Paramus
Bergen County's retail capital with residential character
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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 Paramus, NJ?
Paramus is Bergen County's shopping capital, home to Garden State Plaza and Bergen Town Center. With approximately 27,000 residents and median home values of \$575K to \$740K, it offers residential convenience with excellent shopping, dining, and highway access.
Paramus is Bergen County's commercial powerhouse, a borough of roughly 26,500 residents that is home to some of the most visited shopping destinations on the East Coast. Garden State Plaza, Paramus Park, The Mall at Short Hills (nearby), and Bergen Town Center make this a retail mecca. But Paramus is more than shopping malls: it's a well-run borough with public, spacious residential neighborhoods, and excellent highway access.
One of Paramus's most distinctive features is its strict blue laws, which historically prohibited most non-essential retail businesses from opening on Sundays. While enforcement has relaxed in recent years, the tradition still shapes the borough's character and weekend rhythm. The residential areas are a mix of post-war ranches, split-levels, and expanded colonials on generous lots, with tree-lined streets that feel distinctly residential.
For commuters, Paramus benefits from its central location near Routes 4, 17, and the Garden State Parkway, along with frequent NJ Transit bus service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. The combination of shopping, and highway access makes Paramus a practical and popular choice for residents and professionals.
What Do Homes Cost in Paramus, NJ in 2026?
Median home values around $814K. A mix of ranches, colonials, and split-levels. Strong demand driven by location and retail access.
How Long Is the Commute from Paramus to NYC?
NJ Transit bus service (multiple routes) to Port Authority Bus Terminal. 3050 minutes. Easy access via Routes 4 and 17.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Paramus, NJ?
Grand Lux Cafe
An upscale-casual restaurant at Garden State Plaza offering an extensive menu of American and international dishes in an elegant setting.
Bonefish Grill
A popular seafood restaurant on From Road known for fresh fish preparations, cocktails, and a polished casual dining experience.
Houlihan's
A long-standing restaurant on Route 4 serving American classics, burgers, and cocktails in a comfortable neighborhood setting.
Battello
An Italian-inspired restaurant near the Paramus border featuring fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and an extensive wine list.
Paramus's dining scene centers around its major retail corridors, with a wide range of restaurants and eateries at and around the shopping centers.
What Parks and Recreation Does Paramus Offer?
Garden State Plaza
One of the largest shopping malls in the nation, featuring 300+ stores, dining options, and entertainment. A Paramus landmark.
Van Saun County Park
A 146-acre Bergen County park featuring a carousel, train ride, playgrounds, athletic fields, a fishing pond, and the Bergen County Zoo.
Liberty State Park (nearby)
Accessible by a short drive, offering stunning Manhattan skyline views, waterfront promenades, and ferry service to the Statue of Liberty.
Hurricane Hill Park
A community park with walking paths, sports fields, and playground equipment for community recreation.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in Paramus, NJ?
Paramus Farmers Market
Seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from Bergen County vendors.
Summer Concert Series
Free outdoor concerts at various parks throughout the summer, bringing live music to Paramus communities.
Annual 5K Run/Walk
A community charity race attracting runners and walkers of all ages through Paramus neighborhoods.
Holiday Tree Lighting
An annual community celebration marking the start of the winter season with festive activities and entertainment.
How Do You Get to Manhattan from Paramus, NJ?
Paramus does not have its own train station, but NJ Transit provides frequent express bus service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. Multiple bus routes serve the borough, with travel times typically between 30 and 50 minutes depending on traffic and departure point.
By car, Paramus is exceptionally well-connected via Routes 4, 17, and the Garden State Parkway. Driving to Midtown Manhattan typically takes 3050 minutes off-peak, though the Route 4 and GW Bridge corridor can be heavily congested during rush hours.
Nearby train stations in Ridgewood and Oradell (Pascack Valley Line) provide rail access for Paramus residents willing to drive a few minutes to board a train.
How Do You Get to NYC from Paramus?
