South Hackensack
An affordable township near Hackensack with highway access and mixed 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 South Hackensack, NJ?
South Hackensack is a small township of approximately 2,700 residents in central Bergen County, adjacent to the city of Hackensack. With median home values of $550K-$750K and excellent highway access via I-80 and Route 4, it offers an affordable entry point into Bergen County with a mix of residential and light industrial character.
South Hackensack is a compact township in the Hackensack River lowlands, bordered by Hackensack to the north and east, Lodi to the south, and Wood-Ridge to the southwest. Its location at the intersection of major transportation corridors, I-80, Route 46, and Route 4, makes it one of the most accessible communities in Bergen County for highway commuters.
The township's housing stock includes single-family homes, duplexes, and multi-family properties at price points that remain competitive within the Bergen County market. While South Hackensack has a small commercial footprint, its adjacency to Hackensack provides access to extensive shopping, dining, and medical facilities.
NJ Transit bus routes provide connections to the Port Authority Bus Terminal, and the township's central location makes it practical for commuters who rely on highway access rather than rail.
What Do Homes Cost in South Hackensack, NJ in 2026?
Median $550K-$750K. Single-family homes, duplexes, and multi-family properties. Affordable for Bergen County.
How Long Is the Commute from South Hackensack to NYC?
NJ Transit bus or drive via I-80/GW Bridge. 40-60 min to Midtown Manhattan.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in South Hackensack, NJ?
Local Italian Restaurants
South Hackensack's small commercial area includes family-run Italian restaurants serving classic red-sauce dishes and pizza, reflecting the area's heritage.
Hackensack Dining (nearby)
Adjacent Hackensack offers an extensive and varied dining scene along Main St and Anderson St, with dozens of restaurants representing multiple cuisines.
Lodi Dining (nearby)
Nearby Lodi provides Italian bakeries, delis, and casual eateries with a strong Italian-American food tradition.
Paramus Dining Options (nearby)
The Paramus area along Routes 4 and 17 offers chain and independent restaurants for every taste.
South Hackensack's limited local dining is supplemented by Hackensack's extensive restaurant scene and nearby Lodi's Italian food heritage.
What Parks and Recreation Does South Hackensack Offer?
South Hackensack Township Parks
Community parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and open space for recreation and community activities.
Foschini Park (nearby)
A Hackensack city park with athletic facilities and green space accessible from South Hackensack.
Hackensack River Walk (nearby)
Walking paths along the Hackensack River providing natural areas for passive recreation and observation.
Overpeck County Park (nearby)
A large Bergen County park with a lake, sports facilities, and cultural venues accessible from the township.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in South Hackensack, NJ?
South Hackensack Community Day
An annual community celebration featuring food vendors, live entertainment, and activities for all ages.
Independence Day Celebration
Community Fourth of July festivities with activities and evening celebrations.
Holiday Tree Lighting
A festive gathering each December with seasonal refreshments and the official township tree lighting.
Cultural Community Events
Events reflecting the township's community, with celebrations of multiple cultural traditions throughout the year.
How Do You Get to Manhattan from South Hackensack, NJ?
South Hackensack is served by NJ Transit bus routes connecting to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. The bus commute typically takes 40-60 minutes depending on traffic.
By car, South Hackensack sits near the junction of I-80, Route 46, and Route 4. Driving to Midtown Manhattan takes approximately 30-50 minutes off-peak via the GW Bridge or Lincoln Tunnel.
Rail access is available from nearby Hackensack or Paterson stations on NJ Transit's Main/Bergen County lines, providing service to Hoboken Terminal and Penn Station via Secaucus Junction.
How Do You Get to NYC from South Hackensack?
South Hackensack has excellent highway access via I-80, Route 46, and Route 4, with NJ Transit bus service to the Port Authority.
NJ Transit Bus to Port Authority
Bus routes serve South Hackensack with connections to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Commute times typically 40-60 minutes.
Driving via I-80 and GW Bridge
I-80 provides direct access to the GW Bridge corridor. Driving to Midtown takes approximately 30-50 minutes off-peak.
NJ Transit Rail (Hackensack/Paterson, nearby)
Nearby train stations provide rail service to Hoboken Terminal and Penn Station via Secaucus Junction.
Average Commute
South Hackensack residents average approximately 45-65 minutes door-to-door to Midtown Manhattan.
Where Are the Coffee Shops in South Hackensack?
South Hackensack has limited local dining, with Hackensack's extensive restaurant scene just minutes away.
Local Establishments
Small restaurants and eateries serve the community in the township's commercial areas.
Hackensack Main St (nearby)
Adjacent Hackensack offers dozens of restaurants representing multiple cuisines.
Is South Hackensack Good for Pet Owners?
South Hackensack offers community parks and proximity to larger parks for outdoor activities with pets.
Nearby Veterinary Clinics
Veterinary practices in Hackensack and Paramus provide comprehensive pet care.
