Old Tappan
A borough with estate-style homes
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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 Old Tappan, NJ?
Old Tappan is a borough of approximately 6,000 residents near the New York State border, known for its estate-style homes and residential character. With median home values of $950K-$1.45M+, it is a well-regarded Bergen County address.
Old Tappan is a Bergen County borough of approximately 6,000 residents in the Pascack Valley region near the New York State border. Known for its spacious estate-style homes and a residential atmosphere, Old Tappan is a well-regarded community in northern New Jersey.
The residential landscape features grand colonials, custom estates, and contemporary homes on large lots with mature landscaping and ample privacy.
Old Tappan has a low-density residential character with limited commercial development, relying on neighboring Norwood, Northvale, and the Closter area for shopping and dining. NJ Transit bus service provides connections to the Port Authority Bus Terminal, and the borough's location near the Garden State Parkway keeps it well-connected to the broader region.
What Do Homes Cost in Old Tappan, NJ in 2026?
Median $950K-$1.45M+. Estate-style homes on large lots. Premium pricing for privacy.
How Long Is the Commute from Old Tappan to NYC?
NJ Transit bus to Port Authority. Driving via GSP/Palisades. 50-65 min.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Old Tappan, NJ?
Bosfa Italian Restaurant
An Italian restaurant on Old Tappan Road serving classic pasta dishes, seafood, and traditional Italian fare in a warm setting.
Aurora Restaurant
A well-regarded Italian restaurant on Old Tappan Road offering refined Italian cuisine, handmade pasta, and a polished atmosphere.
Giulio's Restaurant (nearby)
A popular Italian restaurant in nearby Tappan, NY serving classic Italian-American dishes and pizza.
Joe and Joe (nearby)
A well-known pizzeria in nearby Pearl River, NY, serving classic New York-style pizza and Italian dishes.
Old Tappan's dining options are limited within the borough, with nearby Pearl River, NY and neighboring Bergen County towns offering a wider selection.
What Parks and Recreation Does Old Tappan Offer?
Old Tappan Borough Park
A community park with athletic fields, playgrounds, basketball courts, and open green space for recreation and community events.
Wood Dale County Park (nearby)
A serene Bergen County park with walking trails, fishing, and picnicking along the Woodcliff Lake reservoir.
Pascack Brook County Park (nearby)
A linear park with paved trails running along the Pascack Brook, connecting neighboring communities.
Tappan Zee Area (nearby)
The nearby Hudson River waterfront provides scenic walking paths and nature observation opportunities.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in Old Tappan, NJ?
Old Tappan Community Day
An annual community celebration featuring food vendors, live entertainment, and activities for all ages.
Independence Day Celebration
Annual Fourth of July festivities with community activities, live music, and evening celebrations.
Holiday Tree Lighting
A festive community gathering each December with seasonal refreshments and the official tree lighting ceremony.
Summer Concert Series
Live music performances in local parks during summer months, bringing neighbors together for evening entertainment.
How Do You Get to Manhattan from Old Tappan, NJ?
Old Tappan is served by NJ Transit bus routes that connect to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. The bus commute typically takes 50-65 minutes depending on traffic.
By car, Old Tappan is accessible via the Garden State Parkway and nearby Route 9W. The GW Bridge is approximately 25 minutes away. Driving to Midtown takes approximately 45-60 minutes off-peak.
Rail access is available from nearby Norwood, Closter, or Demarest stations on the Pascack Valley Line, providing service to Hoboken Terminal and connections to Penn Station via Secaucus Junction.
How Do You Get to NYC from Old Tappan?
Old Tappan is primarily car-dependent with NJ Transit bus service to the Port Authority. Nearby rail access is available on the Pascack Valley Line.
NJ Transit Bus to Port Authority
Bus routes serve Old Tappan with connections to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Commute times typically 50-65 minutes.
Pascack Valley Line (Norwood/Closter, nearby)
Nearby train stations provide rail service to Hoboken Terminal and Penn Station via Secaucus Junction.
Driving via Garden State Parkway
The Garden State Parkway provides efficient north-south access. Driving to Midtown takes approximately 45-60 minutes off-peak.
Average Commute
Old Tappan residents average approximately 55-70 minutes door-to-door to Midtown Manhattan via bus.
Where Are the Coffee Shops in Old Tappan?
Old Tappan has limited local dining and is minutes from Northvale and Closter restaurants.
