Allendale
Top schools, train access, and quiet suburban character
By Scott Selleck — Licensed NJ/FL Real Estate Agent | 32+ Years in Bergen & Hudson Counties | The Selleck Group / KW City Views Realty
Last updated: June 2026
What Is It Like to Live in Allendale, NJ?
Allendale is a small Bergen County borough of approximately 7,000 residents that consistently ranks among the top family communities in Northern New Jersey. With median home prices of $975K–$1.2M, its combination of top-rated schools, NJ Transit train access, and a quiet residential character makes it one of the most sought-after addresses in the Pascack Valley.
Allendale sits in the heart of the Pascack Valley, a cluster of well-established suburban communities in northwestern Bergen County. The borough manages to feel like a true small town — the kind of place where the gazebo on the town green hosts summer concerts and the annual tree lighting draws families from across the community — while offering the practical infrastructure that commuters and working families need.
The downtown area along West Allendale Avenue and Franklin Turnpike features local shops, restaurants, and everyday services within walking distance of the residential core. Crestwood Lake Park anchors the community's outdoor life, with a spring-fed lake, playground, and sports fields that draw families throughout the year.
Allendale's greatest draw is its school system. The Allendale Public School District serves grades K–8, and students go on to Northern Highlands Regional High School, which carries a 10/10 GreatSchools rating. For families prioritizing education, Allendale is consistently one of the first names on the list. Browse Scott's current listings to see available homes in the Allendale area.
Top-Rated Schools in Allendale, NJ?
9/10 average average. Allendale Public Schools K–8 feed into Northern Highlands Regional High School (10/10 GreatSchools).
What Do Homes Cost in Allendale, NJ in 2026?
Median list prices range from $975K to $1.2M. Predominantly single-family homes — colonials, ranches, and newer construction on well-maintained lots.
How Long Is the Commute from Allendale to NYC?
NJ Transit Bergen County Line from Allendale Station to Hoboken in ~35 min, then PATH to WTC. GW Bridge drive is 35–45 min off-peak.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Allendale, NJ?
Allendale's dining scene centers along West Allendale Avenue and Franklin Turnpike, with a mix of upscale Italian, classic steakhouses, and neighborhood cafés. The nearby Pascack Valley towns of Ramsey, Waldwick, and Hillsdale expand the options considerably.
Savini Restaurant
An upscale Italian restaurant on West Crescent Avenue, known for handmade pasta, veal dishes, and an extensive wine list. One of Allendale's most established dining destinations with consistently strong reviews.
Allendale Steakhouse
A classic American steakhouse on West Allendale Avenue serving prime cuts, seafood, and cocktails in a warm, traditional atmosphere. A go-to for celebrations and weekend dinners.
Bistango
A contemporary Italian restaurant and cocktail lounge in nearby Ramsey with seasonal menus, wood-fired dishes, and a lively bar scene. Popular with Allendale residents for date nights.
Café NONA
A neighborhood café on West Allendale Avenue serving specialty coffee, fresh pastries, and light breakfast and lunch fare. A community gathering spot for morning coffee and casual meetings.
Allendale's restaurant selection pairs well with neighboring Ramsey, Waldwick, and Hillsdale for a wider variety of cuisines.
What Parks and Recreation Does Allendale Offer?
Allendale offers a spring-fed lake park, woodland trails, and access to Darlington County Park's 134 acres of hiking and sports facilities. The borough's parks serve as the centerpiece of community life throughout the year.
Crestwood Lake Park
Allendale's signature park featuring a spring-fed lake, playground, sports fields, and picnic areas. The lake is available for fishing and paddleboating in season, and the surrounding paths are popular for walks.
Darlington County Park
A sprawling Bergen County park just south of Allendale with hiking trails, sports fields, a disc golf course, and scenic wooded areas across 134 acres.
Nature Trail Park
A peaceful woodland trail system within the borough offering a quiet escape for nature walks and birdwatching through mature forested areas.
Borough Park
A neighborhood park with open green space, playground equipment, and recreation facilities. Home to community sports leagues and summer programs.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in Allendale, NJ?
Allendale hosts a warm calendar of community gatherings, from summer concerts on the gazebo green and a weekly farmers market to the annual holiday tree lighting and Memorial Day parade.
Summer Concert Series
Free outdoor concerts held on the Allendale gazebo green during summer months. A beloved weekly tradition featuring local musicians and community gathering on warm evenings.
