Explore Our Complete Guide to Living in Park Ridge NJ 😍 - Is Park Ridge a Good Place to Live?
Are you considering living in Park Ridge NJ? Check out our comprehensive guide on living and relocating to the area. We discuss everything the city offers, from its excellent schools to the amazing parks and recreation resources. If you’re asking yourself, “Is Park Ridge a good place to live?”, we can help answer that question.
Park Ridge offers family-friendly suburbia, just miles from The Big Apple, and is near towns like Montvale and Woodcliff Lake. It was founded on May 15, 1894, boasting over 120 years of history. This borough was named after its very location: along the Pascack Valley ridge, in northern Bergen County, and the park-like landscape it was once surrounded by.
Park Ridge is best known for its historic significance, hosting sites like Wortendyke Barn Museum and its strong economic allure; Hertz and Sony both used to have headquarters in Park Ridge. It’s an affluent town with a strong school district and a low crime rate.
Park Ridge is a great place to live thanks to its rich history, low crime rate, and location. Gain more in-depth insight into living here below, as we dive deep into its crime rate, cost of living, places to live, and the real estate market!
Where Is Park Ridge NJ?
Park Ridge NJ is located in Bergen County within the New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY–NJ–PA Metropolitan Statistical Area, offering close proximity to big-city living; it’s 30.4 miles from Park Ridge NJ to NYC.
Residents living in Park Ridge NJ, also experience easy access to County Route 503, Garden State Parkway (GSP), and 38.9 miles of local roadways to support residential traffic within the borough limits. The city also offers optimal public transportation; residents ride the NJ Transit on the Pascack Valley Line.
NJT Bus PABT:
- 151
- 161
- 163
- 164
- 165P
- 166
- 167
- 177
- 196
- 197
The above lines travel from Park Ridge, NJ, to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City.
What Is the Population of Park Ridge NJ?
The population of Park Ridge NJ, is 9,218, and the population density is 3,535.8 per square foot. Its metro population is a whopping 20.1 million people. Park Ridge is one of the fastest-growing cities in New Jersey, which many people living in Park Ridge NJ appreciate.
Notable people:
- Jedh Colby Barker
- Tom Coughlin
- Brian Cushing
Additional Demographics
Many residents living in Park Ridge NJ earn above the national average, as the median household income in Park Ridge is $165,391. 18% of residents are close to retirement, aged 50 to 59. However, there are still lots of families and young business professionals. The median age here is 46.4, and 43% are under 39. The average household size is 2.8, and 58% of residents are married. 2.1% of the Park Ridge residents who are between the ages of 15 and 50 (child-bearing years) have given birth.
- Sex ratio: 53 females to 47 males
- Person below poverty: 2.5%
- Educational attainment:
- 96.2% have high school diplomas
- 56.9% have bachelor's degrees
- Foreign-born population: 12%
- Veteran status: 3.6%
Racial and ethnic demographic of people living in Park Ridge NJ:
- White (Non‑Hispanic): 80%
- Hispanic or Latino (of any race): 14.3%
- Asian: 2.2%
- Black or African American: 1.8%
- Two or more races / multiracial: 7%
Is Park Ridge NJ Safe?
Having safety concerns before moving is entirely normal, but rest easy knowing Park Ridge is among the safest towns in New Jersey, according to FBI crime statistics.
- Park Ridge crime rate per 100,000 people: 279
- New Jersey crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,620
- US crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,324
The crime rate in Park Ridge, New Jersey, is 82.8% lower than the state and 88.0% lower than the country.
- Park Ridge violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 10
- New Jersey crime rate per 100,000 people: 203
- US crime rate per 100,000 people: 370
The violent crime rate in Park Ridge is 95.1% lower than the state and 97.3% lower than the country. The murder rate here is 0 per 100,000 people.
- Park Ridge property crime rate per 100,000 people: 269
- New Jersey property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,417
- US crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,954
The property crime rate in Park Ridge is 81.0% lower than the state and 86.2% lower than the country.
Living in Park Ridge NJ is for you if safety is one of the main priorities! Park Ridge NJ Police Department does a fantastic job keeping the residents safe and the borough crime-free.
