Ho-Ho-Kus
A quiet, affluent borough with tree-lined streets and top-rated schools
By Scott Selleck â Licensed NJ/FL Real Estate Agent | 32+ Years in Bergen & Hudson Counties | The Selleck Group / KW City Views Realty
Last updated: July 2026
What Is It Like to Live in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ?
Ho-Ho-Kus is a small, affluent borough in northern Bergen County known for its quiet residential character, excellent schools, and a walkable downtown lined with local shops and restaurants. With approximately 4,200 residents and median home values of $700K to $900K+, it offers a serene, community-oriented lifestyle.
Ho-Ho-Kus is one of Bergen County's most charming small boroughs, home to roughly 4,200 residents who value its peaceful, tree-lined streets and tight-knit community atmosphere. The borough is centered around a walkable downtown along Franklin Turnpike and Sycamore Avenue, where local restaurants, cafés, and specialty shops give it a genuine small-town feel.
The real estate market reflects Ho-Ho-Kus's desirability â median home prices range from $700K to $900K+, with a mix of colonials, Tudors, and contemporary homes set on generous lots. The Ho-Ho-Kus School District serves students in grades Kâ8, and the borough's students attend Northern Highlands Regional High School in neighboring Allendale, consistently rated among the top public high schools in New Jersey. School ratings are provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered an endorsement of any school or district.
The borough's dining scene features the historic Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern, a community gathering spot housed in an 18th-century building, alongside newer establishments like Graze Brunch Kitchen and Alt Eats Cafe. With its blend of heritage, schools, and a walkable village character, Ho-Ho-Kus represents one of Bergen County's most distinctive residential communities.
Schools Serving Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ
Ho-Ho-Kus School District (Kâ8) feeds into Northern Highlands Regional High School, rated among the top high schools in Bergen County. School ratings are provided for informational purposes only.
What Do Homes Cost in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ in 2026?
Median prices $700Kâ$900K+. Colonials, Tudors, and contemporary homes on spacious, tree-lined lots.
How Long Is the Commute from Ho-Ho-Kus to NYC?
NJ Transit bus service to Port Authority. 50â65 min. Nearby NJ Transit train access in Ridgewood and Glen Rock.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ?
Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern
A historic landmark restaurant at 1 East Franklin Turnpike, serving contemporary American cuisine in a beautifully restored 18th-century building. A beloved community gathering spot.
Restaurant A (Formally Albert's)
A charming café and restaurant at 4 Sycamore Avenue offering a welcoming atmosphere, weekend brunch, and seasonal dishes in the heart of Ho-Ho-Kus.
Graze Brunch Kitchen
A popular brunch destination at 611 North Maple Avenue known for creative brunch dishes, artisan coffee, and a bright, modern atmosphere.
Garbo's Italian Deli & Pizza
A beloved local deli at 7 Sheridan Avenue serving authentic Italian sandwiches, pizza, and deli classics. A go-to for quick, quality meals.
Tojo Restaurant
A Japanese restaurant at 5 North Franklin Turnpike offering sushi, hibachi, and other Japanese favorites in a clean, welcoming setting.
Alt Eats Cafe
A café and bakery on North Maple Avenue offering specialty coffee, pastries, and light fare â a perfect spot for a casual morning stop.
Ho-Ho-Kus's dining scene centers around Franklin Turnpike and Sycamore Avenue, blending a historic inn, a beloved deli, and contemporary brunch and café spots.
What Parks and Recreation Does Ho-Ho-Kus Offer?
Van Neste Square Memorial Park
The borough's central park featuring open green space, memorials, and a charming town center atmosphere. A focal point for community gatherings and seasonal events.
Memorial Park at Borough Hall
A well-maintained community park with playground facilities and open fields, popular with families and for organized youth sports programs.
Saddle River County Park (nearby)
A sprawling county park just minutes away offering hiking and biking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and the Wild Duck Pond â one of Bergen County's premier outdoor destinations.
Graydon Pool (nearby, Ridgewood)
A natural spring-fed swimming area in adjacent Ridgewood, popular with Ho-Ho-Kus families during the summer months. A unique Bergen County amenity.
Campgaw Mountain Reservation (nearby)
A Bergen County park about 15 minutes north offering hiking trails, a reservoir, and winter skiing at Campgaw Mountain â great for year-round outdoor recreation.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ?
Ho-Ho-Kus Farmers Market
A seasonal farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from Bergen County vendors.
Holiday Tree Lighting
An annual community celebration at Van Neste Square with caroling, festivities, and the official lighting of the borough's holiday tree.