Allendale Farmers Market
Weekly farmers market running through the summer season with local produce, baked goods, artisanal products, and prepared foods from Bergen County vendors.
Holiday Tree Lighting
An annual community celebration held each December at the Allendale gazebo featuring carols, hot cocoa, and the ceremonial lighting of the town holiday tree.
Memorial Day Parade
Allendale's annual Memorial Day parade and ceremony honoring veterans, followed by community gatherings and family activities throughout the borough.
How Do You Get to Manhattan from Allendale, NJ?
Allendale's NJ Transit Bergen County Line station is a major advantage, providing direct rail service to Hoboken Terminal without needing to drive to a neighboring town. From Hoboken, PATH trains continue to the World Trade Center, or NJ Transit rail connects to New York Penn Station.
Allendale's own NJ Transit station on the Bergen County Line is one of the borough's most valuable assets. Trains run frequently during rush hours, with the ride to Hoboken Terminal taking approximately 30–40 minutes. From Hoboken, the PATH train reaches the World Trade Center in about 15 minutes, or NJ Transit continues to New York Penn Station in about 15 minutes.
Driving to Manhattan is also feasible — the George Washington Bridge is approximately 35–45 minutes off-peak via Routes 17 and 4. Rush hour traffic can push that to 60–90 minutes. The NJ Transit bus routes 164, 166, and 167 serve the broader area from nearby stops.
Property taxes are an important consideration in Allendale. The borough's mill rate is among the higher in Bergen County, reflecting the quality of its school system and municipal services. Homeowners should budget for taxes in the $18,000–$25,000+ range depending on assessed value.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Allendale, NJ
Is Allendale a good place to live?
How far is Allendale from NYC?
What is the average home price in Allendale?
Are the schools in Allendale good?
Is Allendale safe?
Nearby Towns
Mahwah
A larger township at the northern tip of Bergen County with top-rated schools and extensive outdoor recreation.
Ramsey
A northern Bergen County borough with strong schools and two NJ Transit train stations.
Waldwick
A walkable borough with a charming downtown and NJ Transit Main Line train access.
Paramus
Bergen County's retail capital with major shopping destinations and frequent bus service to Manhattan.
Considering a move to Florida? Read our NJ to Florida Moving Guide for cost comparisons, moving process, and school districts.
Allendale — Schools & Education
Schools serving the Allendale area span public, private, parochial, and early childhood options across multiple grade levels.
Public Schools
The Allendale Public School District serves this community. Schools in the district include:
Elementary Schools
- Hillside Elementary School — K–2 | Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org, 2026)
- Brookside Elementary School — 3–5 | Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org, 2026)
Middle Schools
- Allendale Middle School — 6–8 | Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org, 2026)
High Schools
- Northern Highlands Regional High School — 9–12 | Rating: 10/10 (GreatSchools.org, 2026)
For enrollment information and district details, visit Allendale Public School District.
Private Schools
- The Alpine School — PK–8 | Private, nonsectarian school serving the Pascack Valley area with a rigorous academic program. | Website: thealpineschool.org
Parochial / Religious Schools
- Our Lady of the Visitation School — Catholic | PK–8
Cooperative Programs
- Bergen County Academies Magnet School — One of the highest-rated public high schools in the nation, located in Hackensack. Allendale students can apply through the countywide admissions process for specialized STEM, arts, and business programs. | More info
Day Care & Early Childhood
- Allendale Early Learning Center — Infant–Pre-K | Community-based early childhood programs offered through the borough's recreation department.
School ratings are sourced from GreatSchools.org as of 2026 and may change. Verify current data directly with the school district or GreatSchools.org.
How Do You Get to NYC from Allendale?
Allendale has its own NJ Transit Bergen County Line station, providing direct rail service to Hoboken Terminal. The GW Bridge is a 35–45 minute drive off-peak, and NJ Transit bus routes serve the broader area from nearby stops.
NJ Transit Bergen County Line — Allendale Station
Direct service to Hoboken Terminal in approximately 30–40 minutes. From Hoboken, PATH trains connect to the World Trade Center in about 15 minutes, or NJ Transit continues to New York Penn Station. Trains run frequently during rush hours.
Driving via GW Bridge
Manhattan is approximately 35–45 minutes off-peak by car via Routes 17 and 4 to the George Washington Bridge. GW Bridge toll: $14.79 off-peak, $16.79 peak (E-ZPass). Rush hour traffic can push the commute to 60–90 minutes.
