If you're relocating to Bergen County and prioritizing educational options, the quality of local schools is probably near the top of your list — and it should be. New Jersey consistently ranks among the top five states for public education, and Bergen County is home to some of the strongest districts in the state.
But "best" is relative. The district that suits one household's needs might not be the right fit for a high schooler who thrives in a larger, more competitive environment. Here's a practical, honest guide to Bergen County's top school districts and programs — what the ratings say, what they don't, and what actually matters for your household.
What Do the Ratings Actually Mean?
Most parents encounter school quality through sites like GreatSchools.org and Niche.com. Both use 1–10 rating scales, but they measure different things:
- GreatSchools.org rates schools primarily on standardized test performance, student progress, and equity gaps. A 7/10 or above is considered above average in New Jersey.
- Niche.com incorporates test scores, parent/student surveys, teacher quality, and overall experience. It tends to rate districts more holistically.
Neither system tells the whole story. A school rated 7/10 might have exceptional arts programs, special education support, or extracurriculars that a test-based rating misses entirely. I always recommend visiting schools in person and talking to current parents — the lived experience often differs from the data snapshot.
Top-Rated Public School Districts in Bergen County
Here are the districts that consistently rank highest across multiple rating systems:
Top Tier (8/10 or above on GreatSchools)
- Tenafly — Rated 8/10. Tenafly High School is one of the top public high schools in Bergen County, with strong AP participation rates, high college enrollment, and a diverse student body. The district's elementary and middle schools are equally well-regarded. Median home prices in the $550K–$750K range reflect the school premium.
- Ridgewood — Rated 8/10. Ridgewood's village schools are known for academic rigor, active parent involvement, and strong extracurricular programs. The district serves grades K–12 and consistently sends graduates to top universities. The walkable village center is an added lifestyle bonus.
- Englewood Cliffs — Rated 8/10. A small, intimate district with strong academics and personalized attention. The town's estate-style homes and larger lots appeal to residents seeking space alongside quality schools.
- Glen Rock — Rated 8/10. A tight-knit borough with consistently high test scores and a community-oriented school culture. The smaller district size means more individual attention for students.
- Wyckoff — Rated 8/10. Known for strong academics, modern facilities, and a established community with mature trees. The Ramapo Indian Hills regional high school serves the area with a wide range of AP courses and athletics.
Strong Performers (7/10)
- Fort Lee — Rated 7/10 average. School No. 1 is a standout, ranking in the top 5% of New Jersey elementary schools. The district serves a large, diverse student body from pre-K through 12th grade.
- Teaneck — A large, diverse district with a celebrated history of voluntary integration dating to 1965. Multiple elementary and middle schools, plus Teaneck High School with a solid range of AP courses and extracurriculars.
- Rutherford — A walkable borough with well-regarded schools, a charming downtown, and easy PATH/NJ Transit access. The district consistently performs above state averages.
- River Edge — A quiet borough with solid schools and a suburban feel. The River Dell regional high school serves the area.
- Franklin Lakes — Ramapo Indian Hills regional district serves the area with strong academics and a range of honors and AP programs.
The Hidden Gem: Bergen County Academies
Here's what most relocators don't know: Bergen County has a countywide magnet school system that's consistently ranked among the top public high schools in the entire country.
Bergen County Academies (BCA) in Hackensack is a tuition-free, application-based public high school serving students from all 70 Bergen County municipalities. It offers specialized academies in areas like Science & Technology, Business & Finance, Visual & Performing Arts, and Pre-Medical Sciences. U.S. News & World Report has ranked BCA in the top 10 public high schools nationally — multiple times.
Bergen County Technical Schools (BCT) offer career-focused technical education programs as well, with campuses in Hasbrouck Heights, Paramus, and Teterboro. These programs are also countywide and application-based.
The key takeaway: even if your town's local high school isn't rated 9/10, your child may be eligible for BCA or BCT through countywide admissions. This is a genuine advantage that Bergen County homebuyers often overlook when choosing where to live.
Private and Parochial Options
Bergen County also has a strong selection of private schools:
- Paramus Catholic High School — A coed Catholic high school in Paramus with a long history of academic and athletic achievement.
- Don Bosco Preparatory High School — An all-boys Catholic school in Ramsey, known for rigorous academics and competitive athletics.
- Immaculate Heart Academy — An all-girls Catholic school, consistently ranked among the top girls' schools in the state.
- Einhorn School of Performing Arts and other specialized programs serve students with specific artistic or academic interests.
Many towns also have well-regarded parochial elementary schools, including Leonia, Cliffside Park, and Palisades Park, where Catholic elementary schools serve residents seeking faith-based education.
How Schools Affect Home Prices
There's a direct and measurable link between school ratings and home values in Bergen County. Districts rated 8/10 or above typically command a 10–20% price premium over comparable homes in 7/10 districts. That premium is most visible in:
- Tenafly — Median home prices of $550K–$750K, driven in part by the school district's reputation.
- Ridgewood — The village's walkability and school quality push median prices well above $650K.
- Glen Rock — Consistently strong schools keep demand — and prices — elevated in this small borough.
If school quality is a top priority, it's worth factoring the price premium into your overall budget. For a realistic look at what your monthly costs would actually look like, see our cost of living breakdown and our guide to how much house you can afford in Bergen County.
Schools vs. Everything Else: Finding the Right Balance
Here's the honest truth I share with every client: school ratings matter, but they're one factor among many. A student who thrives in a small, intimate district might struggle in a large, competitive one — or vice versa. The "best" school is the one that fits your learning style, interests, and social needs.
Some of my clients specifically target 8/10+ districts and are willing to pay the premium. Others find that a 7/10 district — like Fort Lee or Teaneck — offers everything their household needs, with the savings going toward a larger home, shorter commute, or better lifestyle fit.
If you're weighing school quality alongside commute time, home prices, and neighborhood feel, I'd love to help you map out your options. With experience since 1993 across Bergen County, I can help you find the community where you and your household will truly thrive.