Spring Street Fair
A community fair with local vendors, food, and family activities that brings the borough together each spring along the downtown corridors.
Ho-Ho-Kus Environmental Commission Events
Educational and volunteer programs focused on local conservation, tree planting, and environmental stewardship throughout the year.
How Do You Get to Manhattan from Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ?
Ho-Ho-Kus does not have its own train station but is served by NJ Transit bus routes connecting to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. Travel times typically range from 50 to 65 minutes depending on traffic and the specific route taken.
By car, Ho-Ho-Kus offers convenient access to Route 17, Interstate 287, and the Garden State Parkway. The George Washington Bridge is reachable via Route 17 to Route 4 and the Palisades. Driving to Midtown Manhattan takes approximately 35â50 minutes off-peak.
Nearby train stations in Ridgewood (NJ Transit Main/Bergen County Line) and Glen Rock (NJ Transit Main/Pascack Valley Line) provide rail options for residents who prefer to drive a few minutes to catch a train to Hoboken or Penn Station.
Ho-Ho-Kus — Schools & Education
Schools serving the Ho-Ho-Kus area span public, private, parochial, and early childhood options across multiple grade levels.
Public Schools
The Ho-Ho-Kus School District serves this community. Schools in the district include:
Elementary Schools
- Ho-Ho-Kus Public School — Kâ5
Middle Schools
- Ho-Ho-Kus Public School (Middle) — 6â8
High Schools
- Northern Highlands Regional High School — 9â12
For enrollment information and district details, visit Ho-Ho-Kus School District.
Private Schools
- Dwight-Englewood School — Pre-Kâ12 | Independent day school in nearby Englewood. | Website: dwight-englewood.org
Cooperative Programs
- Bergen County Academies Magnet School — Accessible through countywide admissions. | More info
Day Care & Early Childhood
- Ho-Ho-Kus Early Learning — InfantâPre-K | Early childhood programs through local providers.
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 Ho-Ho-Kus?
Ho-Ho-Kus doesn't have its own train station but is served by NJ Transit bus routes to Port Authority. Nearby train stations in Ridgewood and Glen Rock provide rail options. The borough's central location in northern Bergen County offers multiple commute routes.
NJ Transit Bus to Port Authority
Bus routes run through Ho-Ho-Kus along Franklin Turnpike and nearby corridors, connecting to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Travel times typically 50â65 minutes depending on traffic.
Driving via Route 17 and GW Bridge
Route 17 provides access to Route 4 and the George Washington Bridge. The GW Bridge is approximately 20â25 minutes off-peak. GW Bridge toll: $14.79 off-peak, $16.79 peak (E-ZPass).
Nearby Rail Access â Ridgewood Station
The Ridgewood NJ Transit station is about 5 minutes away, providing Main Line and Bergen County Line service to Hoboken and Penn Station via Secaucus Junction.
Nearby Rail Access â Glen Rock Station
The Glen Rock NJ Transit station (Main Line or Pascack Valley Line) is about 7 minutes away, offering additional rail options to Hoboken and Penn Station.
Average Commute
Ho-Ho-Kus residents average approximately 50â65 minutes door-to-door to Midtown Manhattan, with train commuters from Ridgewood typically arriving in 55â70 minutes including the transfer.
What Are the Schools Like in Ho-Ho-Kus?
Ho-Ho-Kus School District serves students in grades Kâ8, with Northern Highlands Regional High School (in Allendale) serving grades 9â12. The schools are consistently well-rated in Bergen County.
Northern Highlands Regional High School
Comprehensive public high school serving Ho-Ho-Kus and Allendale students in grades 9â12. Known for strong academics, AP offerings, and competitive athletics. Consistently ranked among the top high schools in New Jersey.
Ho-Ho-Kus School District (Kâ8)
The borough's own school district serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade in a small, community-oriented setting with favorable student-to-teacher ratios.
Bergen County Academies
The magnet high school (ranked by U.S. News & World Report, 2024) is accessible to Ho-Ho-Kus students through countywide admissions for specialized programs.
Nearby Private Schools
Dwight-Englewood School (private, coed) in Englewood and other independent schools in neighboring communities provide additional choices.
Ho-Ho-Kus Public Library
A community library offering programs for all ages, from children's literacy 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 Ho-Ho-Kus?
Ho-Ho-Kus's downtown features a mix of charming cafés, a historic inn, and specialty food shops along Franklin Turnpike and Sycamore Avenue.