NJ Transit Bus Routes 164, 166, 167
NJ Transit bus routes serve the broader Allendale area, connecting to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Commute times range from 45–65 minutes depending on traffic.
Average Commute
Allendale residents average approximately 50–65 minutes door-to-door to Midtown Manhattan via train and PATH, or 45–75 minutes by car depending on traffic conditions.
What Are the Schools Like in Allendale?
Allendale public schools carry a 9/10 average rating, with Allendale Public Schools serving K–8 and Northern Highlands Regional High School serving grades 9–12 with a 10/10 GreatSchools rating.
Allendale Public Schools (K–8)
Hillside Elementary (K–2), Brookside Elementary (3–5), and Allendale Middle School (6–8) serve the borough's students with top-rated academics and strong community engagement.
Northern Highlands Regional High School
The regional high school serving Allendale and surrounding communities carries a 10/10 GreatSchools rating. Known for strong academics, competitive athletics, and extensive extracurricular offerings.
Bergen County Academies Magnet School
One of the highest-rated public high schools in the nation, located in Hackensack. Allendale students can apply through the countywide admissions process for specialized STEM, arts, and business programs.
Nearby Private Schools
The Alpine School (PK–8) and several parochial options in neighboring towns provide additional educational choices for families.
Allendale Public Library
A community library offering programs for all ages, from children's literacy story times to adult education and cultural events.
School ratings, when cited, are sourced from GreatSchools.org or Niche.com and are provided for informational purposes only. Verify current ratings directly with the relevant school district or rating source.
Where Are the Best Coffee Shops in Allendale?
Allendale's compact downtown features neighborhood cafés and bakeries, with additional specialty options in nearby Ramsey and Waldwick.
Café NONA
A neighborhood café on West Allendale Avenue serving specialty coffee, fresh pastries, and light breakfast and lunch fare. A community gathering spot for morning coffee.
Allendale Steakhouse Bar
The bar area at the Allendale Steakhouse serves cocktails and light fare in a classic setting, popular for after-dinner drinks and casual meetups.
Nearby Ramsey & Waldwick Cafés
Allendale residents frequently visit neighboring Ramsey's Main Street and Waldwick's downtown for additional café options, including Giovanna's Café and SOMA Café & Creperie.
Is Allendale Good for Pet Owners?
Allendale is pet-friendly with quiet residential streets, Crestwood Lake Park, and easy access to Darlington County Park's extensive trails. Veterinary services are available in neighboring towns.
Creskill Animal Hospital (nearby)
Full-service veterinary hospital in nearby Cresskill providing wellness exams, surgery, dental care, and emergency services.
Darlington County Park
A 134-acre county park just south of Allendale with hiking trails, sports fields, and wooded areas — popular with dog owners for longer walks and weekend outings.
Crestwood Lake Park
Allendale's signature park with a spring-fed lake, walking paths, and open green space ideal for leashed dog walks.
Pet Supply Shopping
Pet supply stores are available in nearby Ramsey, Paramus, and Mahwah, including chain retailers like PetSmart and Petco.
What Hospitals and Medical Services Are Near Allendale?
Hackensack University Medical Center, one of New Jersey's largest hospitals, is approximately 10 miles south. Englewood Hospital and Valley Hospital in Ridgewood are also accessible.
Hackensack University Medical Center
One of New Jersey's largest and most comprehensive hospitals, located approximately 10 miles south in Hackensack. A Level I Trauma Center with nationally ranked programs.
Valley Hospital (Ridgewood)
A 451-bed community hospital in nearby Ridgewood offering emergency care, surgical services, and specialty programs. Approximately 10 minutes from Allendale.
Englewood Hospital and Medical Center
Located about 12 miles south, this 287-bed community hospital provides emergency care, surgical services, and cardiac care.
Urgent Care & Primary Care
Primary care practices and urgent care centers are available along the Routes 17 and 202 corridors in neighboring Paramus, Ramsey, and Mahwah.
Pharmacies
CVS and Walgreens locations are accessible in Ramsey and Paramus. Local pharmacies also serve the community.
Where Do Residents Shop for Groceries in Allendale?
Allendale's grocery options include local markets and a nearby ACME in Ramsey, with larger supermarkets accessible in Paramus and Mahwah.
