Ridgewood
A vibrant village with small-town charm and big-city access
Want to listen? Here's the summary:
Copy the summary, open Google Translate, paste it in, and click the speaker icon to listen in any language.
For clearer playback, download the free Google Translate app (iOS or Android).
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: August 21, 2026
What Is It Like to Live in Ridgewood, NJ?
Ridgewood is one of Bergen County's most walkable villages, known for its walkable downtown serving the community. With approximately 26,000 residents and median home values of \$780K to \$980K, it offers village-style living with a vibrant downtown.
Ridgewood is a well-known community in Bergen County, and for good reason. The village combines a vibrant, walkable downtown with tree-lined residential streets and historic architecture. It has the feel of a New England village transplanted to the banks of the Saddle River, a place where people know their neighbors and the downtown bustles with independent shops, caf๏ฟฝs, and restaurants.
With approximately 127 acres of dedicated parkland and an extensive network of walking paths, Ridgewood is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The downtown, centered around Van Neste Square, hosts community events year-round, from farmers markets to art shows to seasonal celebrations. Residents enjoy active civic organizations and a downtown that genuinely rivals what you'd find in much larger cities.
The combination of local character, walkability, and Manhattan access makes Ridgewood one of the most competitive real estate markets in the state.
What Do Homes Cost in Ridgewood, NJ in 2026?
Median home prices range from $990K to $1.3M+. Historic colonials and Tudors dominate the market with strong appreciation.
How Long Is the Commute from Ridgewood to NYC?
NJ Transit Main/Bergen County Line to Hoboken or Secaucus Junction. Express buses also available to Port Authority.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Ridgewood, NJ?
Steel Wheel Tavern
A beloved gastropub on North Broad Street with craft cocktails, elevated bar fare, and a lively atmosphere. A Ridgewood staple for date nights and weekend gatherings.
White Maple Caf๏ฟฝ
A popular local caf๏ฟฝ on East Ridgewood Avenue known for its artisan sandwiches, fresh pastries, and specialty coffee. Popular with locals for a leisurely brunch.
Sola Osteria
An elegant Italian bistro on South Broad Street offering seasonal dishes, handmade pasta, and an impressive wine list in a warm, inviting setting.
Park West Tavern
A sophisticated tavern on Oak Street with a refined menu of American classics, craft beers, and weekend brunch. Known for its upscale casual vibe.
Ridgewood's downtown dining scene features a mix of upscale bistros, casual caf๏ฟฝs, and ethnic cuisines, all within easy walking distance of the train station.
What Parks and Recreation Does Ridgewood Offer?
Graydon Pool
A unique 8-acre natural spring-fed pond and beach that serves as Ridgewood's beloved summer swimming spot. One of the last natural swimming areas in Bergen County.
Ridgewood Duck Pond
A scenic park along the Saddle River with walking paths, a duck pond, and picnic areas, a year-round favorite for residents.
Saddle River County Park
A multi-use park with paved paths for walking and cycling, athletic fields, and playgrounds stretching along the Saddle River.
Veterans Memorial Park
A central green space with memorials, benches, and large canopy trees, ideal for a quiet afternoon walk through the heart of the village.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in Ridgewood, NJ?
Ridgewood Farmers Market
Weekly market running spring through fall at Ridgewood Train Station, featuring local produce, baked goods, artisanal products, and food vendors.
Art in the Park
Annual juried art show held at Van Neste Square, showcasing fine art and crafts from regional artists. One of Ridgewood's signature community events.
Ridgewood Halloween Parade
A beloved community tradition drawing hundreds of costumed residents through the downtown area each October.
Holiday Walk-Through & Village Lighting
The downtown comes alive with festive lights, carolers, and shop visits as Ridgewood kicks off the winter season.
How Do You Get to Manhattan from Ridgewood, NJ?
Ridgewood is served by the NJ Transit Main Line and Bergen County Line, with the Ridgewood Train Station located in the heart of the downtown. Trains connect to Hoboken Terminal, where you can transfer to PATH trains for Midtown Manhattan, or connect at Secaucus Junction for direct service to Penn Station. Total commute time is typically 5565 minutes door-to-door.
Express bus service via NJ Transit and Coach USA provides a direct route to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown, often faster than the train during rush hours. Routes include the 171 and 175 bus lines.
By car, Ridgewood is accessible via Route 17 and the Garden State Parkway. Driving to Midtown Manhattan typically takes 4560 minutes off-peak, though rush hour can push that significantly higher.
How Do You Get to NYC from Ridgewood?
Ridgewood is served by NJ Transit's Main Line and Bergen County Line from the historic Ridgewood Train Station, with a 30-minute ride to Hoboken Terminal and connections to Penn Station. Express buses also run to the Port Authority.
NJ Transit Main Line & Bergen County Line
Trains from the Ridgewood Station connect to Hoboken Terminal (approximately 30 minutes) and Penn Station via Secaucus Junction. The historic station in the heart of the downtown is one of Bergen County's most active transit hubs.
