridgewood
Moving to North Jersey requires some preparation.
Plan Early
Homes in Ridgewood often close quickly, so planning a moving timeline early helps reduce stress.
Measure Doorways and Staircases
Many Ridgewood homes were built decades ago and may have tighter staircases than modern homes.
Schedule Utilities Ahead of Time
Setting up services before moving day ensures everything is ready when you arrive.
Final Thoughts
Ridgewood offers a rare combination of suburban comfort and metropolitan access. Its top-tier schools, vibrant downtown, and convenient commute make it one of the most desirable places to live in Bergen County.
For families seeking strong community ties or professionals looking for a peaceful retreat from city life, Ridgewood continues to be one of the most appealing destinations in North Jersey.
With the right preparation and planning, relocating to Ridgewood can be a smooth transition into one of New Jersey’s most charming and well-established communities.
