Closter
Charming small-town downtown
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By Scott Selleck, Broker / Sales Associate, Keller Williams City Views Realty
NJ Real Estate Broker / Sales Associate #9236275. Licensure does not imply endorsement.
Keller Williams City Views Realty. Each office is independently owned and operated.
Cell (201) 970-3960 | Office (201) 592-8900
Last updated: June 2026
What Is It Like to Live in Closter, NJ?
Closter is a charming Bergen County borough of approximately 8,700 residents with median home prices of $1.15M-$1.65M. Known for its walkable downtown, and proximity to Route 9W and the Palisades Interstate Park, Closter offers an appealing combination of small-town character.
Closter sits in the northern reaches of Bergen County's Pascack Valley, a cluster of well-established suburban communities. The borough's downtown along Piermont Road and Closter Dock Road features a mix of local shops, restaurants, and everyday services that give the community a genuine small-town feel.
The housing stock is predominantly single-family homes, colonials, split-levels, and newer construction, on well-maintained lots that provide a sense of space without the estate-level acreage of neighboring Alpine. Closter strikes a balance between the ultra-affluent communities to its east and the more accessible boroughs to its south and west.
The Closter Nature Center, a beloved 4-acre facility on Ruckman Road, is a community anchor offering nature trails, wildlife observation, and year-round educational programs. Route 9W provides convenient regional access, and the Palisades Interstate Park is just minutes away for hiking and scenic overlooks. Browse Scott's current listings to see available homes in the Closter area.
What Do Homes Cost in Closter, NJ in 2026?
Median list prices from $1.15M to $1.65M. Colonials, split-levels, and newer construction on well-maintained lots.
How Long Is the Commute from Closter to NYC?
NJ Transit bus or drive to nearby rail stations. 50-65 min to Manhattan. Close to Route 9W and GW Bridge.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Closter, NJ?
Closter's dining scene centers along Piermont Road and Schraalenburgh Road, with a mix of Italian, American, and seafood restaurants that serve as community gathering spots. The selection pairs well with neighboring towns for expanded options.
Stern & Bow Restaurant
A popular American restaurant and bar on Schraalenburgh Road serving craft cocktails, burgers, and seasonal dishes in a stylish, industrial-chic setting. A favorite gathering spot for the community.
Lucio's
A well-regarded Italian restaurant on Piermont Road serving classic pasta dishes, seafood, and Italian specialties in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. A Closter institution.
Sear House
A seafood-focused restaurant on Piermont Road offering fresh catches, raw bar selections, and coastal-inspired dishes. Popular for dinner and weekend brunch.
Buon Gusto Restaurant
An Italian restaurant on Durie Avenue serving traditional Italian fare with a loyal local following. Classic dishes, family-style portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Closter's local restaurants pair well with dining options in neighboring Alpine, Cresskill, and Norwood for a wider variety of cuisines.
What Parks and Recreation Does Closter Offer?
Closter offers the beloved Closter Nature Center, community recreation fields, and convenient access to the Palisades Interstate Park via Route 9W. The borough's parks and trails serve as outdoor recreation anchors throughout the year.
Closter Nature Center
A beloved 4-acre nature center on Ruckman Road offering nature trails, wildlife observation, educational programs, and seasonal events. A gem for residents and nature enthusiasts with a 4.6/5 rating from visitors.
Closter Memorial Field
The borough's primary recreation field with sports facilities, playgrounds, and open green space. Hosts community sports leagues, summer camps, and outdoor events.
Palisades Interstate Park Access
Closter provides access to the Palisades Interstate Park via Route 9W, offering hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and the historic Alpine Approach Road along the Hudson River cliffs.
Closter Dock Road Parks
Green spaces along Closter Dock Road offering walking paths and recreational facilities for the community.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in Closter, NJ?
Closter hosts summer concerts, a seasonal farmers market, nature center programs, and holiday celebrations. The Closter Nature Center's year-round educational programming is a community highlight.
Closter Summer Concerts
Free outdoor concerts held in the borough's parks during summer months, featuring local musicians and community entertainment on warm evenings.
Closter Farmers Market
A seasonal farmers market with local produce, baked goods, artisanal products, and prepared foods from Bergen County vendors.
Nature Center Programs
The Closter Nature Center hosts year-round educational programs, nature walks, wildlife observation events, and seasonal celebrations for residents and nature enthusiasts.
Holiday Tree Lighting
An annual community celebration each December featuring the ceremonial tree lighting, holiday entertainment, and family activities in the downtown area.
How Do You Get to Manhattan from Closter, NJ?
Closter is served by NJ Transit bus routes and provides easy access to Route 9W for regional driving. Residents also drive to nearby rail stations for Pascack Valley Line service to Hoboken and Manhattan.
Closter's commute to Manhattan centers on a combination of bus service and driving. NJ Transit bus routes serve the borough, connecting to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in approximately 50-70 minutes depending on traffic and route.