Alt Eats Cafe
A café and bakery on North Maple Avenue offering specialty coffee, pastries, and light fare. A pleasant spot for a casual morning stop.
Graze Brunch Kitchen
A popular brunch destination at 611 North Maple Avenue known for creative brunch dishes and artisan coffee in a bright, modern atmosphere.
Garbo's Italian Deli & Pizza
A beloved local deli at 7 Sheridan Avenue serving authentic Italian sandwiches, pizza, and deli classics. Great for a quick, quality lunch.
Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern
The historic inn at 1 East Franklin Turnpike also serves coffee and lighter fare alongside its full dinner menu â worth visiting for the atmosphere alone.
Is Ho-Ho-Kus Good for Pet Owners?
Ho-Ho-Kus is pet-friendly with quiet residential streets, nearby county parks, and veterinary services in neighboring Ridgewood and Allendale.
Nearby Veterinary Clinics
Veterinary services are available in neighboring Ridgewood, Allendale, and Glen Rock. Bergen Veterinary Hospital and Ridgewood Animal Hospital are within 10 minutes.
Saddle River County Park (nearby)
A sprawling county park just minutes away with hiking and biking trails, sports fields, and the Wild Duck Pond. A great outdoor destination for dog owners.
Van Neste Square Memorial Park
The borough's central park with open green space â pleasant for casual walks with leashed dogs through the charming downtown area.
Campgaw Mountain Reservation (nearby)
A Bergen County park about 15 minutes north with hiking trails through wooded terrain â ideal for active dog owners seeking more adventurous outings.
Pet Supply Shopping
Pet supply stores are available in nearby Ridgewood, Paramus, and Glen Rock, including chain retailers and local boutiques.
What Hospitals and Medical Services Are Near Ho-Ho-Kus?
Valley Hospital in nearby Ridgewood is Ho-Ho-Kus's closest major hospital, about 5 minutes away. Bergen Regional Medical Center and Hackensack University Medical Center are also accessible.
Valley Hospital (Ridgewood)
Located about 5 minutes east, this 450+ bed hospital is part of Hackensack Meridian Health and provides emergency care, surgical services, and comprehensive medical specialties.
Bergen Regional Medical Center (nearby)
A 670-bed hospital in Paramus, about 10 minutes away, offering emergency care and medical services.
Hackensack University Medical Center
One of New Jersey's largest hospitals, about 15 minutes west. A Level I Trauma Center with nationally ranked programs.
Primary Care
Primary care physicians are available in Ho-Ho-Kus and neighboring Ridgewood and Glen Rock.
Pharmacies
CVS and Walgreens are accessible in nearby Ridgewood and Glen Rock for convenient pharmacy needs.
Where Do Residents Shop for Groceries in Ho-Ho-Kus?
Ho-Ho-Kus's small-town character means grocery shopping centers around nearby Ridgewood and Glen Rock, with full-service supermarkets and specialty markets within a short drive.
ShopRite of Fair Lawn (nearby)
Full-service supermarket in Fair Lawn, about 10 minutes south. Complete grocery selection with deli, bakery, and produce sections.
Stop & Shop (Glen Rock)
Supermarket in nearby Glen Rock providing a convenient grocery option for Ho-Ho-Kus residents.
Trader Joe's (Paramus, nearby)
Popular specialty grocery at Paramus Park, about 15 minutes west. Known for affordable specialty items.
Garbo's Italian Deli
Local deli on Sheridan Avenue for quick sandwiches, specialty Italian items, and prepared foods.
Everyday Errands
Ho-Ho-Kus's compact downtown has local shops, delis, and specialty stores. Larger shopping is available in nearby Ridgewood, Paramus, and Glen Rock.
What Parks and Outdoor Spaces Does Ho-Ho-Kus Offer?
Ho-Ho-Kus features a charming central park and is minutes from Saddle River County Park, one of Bergen County's premier outdoor recreation areas.
Van Neste Square Memorial Park
The borough's central park featuring open green space, memorials, and a town center atmosphere. A focal point for community gatherings.
Saddle River County Park (nearby)
A sprawling county park with hiking and biking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and the Wild Duck Pond â one of Bergen County's premier outdoor destinations.
Campgaw Mountain Reservation (nearby)
A Bergen County park about 15 minutes north with hiking trails, a reservoir, and winter skiing at Campgaw Mountain.
Graydon Pool (nearby, Ridgewood)
A natural spring-fed swimming area in adjacent Ridgewood, popular with Ho-Ho-Kus families during summer.