Paramus doesn't have its own train station but is well-served by NJ Transit express bus service to the Port Authority, plus excellent highway access via Routes 4, 17, and the Garden State Parkway.
NJ Transit Express Bus to Port Authority
Multiple NJ Transit routes provide frequent service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Travel times typically 3050 minutes depending on traffic and departure point.
Driving via Route 4 and GW Bridge
Route 4 provides direct access to the GW Bridge corridor. Driving to Midtown takes 3050 minutes off-peak, though Route 4 can be heavily congested during rush hours.
Garden State Parkway Access
Paramus's location at the intersection of the Garden State Parkway and Routes 4/17 provides excellent highway access in all directions.
Nearby Rail Access
Train stations in Ridgewood and Oradell (Pascack Valley Line) are accessible for residents who prefer rail commuting.
Average Commute
Paramus residents average approximately 3550 minutes door-to-door to Midtown Manhattan, with express bus service being the most popular option.
Where Are the Coffee Shops in Paramus?
Paramus's caf๏ฟฝ scene centers around its major retail corridors, with options at Garden State Plaza, Paramus Park, and along the Route 17 and Route 4 corridors.
Garden State Plaza Caf๏ฟฝs
New Jersey's largest mall features multiple coffee shops and caf๏ฟฝs within the shopping center, from national chains to specialty options.
Paramus Park Dining
Paramus Park shopping center includes caf๏ฟฝ and coffee options alongside its retail and dining establishments.
Route 17 Corridor Caf๏ฟฝs
The Route 17 commercial corridor features numerous coffee shops and bakeries, from chain locations to independent operators.
Battello (nearby)
While primarily a restaurant, this Italian-inspired spot near the Paramus border serves excellent coffee and pastries.
Is Paramus Good for Pet Owners?
Paramus offers veterinary services along the Route 17 corridor and access to Van Saun County Park's 146 acres for outdoor activities with pets.
Veterinary Clinics (Route 17 corridor)
Multiple veterinary practices operate along the Route 17 corridor, providing wellness exams, surgery, and emergency services.
Van Saun County Park
The 146-acre Bergen County park with trails and open space is pleasant for leashed dog walks. The Bergen County Zoo is also located here.
Hurricane Hill Park
A community park with walking paths and sports fields suitable for casual dog walks.
Pet Supply Shopping
PetSmart, Petco, and other pet supply retailers are accessible along the Route 17 and Garden State Plaza corridors.
Pet Services
Grooming salons, dog walkers, and pet sitting services are available throughout the borough's commercial corridors.
What Hospitals and Medical Services Are Near Paramus?
The Valley Hospital in Paramus is the borough's anchor hospital, a comprehensive medical center. Hackensack University Medical Center is also nearby.
The Valley Hospital
A 450-bed hospital located in Paramus, one of Bergen County's premier medical facilities. Comprehensive emergency, specialty, and surgical care.
Hackensack University Medical Center
One of New Jersey's largest hospitals, about 5 miles west. A Level I Trauma Center with nationally ranked programs.
Urgent Care & Primary Care
Multiple primary care practices and urgent care centers operate along the Route 17 and Route 4 corridors.
Specialty Medical Offices
Paramus's commercial corridors house numerous medical offices, specialist clinics, and dental practices.
Pharmacies
CVS, Walgreens, and pharmacy sections at major retailers provide convenient prescription access throughout the borough.
Where Do Residents Shop for Groceries in Paramus?
Paramus is Bergen County's shopping capital with major grocery chains including Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, NetCost Market, and numerous supermarkets.
Trader Joe's (Paramus Park)
Popular specialty grocery known for affordable specialty and organic items. A Paramus staple.
NetCost Market (Route 4)
International supermarket with Eastern European, Asian, and American groceries with an extensive deli section.
ShopRite (nearby)
Full-service supermarket options in the broader Paramus area for complete grocery shopping.
Whole Foods (nearby)
Organic and specialty grocery options accessible in the broader Bergen County area.