Local Markets & Delis
Allendale's commercial district has local markets and delis that serve daily grocery needs, including prepared foods and specialty items.
ACME Markets (Ramsey, nearby)
Full-service supermarket in neighboring Ramsey offering a complete selection of groceries, deli, bakery, and produce. About 5 minutes from Allendale.
ShopRite of Paramus (nearby)
A large ShopRite supermarket in Paramus, about 10 minutes away, offering one of the most comprehensive grocery selections in the area.
Whole Foods Market (Paramus, nearby)
The Whole Foods in Paramus offers organic and specialty items, about 10 minutes from Allendale.
Everyday Errands
Allendale's downtown includes dry cleaners, a post office, banks, and local shops for daily needs. The borough's compact size means most errands are a short walk or drive.
What Parks and Outdoor Spaces Does Allendale Offer?
Allendale features Crestwood Lake Park with its spring-fed lake, woodland trails, and access to Darlington County Park's 134 acres. The borough's parks serve as the heart of community life.
Crestwood Lake Park
Allendale's signature park featuring a spring-fed lake, playground, sports fields, and picnic areas. The lake is available for fishing and paddleboating in season.
Darlington County Park
A 134-acre Bergen County park just south of Allendale with hiking trails, sports fields, a disc golf course, and scenic wooded areas.
Nature Trail Park
A peaceful woodland trail system within the borough offering quiet escapes for nature walks and birdwatching through mature forested areas.
Borough Park
A neighborhood park with open green space, playground equipment, and recreation facilities. Home to community sports leagues and summer programs.
Walking & Biking
Allendale's tree-lined residential streets and compact layout make it excellent for walking and cycling. The borough maintains well-kept sidewalks throughout the residential core.
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The Mid-Summer Home Resilience Checklist
July and August bring our heaviest heatwaves and sudden, intense summer thunderstorms. Taking 30 minutes this weekend to run through this checklist can save you thousands in emergency repairs and keep your utility bills in check.
The HVAC & Airflow Triage
- Clear the Condenser: Go outside and check your main A/C unit. Trim back any bushes, tall grass, or branches so there is at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides.
- Wash the Fins: Turn off the power to the unit, take a garden hose (on a gentle setting), and wash the dust and pollen off the outside fins. It drastically improves efficiency.
- Swap the Filters: If you use standard 1-inch filters, change them every 30 days during July and August. A clogged filter forces the blower motor to work overtime, spiking your energy bill.
Summer Storm & Flood Prep
- The Post-Spring Gutter Check: Spring drops a lot of seeds, twigs, and pollen pods into your gutters. Clear them out now so summer storm water doesn’t overflow and rot your fascia boards.
- Check the Downspouts: Ensure your downspouts are actively pushing water at least 5 to 6 feet away from your foundation.
- Test the Sump Pump: If you have a basement, pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure the float switch triggers the pump before a storm hits.
Humidity & Moisture Control
- Run the Dehumidifier: If you have a basement or crawlspace, your dehumidifier should be running constantly. Aim to keep indoor humidity below 50%.
- Reverse Your Ceiling Fans: Make sure your ceiling fans are rotating counter-clockwise. This pushes cold air straight down, creating a wind-chill effect that lets you set the thermostat a few degrees higher.
Yard & Pest Defense
- Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in as little as a bottle cap of water. Walk your property and empty out unused planters, wheelbarrows, and birdbaths.
- Adjust Your Watering Schedule: Water your lawn between 4:00 AM and 8:00 AM. Watering at night leaves the grass wet for too long, leading to summer fungus and lawn disease.
Don't want to climb a ladder to check those gutters, or need an HVAC pro to do a tune-up? Head over to the Vetted Local Contacts section of this hub for a list of contractors we trust to answer their phones and do the job right.
The Summer "School's Out" Survival Guide
School's out and the kids are home — now what? Here's your practical, community-focused guide to keeping kids entertained all July without breaking the bank.
Splash Pads & Water Play
Nothing beats a splash pad on a 90° day. The good news — there are free spray parks scattered across Bergen County. Most run daily from late morning through early evening.
William T. Birch Park Splash Park
Fort Lee
A free spray park in the heart of Fort Lee — perfect for younger kids on hot days. Bring a towel and sunscreen.
Votee Park Splash Pad
Teaneck
Teaneck's popular splash pad at Votee Park is a go-to for families. Free, open all summer, and right next to the playground.