Walking & Biking
Ho-Ho-Kus's tree-lined residential streets and proximity to county parks make it excellent for walking, jogging, and cycling. The borough's compact size keeps destinations close.
Who Should Consider Ho-Ho-Kus?
Families
Ho-Ho-Kus School District (Kâ8) feeds into Northern Highlands Regional High School, consistently rated among the top high schools in New Jersey. The small class sizes and community-oriented setting are ideal for families.
NYC Commuters
NJ Transit bus service to Port Authority in 50â65 min. Nearby train stations in Ridgewood and Glen Rock (5â7 min drive) provide rail access to Hoboken and Penn Station.
NJ-to-FL Movers
Selling a Ho-Ho-Kus home and relocating to Florida? Scott is licensed in both states and can manage your NJ sale while connecting you with trusted FL agents.
Move-Up Buyers
At $700Kâ$900K+, Ho-Ho-Kus attracts families upgrading from starter homes. Spacious colonials, Tudors, and contemporary homes on tree-lined lots.
Empty Nesters
Ho-Ho-Kus's quiet, walkable character and excellent location make it attractive for downsizers who want to stay in Bergen County with less maintenance.
Investors
The borough's small size, top schools, and limited inventory keep demand consistently strong. Properties here hold value well in any market cycle.
Key Takeaways About Ho-Ho-Kus
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Ho-Ho-Kus is a small, affluent Bergen County borough with approximately 4,200 residents, known for its quiet residential character, tree-lined streets, and walkable downtown.
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Median home prices range from $700K to $900K+, with a mix of colonials, Tudors, and contemporary homes on spacious lots.
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The Ho-Ho-Kus School District serves grades Kâ8, with Northern Highlands Regional High School serving grades 9â12 â consistently ranked among New Jersey's top public high schools.
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The commute involves NJ Transit bus service (50â65 minutes to Port Authority) or driving to nearby Ridgewood or Glen Rock train stations for rail access.
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The walkable downtown along Franklin Turnpike features the historic Ho-Ho-Kus Inn, local cafés, and specialty shops â a genuine small-town village atmosphere.
What Life Is Really Like in Ho-Ho-Kus
Ho-Ho-Kus is one of Bergen County's smallest and most charming boroughs, where tree-lined streets, spacious lots, and a walkable downtown create a genuine small-town atmosphere just 30 miles from Manhattan.
The real estate here reflects the borough's desirability: median home prices of $700K to $900K+ mean well-maintained colonials, Tudors, and contemporary homes on generous lots. It's the kind of neighborhood where kids ride bikes and neighbors know each other.
The dining scene is intimate but quality. The Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern occupies a beautifully restored 18th-century building, Graze Brunch Kitchen draws weekend crowds, and Garbo's Italian Deli is a local institution. It's not a restaurant destination â it's a residential community that happens to have excellent food.
What makes Ho-Ho-Kus special is the combination of schools, character, and convenience. Northern Highlands Regional High School is consistently among the best in New Jersey, the downtown has a genuine village feel, and you're minutes from Ridgewood's restaurants and shops. This is Bergen County living at its most refined.
Expert Market Insight
What Scott Selleck Is Seeing in 2026
In 2026, Ho-Ho-Kus remains one of Bergen County's most sought-after small boroughs for families who prioritize schools and community character. The borough's tiny size means inventory is always limited â when a home comes on the market, it draws serious attention. Proximity to Ridgewood's dining and shopping, combined with Northern Highlands' academic reputation, keeps demand consistently strong. For NJ-to-FL movers, these well-maintained homes typically command solid sale prices that fund the Florida transition nicely.
Scott Selleck
32+ Years in Bergen & Hudson Counties · The Selleck Group / KW City Views Realty
Frequently Asked Questions About Ho-Ho-Kus
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Scott Selleck | The Selleck Group | Keller Williams City Views Realty
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Sources & Learn More — Ho-Ho-Kus
- Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus â Official Website
- Ho-Ho-Kus School District â NJ Dept. of Education
- NJ Transit Bus Schedules & Route Maps
- Northern Highlands Regional High School
- Valley Hospital â Hackensack Meridian Health
- Bergen County Parks & Recreation
- NJ Association of Realtors â Market Data
- GreatSchools.org â School Ratings & Reviews
Nearby Towns
Ridgewood
Bergen County's iconic village downtown.
Waldwick
Charming borough with train access.
Midland Park
Quiet residential community with village character.
Saddle River
Estate-lined borough with rural character.
Considering a move to Florida? Read our NJ to Florida Moving Guide for cost comparisons, moving process, and school districts.