Ridgewood is one of the most recognized addresses in Bergen County, and for good reason. The village pairs a lively, walkable downtown with tree-lined residential streets, strong public schools and easy rail access to Manhattan. It is the kind of place where people come for the schools and the commute, then stay for the community.
If Ridgewood is on your list, here is a local’s look at what to expect.
Ridgewood at a Glance
- County: Bergen
- Type: Village with a traditional downtown
- Commute: NJ Transit rail from Ridgewood Station
- Schools: Ridgewood Public Schools, including Ridgewood High School
- Best for: Buyers who want a walkable town, top schools and a train to the city
Downtown and Daily Life
Downtown Ridgewood is the heart of the village. Ridgewood Avenue and the surrounding streets are lined with boutiques, cafés, restaurants and specialty shops, and Van Neste Square serves as a gathering spot for concerts and seasonal events. Many residents walk or bike into town, and the downtown stays busy year-round with farmers markets, holiday celebrations and community traditions.
Schools
Education is one of the biggest reasons families choose Ridgewood. The district includes several neighborhood elementary schools, two middle schools and Ridgewood High School, with a wide range of academic, arts and athletic programs. Because elementary assignments are based on address, many buyers focus their search around a specific school.
Getting to New York City
Ridgewood Station sits right downtown and is served by NJ Transit, with connections to New York Penn Station through Secaucus Junction and service to Hoboken. Drivers have quick access to Route 17 and the Garden State Parkway, which makes Ridgewood a practical choice for commuters heading into the city or across North Jersey.
Parks and Recreation
Graydon Pool, a sand-bottom swimming area, is a summer favorite. The Saddle River County Park path runs through the village and is popular with walkers, runners and cyclists, and the Ridgewood Duck Pond area connects to that trail. Local parks and athletic fields host a busy calendar of recreation sports throughout the year.
Homes and Neighborhoods
Ridgewood’s housing stock is known for its character. You will find center-hall colonials, Tudors, Victorians and thoughtfully expanded homes on mature, landscaped lots. Homes within walking distance of downtown and the train are especially popular, while the hillier western side of the village offers larger homes and lots. Well-maintained, updated homes in Ridgewood typically draw strong interest, so being prepared to move quickly matters.
Is Ridgewood Right for You?
If you want a true small-town downtown, highly regarded schools and a straightforward commute, Ridgewood is hard to beat. Buyers should plan for a competitive market and weigh property taxes, which vary by home, as part of their budget.
Thinking about Ridgewood? Learn more on my Ridgewood community page, or share your search criteria and I will send you homes that fit. Already own in Ridgewood? Find out what your home is worth.
School assignments, transit schedules and local amenities can change. Please verify details that are important to your decision.