Polifly Park Splash Pad
Englewood
A cool water play area at Englewood's Polifly Park. Great for combining splash time with a trip to the nearby playground and sports fields.
Van Saun Park Splash Pad
Paramus
The sea-animal themed ADA-accessible splash pad at Van Saun County Park. Paramus's flagship family destination — right next to the Bergen County Zoo.
Palisades Park Spray Ground
Palisades Park
A compact but well-loved water play area for Palisades Park families. Free and open during summer hours.
Free Outdoor Movie Nights
Almost every town in Bergen County runs free movie nights in the park during July. Pack a blanket, grab popcorn, and let the kids run around until the film starts at dusk.
Movies & Music in the Park
Bergen County Parks
Bergen County runs a free summer series at Van Saun County Park (Paramus), Pascack Brook County Park (Westwood), and Riverside County Park (North Arlington). Films screen at dusk — bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Ridgewood Family Film Night
Ridgewood
Ridgewood's parks and recreation department typically organizes family movie nights in one of the village's tree-lined parks. Check the village calendar for confirmed dates.
Fort Lee Community Screenings
Fort Lee
Fort Lee's parks and recreation department runs occasional outdoor movie events during summer. Check the borough website or social media for the latest schedule.
Library Summer Reading Programs
BCCLS — Bergen County Cooperative Library System
Every BCCLS branch — Fort Lee, Leonia, Englewood, Palisades Park, Teaneck, Cliffside Park, Paramus, and dozens more — runs its own summer reading challenge. Kids sign up, log books, and earn prizes. It's free, educational, and gives kids a reason to keep reading all summer.
Rainy-Day Indoor Saves
When summer thunderstorms roll through Bergen County — and they will — these indoor spots keep the kids busy. Most are concentrated in the Paramus corridor, a blessing for anyone who wants to knock out rainy-day entertainment and errands in one trip.
Catch Air Indoor Playground
Paramus
A large indoor trampoline and play center. Great for burning energy on rainy days — toddler area separate from the big-kid zones.
BounceU
Paramus
Bounce houses, obstacle courses, and open-jump sessions. They run special family sessions during the summer.
Monster Mini Golf
Paramus
Indoor glow-in-the-dark mini golf — a hit with kids of all ages. Add arcade games for a full rainy-day outing.
Bowlero Fair Lawn
Fair Lawn
Modern bowling with lanes for all ages, plus arcade games and food. One of the best bowling options in Bergen County.
Bergen County Zoo
Paramus
A small, free zoo inside Van Saun Park — manageable for younger kids and perfect for a half-day outing when outdoor plans get rained out.
Free & Low-Cost Family Events
Summer doesn't have to mean expensive camps and day trips. These community programs are free or nearly free, and they're the kind of experiences that make kids actually love living in Bergen County.
BCCLS Summer Reading Challenge
The Bergen County Cooperative Library System runs summer reading programs at every branch — Fort Lee, Leonia, Englewood, Palisades Park, Teaneck, Cliffside Park, and beyond. Kids earn prizes for hitting reading milestones.
Bergen County Zoo Free Admission
The Bergen County Zoo at Van Saun Park is free to enter (small parking fee). Open daily in summer with animal encounters, a carousel, and a train ride.
Fort Lee Recreation Programs
Fort Lee's recreation department runs summer camps, sports clinics, and drop-in programs at borough parks. Many are free or low-cost for residents.
Leonia Public Library Events
Leonia's library branch offers free story times, craft sessions, and special author visits throughout the summer — all part of the BCCLS network.
Palisades Park Community Events
Palisades Park hosts community gatherings and family activities during the summer months through its recreation department.
Englewood Family Fun Days
Englewood often runs family-focused programming at its parks during summer — outdoor movies, craft days, and seasonal festivals.
"Families who live in these communities know — the quality of life here isn't just about the schools and the commute. It's about the free movie nights, the neighborhood splash pads, and the libraries that actually feel like community hubs."
Thinking About Allendale?
Top schools, train access, and genuine small-town charm — let's talk about what Allendale could look like for your family.
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Sources & Learn More — Allendale
- Borough of Allendale — Official Website
- Allendale Public Schools — NJ Dept. of Education
- NJ Transit Bergen County Line Schedules
- Northern Highlands Regional High School
- Hackensack University Medical Center
- Bergen County Parks & Recreation
- NJ Association of Realtors — Market Data
- GreatSchools.org — School Ratings & Reviews