Express Bus to Port Authority
NJ Transit and Coach USA express buses provide direct service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal, often faster than the train during rush hours. Routes include the 171 and 175.
Driving via Route 17
Route 17 provides highway access to the GW Bridge and Lincoln Tunnel corridors. Driving to Midtown takes approximately 45-60 minutes off-peak.
Secaucus Junction Transfer
Transfer at Secaucus Junction for direct NJ Transit service to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan, avoiding the PATH transfer.
Average Commute
Ridgewood residents average approximately 55-65 minutes door-to-door to Midtown Manhattan via train, with express bus riders often achieving faster times.
Where Are the Coffee Shops in Ridgewood?
Ridgewood's walkable downtown features cafรฉs and bakeries along East Ridgewood Avenue and North Broad Street, from artisan coffee shops to beloved brunch spots.
White Maple Cafรฉ
A local cafรฉ on East Ridgewood Avenue known for artisan sandwiches, fresh pastries, and specialty coffee. Popular with locals for a leisurely brunch.
Steel Wheel Tavern
A beloved gastropub on North Broad Street that also serves excellent coffee and brunch. Craft cocktails and elevated bar fare in a lively atmosphere.
Downtown Ridgewood Cafรฉs
The walkable downtown features several independent coffee shops and bakeries, each with its own character. The village's cafรฉ culture rivals much larger cities.
Park West Tavern
A sophisticated tavern on Oak Street with great coffee, weekend brunch, and a refined casual atmosphere. A popular gathering spot.
Van Neste Square Area
The area around Van Neste Square has multiple cafรฉs and bakeries within steps of each other, making it easy to explore and find your favorite spot.
Is Ridgewood Good for Pet Owners?
Ridgewood is excellent for pet owners with multiple veterinary clinics, the Saddle River County Park trails, and a walkable downtown perfect for daily dog walks.
Ridgewood Veterinary Hospital
Full-service veterinary hospital providing wellness exams, surgery, dental care, and emergency services. A trusted local practice for the community's pets.
Nearby Veterinary Clinics
Additional veterinary options in neighboring Glen Rock, Paramus, and Fair Lawn provide comprehensive pet care within minutes.
Saddle River County Park
A multi-use park with paved paths along the Saddle River, perfect for long dog walks. The trail system stretches through several communities.
Graydon Pool & Duck Pond Areas
The areas around Graydon Pool and the Ridgewood Duck Pond offer pleasant walking routes with green space and water features.
Pet Supply Shopping
Pet supply stores are available in nearby Paramus (PetSmart, Petco) and along the Route 17 corridor. Local pet boutiques also serve the community.
What Hospitals and Medical Services Are Near Ridgewood?
The Valley Hospital in nearby Paramus is Ridgewood's closest major hospital, a comprehensive medical center providing emergency and specialty care. Hackensack University Medical Center is also accessible.
The Valley Hospital (Paramus)
Located in neighboring Paramus, this 450-bed hospital is one of Bergen County's premier medical facilities. Provides emergency services, cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and comprehensive specialty care.
Hackensack University Medical Center
One of New Jersey's largest hospitals, about 10 miles west. A Level I Trauma Center with nationally ranked programs.
Englewood Hospital
Located about 10 miles south, providing emergency care, surgical services, and specialty programs.
Urgent Care & Primary Care
Multiple primary care practices and urgent care centers operate in downtown Ridgewood and along the Route 17 corridor.
Pharmacies
CVS and Walgreens locations in the downtown area and along Route 17 provide convenient pharmacy access.
Where Do Residents Shop for Groceries in Ridgewood?
Ridgewood's walkable downtown includes local markets, while nearby Paramus offers major grocery chains including Trader Joe's and Whole Foods.
ShopRite (Paramus, nearby)
Full-service supermarket in Paramus, about 10 minutes away. Complete grocery selection with deli, bakery, and produce.
Trader Joe's (Paramus, nearby)
Popular specialty grocery at Paramus Park, known for affordable specialty and organic items. About 10 minutes away.
Whole Foods Market (nearby)
Located in the broader Bergen County area, offering organic produce and specialty items.
Local Markets & Delis
Downtown Ridgewood has local delis, bakeries, and specialty food shops along the walkable commercial corridors.
Everyday Errands
Ridgewood's walkable downtown provides dry cleaners, banks, pharmacies, and specialty shops. The village's compact layout makes most errands walkable.
What Parks and Outdoor Spaces Does Ridgewood Offer?
Ridgewood offers 127+ acres of parkland, from the unique natural spring-fed Graydon Pool to the Saddle River County Park trails and the scenic Duck Pond.
Graydon Pool
A unique 8-acre natural spring-fed pond and beach that serves as Ridgewood's beloved summer swimming spot. One of the last natural swimming areas in Bergen County.