Local Establishments
Small cafés and eateries serve the community in a quiet, residential setting.
Closter Town Center (nearby)
Neighboring Closter offers restaurants, cafés, and shopping just minutes away.
Is Old Tappan Good for Pet Owners?
Old Tappan is excellent for pet owners with large properties, low-traffic streets, and proximity to nature areas.
Nearby Veterinary Clinics
Veterinary practices in neighboring Norwood, Northvale, and Closter provide comprehensive pet care.
Borough Parks
Community parks with green space provide settings for leashed dog walks in a quiet residential setting.
Nearby Nature Areas
County parks and nature preserves provide walking trails for outdoor activities with pets.
Pet Supply Shopping
Pet supply stores are accessible in nearby Closter and Paramus.
What Hospitals and Medical Services Are Near Old Tappan?
Englewood Hospital and Hackensack University Medical Center are both accessible from Old Tappan.
Englewood Hospital
A community hospital about 8 miles south, providing emergency and specialty care.
Hackensack University Medical Center
One of New Jersey's largest hospitals, about 12 miles away. A Level I Trauma Center.
Primary Care
Primary care physicians are available in Old Tappan and neighboring communities.
Pharmacies
CVS and Walgreens are accessible in nearby Closter and Norwood.
Where Do Residents Shop for Groceries in Old Tappan?
Old Tappan has limited local retail and is minutes from major grocery shopping in Closter and Paramus.
Local Markets
Small markets and delis in the Old Tappan area serve daily grocery needs.
ShopRite (Closter, nearby)
Full-service supermarkets in nearby Closter provide complete grocery selections.
Everyday Errands
Old Tappan's small commercial area provides basic daily needs with larger shopping in neighboring Closter.
What Parks and Outdoor Spaces Does Old Tappan Offer?
Old Tappan offers borough parks and proximity to county parks and nature areas in the Pascack Valley.
Borough Parks
Community parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and open green space for community recreation.
Wood Dale County Park (nearby)
A serene county park with walking trails and fishing along the Woodcliff Lake reservoir.
Walking & Biking
Old Tappan's quiet, tree-lined residential streets make it excellent for walking and cycling.
Renting in Old Tappan
An affluent borough with lake access, top, and a quiet suburban feel.
Rental Market Snapshot
What Renters Are Paying
| Unit Type | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio | $2,200 - $2,700/mo |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,400 - $3,000/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,800 - $3,600/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,500 - $4,800/mo |
Average rent across all unit types: approximately $2,800/mo.
What You Get for That Rent
Old Tappan is a Bergen County borough. The rental market includes luxury townhomes, single-family rentals, and newer developments. The town is known for its large lots and lake access. Most properties include driveway or garage parking.
Renter's Rights in New Jersey
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)
Affluent Suburban Living With a Quiet Charm
Old Tappan is a small Bergen County borough. The community is known for its large lots, quiet streets, and a level of privacy that is rare so close to Manhattan. The Old Tappan lake community is one of the more exclusive in the state.
The town's public, low density, and quiet streets make it a magnet for families and professionals who want space without sacrificing access to the city. The residential neighborhoods are tree-lined and well-maintained, with a mix of single-family homes and luxury townhome developments.
For renters, Old Tappan offers something rare in Bergen County: luxury properties with acreage and privacy. The rental market is smaller and more exclusive than other Bergen County towns, but the quality of life is unmatched. If you want a prestigious address with space, nature, and top, Old Tappan delivers.
Scott Selleck knows Old Tappan well. He can help you find the right property and neighborhood.
Commute Options for Renters
NJ Transit Bus 166/171
- → Route: Old Tappan to Port Authority
- → Time: 40-55 minutes
- → Monthly pass: approximately $110
NJ Transit Train (from nearby Westwood/Oradell)
- → Route: To Hoboken
- → Time: 45-55 minutes
- → Monthly pass: approximately $150
Driving
- → Route: Route 17 or Garden State Parkway to GWB
- → Time: 20-30 minutes to GWB
- → Tolls: GWB $16 cash, $13.75 E-ZPass off-peak
- → Parking: Most properties include driveway or garage
What It Actually Costs to Rent in Old Tappan
Monthly Rent
Median $2,800/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 available
$60-$90/mo
Parking
Most properties include
driveway or garage parking
Pet Costs
Varies by landlord
Check individual lease terms
All figures are estimates based on current Old Tappan market data as of August 2026. Actual costs vary by unit type, building, and lease terms.
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