Driving: Route 9W provides convenient regional access, with the George Washington Bridge approximately 20-25 minutes away. The bridge crossing adds 10-20 minutes off-peak, with total door-to-door commute times of 40-60 minutes. Route 4 is also accessible for drivers heading south toward Paramus and the New Jersey Turnpike.
Rail: Closter does not have its own train station, but residents drive to nearby stations, the Northvale station or Norwood station on the NJ Transit Main Line provides rail service to Hoboken Terminal, or the Anderson Street station in Hackensack (Pascack Valley Line) offers another option.
Property taxes in Closter are significant, reflecting the breadth of borough services. Homeowners should budget for taxes in the $18,000-$26,000+ range depending on assessed value.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Closter, NJ
What is Closter, NJ like?
How far is Closter from NYC?
What is the average home price in Closter?
Nearby Towns
Alpine
Ultra-affluent estate living on the Palisades with exceptional privacy.
Bergenfield
A welcoming borough with Bergen County access and community amenities.
Northvale
A quiet borough near the NY border with residential charm.
Norwood
A quiet borough with and a residential character.
Considering a move to Florida? Read our NJ to Florida Moving Guide for cost comparisons, moving process.
How Do You Get to NYC from Closter?
Closter is served by NJ Transit bus routes and provides easy access to Route 9W for regional driving. Residents also drive to nearby stations for Pascack Valley Line rail service to Hoboken and Manhattan.
NJ Transit Bus Routes
NJ Transit bus routes serve Closter, connecting to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Commute times range from 50-70 minutes depending on traffic and specific route.
Driving via Route 9W and GW Bridge
Route 9W provides convenient access to the George Washington Bridge, approximately 20-25 minutes from Closter. GW Bridge toll: $14.79 off-peak, $16.79 peak (E-ZPass, as of August 2026). Total door-to-door to Midtown: 40-60 minutes off-peak.
NJ Transit Rail (from nearby stations)
Drive to the Northvale or Norwood station (NJ Transit Main Line) or Anderson Street station in Hackensack (Pascack Valley Line) for rail service to Hoboken Terminal in approximately 30-40 minutes.
Average Commute
Closter residents average approximately 50-65 minutes door-to-door to Midtown Manhattan via bus or rail, or 40-60 minutes by car off-peak.
Where Are the Coffee Shops in Closter?
Closter's downtown features local coffee shops and bakeries along Piermont Road, with additional options in neighboring towns.
Stern & Bow Bar
While primarily a restaurant and bar, Stern & Bow on Schraalenburgh Road also serves excellent coffee and brunch items in a stylish setting.
Piermont Road Cafés
Closter's Piermont Road commercial strip features local cafés and bakeries serving the daily needs of the community, with a mix of traditional and specialty options.
Nearby Coffee Options
Residents also visit cafés in nearby Cresskill, Norwood, and Haworth for additional specialty coffee and bakery options.
Is Closter Good for Pet Owners?
Closter is very pet-friendly with the Closter Nature Center, community parks, and easy access to the Palisades Interstate Park trails. Veterinary services are available in neighboring towns.
Closter Nature Center
The beloved 4-acre nature center offers nature trails and wildlife observation areas where leashed dogs are welcome. A favorite spot for nature walks with pets.
Veterinary Services in Cresskill & Norwood
Full-service veterinary hospitals in neighboring Cresskill and Norwood provide wellness exams, surgery, dental care, and emergency services.
Palisades Interstate Park
Closter residents can access the Palisades Interstate Park via Route 9W for hiking with leashed dogs along the Hudson River cliffs.
Pet Supply Shopping
Pet supply stores are available in nearby Cresskill, Norwood, and Paramus, including chain retailers and local pet boutiques.
What Hospitals and Medical Services Are Near Closter?
Hackensack University Medical Center, one of New Jersey's largest hospitals, is approximately 8 miles south. Valley Hospital in Ridgewood and Englewood Hospital are also accessible.
Hackensack University Medical Center
One of New Jersey's largest and most comprehensive hospitals, approximately 8 miles south. A Level I Trauma Center with nationally ranked programs.
Valley Hospital (Ridgewood)
A 451-bed community hospital in Ridgewood, approximately 15 minutes from Closter, offering emergency care and comprehensive medical services.
Englewood Hospital and Medical Center
Located about 10 miles south, this 287-bed community hospital provides emergency care, surgical services, and specialty programs.
Urgent Care & Primary Care
Primary care practices and urgent care centers are available in Closter and neighboring Cresskill, Norwood, and Westwood.
Pharmacies
CVS and Walgreens locations are accessible in Closter and neighboring towns for convenient pharmacy services.
Where Do Residents Shop for Groceries in Closter?
Closter's grocery options include local markets along Piermont Road and a nearby ShopRite, with additional supermarkets in neighboring towns.
ShopRite of Closter
Full-service supermarket in Closter offering a complete selection of groceries, deli, bakery, and produce. One of the primary grocery destinations for borough residents.