Township Parks
Community parks with green space provide settings for leashed dog walks.
Overpeck County Park (nearby)
A large county park with extensive trails and open space for outdoor activities with pets.
Pet Supply Shopping
Pet supply stores are accessible in nearby Hackensack and Paramus.
What Hospitals and Medical Services Are Near South Hackensack?
Hackensack University Medical Center is adjacent to South Hackensack, providing world-class medical care.
Hackensack University Medical Center
One of New Jersey's largest hospitals, directly adjacent to the township. A Level I Trauma Center.
Primary Care
Primary care physicians are available in South Hackensack and Hackensack.
Specialty Care
The Hackensack area offers extensive specialty medical practices and urgent care centers.
Pharmacies
CVS and Walgreens are accessible in South Hackensack and Hackensack.
Where Do Residents Shop for Groceries in South Hackensack?
South Hackensack has limited local retail and is minutes from major grocery shopping in Hackensack and Paramus.
Local Markets
Small markets and delis in the township serve daily grocery needs.
ShopRite (Hackensack, nearby)
Full-service supermarkets in Hackensack provide complete grocery selections.
Target & Walmart (nearby)
Major retail options in the Hackensack and Paramus shopping corridors.
Everyday Errands
South Hackensack's commercial areas and adjacent Hackensack provide banks, retail, and services.
What Parks and Outdoor Spaces Does South Hackensack Offer?
South Hackensack offers township parks and proximity to Overpeck County Park and the Hackensack River.
Township Parks
Community parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and open green space.
Overpeck County Park (nearby)
A large Bergen County park with a lake, sports facilities, and walking trails.
Hackensack River Access (nearby)
Walking paths along the Hackensack River provide natural areas for passive recreation.
Walking & Biking
South Hackensack's residential streets and parks provide walking and cycling opportunities.
Renting in South Hackensack
A quiet township with easy highway access and competitive rents.
Rental Market Snapshot
What Renters Are Paying
| Unit Type | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,600, $2,000/mo |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,800, $2,300/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,200, $2,800/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,600, $3,400/mo |
Average rent across all unit types: approximately $2,000/mo.
What You Get for That Rent
South Hackensack is a quiet township in central Bergen County with easy highway access. The rental market includes garden-style apartments, townhome rentals, and newer developments. Most buildings include parking, and the township's parks are community gathering spots.
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)
Central Bergen Convenience
South Hackensack sits at the crossroads of three major highways - I-80, Route 46, and Route 4 - putting it within easy reach of Bergen County's employment centers, shopping corridors, and entertainment options. For renters, this highway connectivity means you can live affordably while still having quick access to everything the region offers.
The rental market here is notably more affordable than Bergen County's Gold Coast corridor or the closer-in suburbs near the GWB. Garden-style apartment complexes offer competitive rents with thoughtful amenities like parking and landscaped grounds. The township's quiet, residential feel appeals to renters who want a calm home base without paying a premium for waterfront views or nightlife.
Proximity to Hackensack means everyday errands, medical care, and dining are all just minutes away. The Hackensack University Medical Center is literally adjacent to the township, and the Hackensack dining scene along Main Street provides everything from casual cafes to fine dining. For renters, the combination of lower rents and central Bergen County location is the real draw.
Commute Options for Renters
NJ Transit Bus
- → Route: South Hackensack to Port Authority Bus Terminal
- → Time: 40-60 minutes with local service
- → Monthly pass: approximately $110 (Zone 2)
- → Commuters who prefer public transit over driving
NJ Transit Train (from nearby Hackensack)
- → Station: Hackensack (5-7 min drive)
- → Route: Main/Bergen County Line to Hoboken and Penn Station
- → Time: 35-50 minutes to Penn Station via Secaucus
- → Commuters who prefer rail travel
Driving
- → Route: I-80 or Route 4 to GW Bridge
- → Time: 30-50 minutes to Midtown (off-peak)
- → Tolls: GWB $14.79 off-peak / $16.79 peak (E-ZPass)
- → Parking: Most rental buildings include one space
What It Actually Costs to Rent in South Hackensack
Monthly Rent
Median $2,000/mo
for a typical 1-2 bedroom apartment
Security Deposit
Capped at 1.5 months' rent
by NJ law, held in escrow
Utilities
Electric $80-$120/mo
gas $40-$60/mo, water $30-$45/mo
Internet
Comcast and Verizon Fios
$50-$80/mo for standard plans
Parking
Most buildings include one space
Additional spaces $75-$150/mo
Pet Costs
Monthly pet rent $25-$50
Some buildings require a one-time pet deposit
All figures are estimates based on current South Hackensack market data. Actual costs vary by building, unit size, and lease terms.
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Nearby Towns
Moonachie
Industrial-residential town.
Little Ferry
Convenient Bergen County location.
Teterboro
The smallest borough.
Hackensack
Bergen County's hub city.
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