Ridgewood Duck Pond
A scenic park along the Saddle River with walking paths, a duck pond, and picnic areas, a year-round favorite for residents.
Saddle River County Park
A multi-use park with paved paths for walking and cycling, athletic fields, and playgrounds stretching along the Saddle River through several communities.
Veterans Memorial Park
A central green space with memorials, benches, and large canopy trees, ideal for a quiet afternoon walk through the heart of the village.
Walking & Biking
Ridgewood's extensive path system and tree-lined streets make it one of the most walkable and bikeable communities in Bergen County. The village has invested heavily in pedestrian infrastructure.
Renting in Ridgewood
Bergen County's most walkable downtown with a village feel.
Rental Market Snapshot
What Renters Are Paying
| Unit Type | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,900 - $2,400/mo |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,600 - $2,900/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,300 - $4,400/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,000 - $5,200/mo |
Average rent across all unit types: approximately $3,000/mo. Ridgewood is one of the more expensive rental markets in Bergen County.
What You Get for That Rent
Ridgewood's downtown is one of the most walkable in Bergen County, with independent restaurants, boutique shops, and a village atmosphere. The rental market includes apartments above storefronts, newer developments, and townhome rentals. The NJ Transit train station connects you to Hoboken and Secaucus. Most buildings include parking, and the town's parks and green spaces are a major draw.
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)
The Village That Feels Like a Small Town in the City
Ridgewood has one of the most walkable and charming downtowns in all of Bergen County. The village center along East Ridgewood Avenue and North Maple Avenue is lined with independent restaurants, boutique shops, and cafes. The Saturday farmers market is a community gathering spot, and the town hosts regular events throughout the year.
The residential neighborhoods are tree-lined and quiet, with a mix of historic homes and newer developments. The Ridgewood Public Library is a community hub, and the town's parks and green spaces offer year-round outdoor recreation. Saddle River County Park and the Ridgewood Wild Duck Pond are popular destinations.
For renters, Ridgewood offers something rare: a genuine village atmosphere with walkable downtown access and easy transit to Manhattan. The NJ Transit train gets you to Hoboken in about 35 minutes. The rents are higher than most Bergen County towns, but the quality of life is hard to beat. If you want a town that feels like a community, not just an address, Ridgewood delivers.
Scott Selleck knows Ridgewood well. He can help you find the right neighborhood.
Commute Options for Renters
NJ Transit Train
- → Route: Ridgewood to Hoboken
- → Time: 35 minutes
- → Monthly pass: approximately $150
NJ Transit Bus 166/171
- → Route: Ridgewood to Port Authority
- → Time: 40-55 minutes
- → Monthly pass: approximately $110
Driving
- → Route: Route 17 to GWB
- → Time: 20-25 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 Ridgewood
Monthly Rent
Median $3,000/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 Ridgewood market data as of August 2026.
Thinking About Ridgewood?
I know these neighborhoods inside and out. Let's talk about what Ridgewood could look like for you.
Your Personal Real Estate
Command Center
Built by Scott Selleck. Licensed since 1993. 500+ transactions closed.
Take a quick 7-question quiz and Scott Selleck's AI-powered system will instantly build you a personalized Resource Hub, packed with everything you need to make a confident move in Ridgewood. This isn't a generic website. It's your own private dashboard, built on 500+ transactions of hyperlocal knowledge.
Scott's AI Clone
Talk to Scott's AI 24/7, trained on his 500+ transactions and licensed local expertise across Bergen and Hudson Counties.
NotebookLM Neighborhood Guides
AI-generated deep-dive guides for your target towns, packed with hyperlocal insights.
Northern NJ Relocation Guide
Complete step-by-step guide for moving to Bergen or Hudson County, New Jersey.
Virtual Neighborhood Walking Tours
Experience your future neighborhood before you even visit, with immersive video tours curated for you.
Curated Blog Articles
Scott's handpicked insights on market trends, local tips, and community happenings.
Curated Video Content
Personalized video recommendations matched to your answers, goals, and timeline.
Company Services Overview
A full breakdown of what The Selleck Group offers, from pricing to staging to closing.
NJ Relocation Guide
Exclusive resources and guidance for moving to Northern NJ, curated by a local advisor.
Scott brings licensed local knowledge to every client relationship, built on 500+ transactions across Bergen and Hudson Counties.
Takes about 90 seconds. Results are instant.
This isn't a cookie-cutter packet. Based on YOUR answers, your budget, your timeline, your priorities, and your target neighborhoods, Scott's system builds a Resource Hub that's actually useful to YOU. Not a 50-page PDF you'll never read. A living, breathing tool designed for your specific move.
Nearby Towns
Glen Rock
Village living with two train stations.
Wyckoff
Farm stands, nature trails, and downtown scene.
Midland Park
Quiet residential community.
Paramus
Shopping and dining capital of Bergen.
Considering a move to Florida? Read our NJ to Florida Moving Guide for cost comparisons, moving process.