Park Ridge NJ Cost of Living
The cost of living in Park Ridge, NJ, is higher than the national average (146 Cost of Living Index; the US average is 100), primarily due to the high cost of housing. Median home values are around $650,000, while the Park Ridge median monthly rent is about $3,029.
Overall living expenses run roughly 19% above the national average, with groceries 6% higher, utilities 3% higher, and transportation 5% higher, all according to PayScale. The average tax bill in Park Ridge is $15,409, reflecting the town’s relatively high cost of living.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four would need $131,215 to live in Bergen County each year.
Here’s more on typical Park Ridge Bergen County living expenses:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $20.00
- Liter of milk: $1.28
- Pound of white rice: $4.00
- Loaf of white bread: $4.00
- Dozen eggs: $5.59
- Pound of local cheese: $6.69
- Average utilities in Park Ridge NJ per month: $135.40
Source: Numbeo
Park Ridge NJ Real Estate Overview
Park Ridge’s high median home price ($787,500) makes it a compelling choice to invest in property. The median sale price in the US is $410,800, for reference. The average price per square foot for Park Ridge NJ homes for sale is $363, representing a 10% increase since last year. You will likely make a profit on your new home in Park Ridge if you ever decide to sell. Living in Park Ridge NJ is beautiful, but it’s nice to know you likely won’t lose money if life ever decides to take you elsewhere.
Park Ridge Neighborhoods - Where to Live in Park Ridge NJ
Park Ridge, NJ, is a single suburban borough in Bergen County, known more for its overall community than separate neighborhoods. It offers a quiet suburban feel with highly rated public schools, a mix of homeowners and retirees, and mostly residential streets. While Park Ridge isn’t divided into many distinct neighborhoods, it is bordered by Montvale, Woodcliff Lake, River Vale, and Hillsdale, making nearby areas easy to explore. Overall, living in Park Ridge, NJ, is welcoming and convenient.
The architectural styles in Park Ridge vary from Dutch Colonial/Stone Vernacular to Mid-Century Ranch, Split-Level, and Post-War Homes. There are also some Neo‑Colonial and Revival Styles to choose from. Essentially, regardless of where you choose to live in Park Ridge, you will gain access to a wide range of beautiful homes.
Weather Park Ridge NJ - Extreme Weather Patterns, Annual Snow & Rainfall, Etc.
When living in Park Ridge NJ, you will experience a Dfa zone: a humid continental climate with hot summers. Summers range from warm to hot and are typically humid and relatively wet. The warm season lasts about 3½ months (from late May to mid‑September). The weather is most pleasant in the fall, as temperatures begin to drop, but it’s before the frigid season.
The cold season lasts about 3.3 months (early December to early March); in April, the temperatures warm to around 55 degrees. The driest months in Park Ridge are August and April, and the most snowfall occurs in January, with roughly 8.8 inches.
As part of northern New Jersey, Park Ridge can be impacted by nor’easters in winter — heavy snow, strong winds, and coastal influence. The best time of year to visit Park Ridge NJ is mid‑June through late September, when temperatures are warm but comfortable.
Things to Do in Park Ridge NJ - Parks Department Overview & Area Events
Park Ridge offers a wealth of activities alongside its shopping options and historical landmarks. Ridgemont Shopping Center is where most residents purchase their daily essentials and engage in recreational shopping. If you’re more of an outdoorsy-type, keep on reading, as we cover the various well-maintained parks and community centers below.
Memorial Field
One of the numerous parks in Park Ridge, Memorial Field, offers a playground, walking areas, and turf soccer fields for recreational use. It’s right near Silver Lake, which provides fishing opportunities.
Jack J Healy Dr, Park Ridge, NJ 07656,
Wortendyke Barn
Wortendyke Barn is a historic museum showcasing memorabilia from the region. There are often events with live music and vendors here.
13 Pascack Rd, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, (201) 930-0124
River Vale Country Club
Located in neighboring River Vale, the River Vale Country Club is a great place to enjoy Park Ridge’s beautiful weather and competitive golf scene. You can conveniently book a tee time online!
660 Rivervale Rd, River Vale, NJ 07675, (201) 391-2300
Park Ridge Municipal Pool
The borough of Park Ridge hosts a community pool that’s open most of the year for its citizens to enjoy.