Everyday Errands
Garden State Plaza, Paramus Park, and the Route 17 corridor provide everything from groceries to dry cleaners to pharmacies, a one-stop shopping destination.
What Parks and Outdoor Spaces Does Paramus Offer?
Paramus offers Van Saun County Park with the Bergen County Zoo, Hurricane Hill Park, and proximity to Liberty State Park for waterfront recreation.
Van Saun County Park
A 146-acre Bergen County park featuring a carousel, train ride, playgrounds, athletic fields, a fishing pond, and the Bergen County Zoo.
Hurricane Hill Park
A community park with walking paths, sports fields, and playground equipment for community recreation.
Liberty State Park (nearby)
Accessible by a short drive, offering Manhattan skyline views, waterfront promenades, and ferry service to the Statue of Liberty.
Garden State Plaza Grounds
The mall's grounds and surrounding green spaces provide walking areas, especially during warmer months.
Walking & Biking
Paramus's residential neighborhoods feature tree-lined streets suitable for walking and cycling, though the borough is primarily car-oriented.
Renting in Paramus
Bergen County's shopping capital with suburban space and transit access.
Rental Market Snapshot
What Renters Are Paying
| Unit Type | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,700 - $2,300/mo |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,900 - $2,800/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,200 - $3,300/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,000 - $4,500/mo |
Average rent across all unit types: approximately $2,800/mo. Paramus offers a range of options from older complexes to newer developments.
What You Get for That Rent
Paramus is one of Bergen County's most commercially vibrant towns, home to Garden State Plaza, Paramus Park, and a concentration of retail and corporate offices. The rental market includes garden-style apartments, condos, and townhome rentals. Most buildings include parking, and the Route 4 and Garden State Plaza corridor gives renters easy access to shopping, dining, and services.
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. Rent increases must also follow established notice requirements.
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. This disclosure is mandated by state law.
Source: New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Rent Security Deposit Act (N.J.S.A. 46:8-19 through 46:8-26)
Where Shopping Is a Sport and Suburban Life Is the Reward
Paramus is one of the most commercially vibrant towns in Bergen County. Garden State Plaza is one of the largest shopping malls on the East Coast, and the surrounding corridor has become a retail and dining destination that draws shoppers from across the region. For renters who value convenience and access to major retail, Paramus delivers.
The residential neighborhoods are quieter and more suburban than the commercial corridors. The tree-lined streets west of Route 17 have a mix of single-family homes and smaller apartment complexes. The Bergen County community is well-maintained, with parks, recreation facilities, and a public library system that serves the entire town.
For renters, Paramus offers something rare: major retail access, suburban space, and easy highway connectivity. The Route 4 and Garden State Plaza corridor gives you access to everything you need, while the residential neighborhoods provide the quiet and space that Bergen County is known for. If you want suburban convenience with major retail access, Paramus is worth a serious look.
Scott Selleck knows Paramus well. He can help you find the right building and neighborhood.
Commute Options for Renters
NJ Transit Bus 166/171
- → Route: Paramus to Port Authority
- → Time: 35-50 minutes
- → Monthly pass: approximately $110
NJ Transit Bus 751/753
- → Route: Paramus to Bergen County destinations
- → Time: 15-30 minutes
- → Monthly pass: approximately $110
Driving
- → Route: Route 4 to GWB or Garden State Parkway
- → 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 Paramus
Monthly Rent
Median $2,800/mo
for a typical 1-2 bedroom apartment
Security Deposit
Capped at 1.5 months' rent
by NJ law, held in escrow
Utilities
Electric $100-$155/mo
gas $50-$70/mo, water $40-$55/mo
Internet
Comcast and Verizon Fios
$60-$90/mo for standard plans
Parking
Most buildings include parking
typically one assigned space per unit
Pet Costs
Varies by landlord
some buildings allow pets with additional deposit
All figures are estimates based on current Paramus market data as of August 2026. Actual costs vary by building, unit size, and lease terms.
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