Local Markets & Delis
Closter's downtown includes local markets, delis, and specialty food shops serving the community's everyday grocery needs.
Whole Foods Market (nearby)
Whole Foods in Englewood Cliffs offers organic and specialty items, about 10 minutes from Closter.
ACME Markets (Cresskill, nearby)
Supermarket in nearby Cresskill offering a complete grocery selection, about 5-7 minutes from Closter.
Everyday Errands
Closter's Piermont Road and Closter Dock Road corridors include dry cleaners, banks, pharmacies, and specialty shops for daily needs.
What Parks and Outdoor Spaces Does Closter Offer?
Closter features the beloved Closter Nature Center, community recreation fields, and convenient access to the Palisades Interstate Park via Route 9W.
Closter Nature Center
A beloved 4-acre nature center on Ruckman Road offering nature trails, wildlife observation, educational programs, and seasonal events. A gem for residents and nature enthusiasts.
Closter Memorial Field
The borough's primary recreation field with sports facilities, playgrounds, and open green space. Hosts community sports leagues, summer camps, and outdoor events.
Palisades Interstate Park
Accessible via Route 9W, the Palisades Interstate Park offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and the historic Alpine Approach Road along the Hudson River cliffs.
Closter Dock Road Parks
Green spaces along Closter Dock Road offering walking paths and recreational facilities for the community.
Walking & Biking
Closter's tree-lined residential streets and compact downtown layout make it excellent for walking and cycling. The borough maintains well-kept sidewalks throughout the residential core.
Own a local business in Closter? Get featured in our weekly Local Business Spotlight, submit here.
Renting in Closter
Northern Bergen's walkable downtown with a small-town village feel.
Rental Market Snapshot
What Renters Are Paying
| Unit Type | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,800, $2,200/mo |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,000, $2,500/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,500, $3,200/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,200, $4,000/mo |
Average rent across all unit types: approximately $2,200/mo. Closter offers competitive rents for a desirable northern Bergen location.
What You Get for That Rent
Closter is one of Bergen County's most walkable small towns. The downtown along Closter Dock Road has local restaurants, shops, and a village atmosphere. The rental market includes garden-style apartments, townhome rentals, and newer developments. Most buildings include parking, and the town's parks anchor community life.
New Jersey Is One of the Most Renter-Friendly States in the Country
Security Deposit Protection
New Jersey caps security deposits at 1.5 months' rent. Landlords must hold your deposit in a separate interest-bearing account, and all accrued interest belongs to you. When you move out, your deposit must be returned within 30 days with an itemized statement of any deductions.
Anti-Eviction Protections
New Jersey's Anti-Eviction Act requires landlords to demonstrate just cause to terminate a tenancy, even at the end of a lease. This means you cannot be non-renewed without reason.
Required Disclosures
Before signing a lease, your landlord must provide a Truth in Renting statement explaining your rights, the required notice period for rent increases, and the terms under which your deposit is held.
Source: New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Rent Security Deposit Act (N.J.S.A. 46:8-19 through 46:8-26)
Where Northern Bergen Feels Like Home
Closter is one of northern Bergen County's most charming small towns. The downtown along Closter Dock Road has a walkable village feel with local restaurants, cafes, and shops. The Closter Public Library is a community hub, and the town hosts regular events throughout the year.
The residential neighborhoods are tree-lined and quiet, with a mix of single-family homes and smaller apartment complexes. The Closter Nature Center and the town's parks offer outdoor recreation, and the community has a welcoming atmosphere.
For renters, Closter offers something rare in Bergen County: a genuine small-town village feel with walkable downtown access. The rents are competitive compared to neighboring towns, and the quality of life is hard to beat. If you want a quiet, charming community with a real sense of place, Closter delivers.
Scott Selleck knows Closter well. He can help you find the right neighborhood.
Commute Options for Renters
NJ Transit Bus 166/171
- → Route: Closter to Port Authority
- → Time: 40-55 minutes
- → Monthly pass: approximately $110
NJ Transit Bus 751/755
- → Route: Closter to Bergen County destinations
- → Time: 15-25 minutes
- → Monthly pass: approximately $110
Driving
- → Route: Route 9W or Palisades Interstate Parkway to GWB
- → Time: 15-20 minutes to GWB
- → Tolls: GWB $16 cash, $13.75 E-ZPass off-peak
- → Parking: Most buildings include parking
What It Actually Costs to Rent in Closter
Monthly Rent
Median $2,200/mo
for a typical 1-2 bedroom
Security Deposit
Capped at 1.5 months' rent
by NJ law
Utilities
Electric $100-$155/mo
gas $50-$70/mo, water $40-$55/mo
Internet
Comcast and Verizon Fios
$60-$90/mo
Parking
Most buildings include parking
Pet Costs
Varies by landlord
All figures are estimates based on current Closter market data as of August 2026.
Thinking About Closter?
Top, a charming downtown, and Palisades access, let's find the right home in Closter.
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