123 Colony Ave, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, (201) 391-0831
Parks Districts Programs
The Parks Ridge borough offers 50,000 acres of green spaces for its residents to explore and enjoy outdoor activities. The parks and recreation department hosts fun events like their annual tree lighting during the Christmas season.
Restaurants in Park Ridge NJ
Park Ridge isn’t known for having a specific food, but rather a wide variety for you to explore. Here are the best dining options when living in Park Ridge NJ.
Four Leaves
Four Leaves is a gastropub serving delicious dishes like popcorn chicken and fresh-baked pretzels. The cocktails here are handcrafted and delicious.
146 Kinderkamack Rd, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, (201) 690-6755
103 PRIME
103 Prime is a steakhouse known for its perfectly cooked meats, fresh seafood, and a calming atmosphere.
103 Spring Valley Rd, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, (201) 391-2220
Peppercorns Restaurant and Bar
Peppercorns provides a more casual ambience, with burgers and fries being the focal point. Their French dip and wings are also highly reviewed items.
176 Colony Ave, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, (201) 391-2818
Jobs in Park Ridge NJ - Economic Overview & Major Employers
Are you looking into jobs in Park Ridge NJ, pending a move? Here’s everything you need to know about working and living in Park Ridge NJ. This borough is attractive to young professionals due to its developing business district and commuter town, located just 30 miles from New York City. Headquarters like Hertz and Sony once called Park Ridge home, and National Utilities Services remains a major employer in the region, which is also located in Park Ridge.
The medical field is the largest industry in the region, but social assistance, professional, scientific, and technical services are prominent.
Major employers of Bergen County:
- Hackensack University Medical Center
- Valley Health System, Ridgewood
- Holy Name Medical Center, Teaneck
The Great Passack Valley Chamber of Commerce extends across ten towns, including Park Ridge. The GPSCC is committed to promoting business development in Park Ridge by assisting business owners. The monthly meetings provide a space for community professionals to connect and collaborate. Their philanthropic activities consist of granting scholarships to graduating seniors and donating profits to local charities. The idea of encompassing multiple communities into the chamber of commerce provides ample opportunity to network outside of your immediate town.
Park Ridge NJ Schools - Public, Private, & Enrollment Information
Park Ridge School District (PRSD) is the public school district serving pre-k through 12th-grade students. There are three schools in the district limits: East Brook Elementary School, West Ridge Elementary School, and Park Ridge High School; the middle school program is run within the high school building.
The public schools in Park Ridge are among the top 10% of New Jersey schools, according to Public School Reviews. The schools within the district offer unique programs such as the Integrated Preschool Program, general-education children (ages 3-4), and special-needs children in the same classrooms. “The Owl House” transition program is designed for graduate students (18-21) who have unique goals for their lives after graduation—for example, developing life skills, job sampling, community internships, and independent living skills.
Private Schools
If you’re seeking academic excellence, consider these private schools in and near Park Ridge.
Common Questions People Ask About Living in Park Ridge NJ
Is Park Ridge, New Jersey a good place to live?
Park Ridge, New Jersey, is considered a desirable suburb in Bergen County, known for its quiet residential neighborhoods, highly rated Park Ridge Public Schools, and proximity to New York City, approximately 25 miles away. The borough offers local parks, recreational facilities, and community events, making it family-friendly. While the cost of living is above the national average, residents benefit from a low crime rate and strong municipal services, contributing to a safe and stable living environment.
Is Park Ridge, NJ a wealthy town?
Park Ridge, New Jersey, is considered an affluent borough in Bergen County, with a median household income that’s $86,853 above the national average. Many homes in Park Ridge are valued at over $600,000, reflecting the community’s higher economic status. The borough’s wealth is supported by its proximity to New York City, quality public schools in the Park Ridge Public School District, and well-maintained local amenities, making it an attractive location for families and professionals.
Is it Expensive to Live in Park Ridge?
Living in Park Ridge NJ is relatively expensive compared to national averages. The borough’s median home value exceeds $500,000, and property taxes (effective tax rate of about 2.262%) are higher than the state average, reflecting the community’s quality schools, local services, and suburban amenities. Park Ridge residents also benefit from well-maintained parks, recreational programs (indoor pickleball, recreational sports teams, city-organized ski trips, etc.), and proximity to New York City, which can affect commuting costs. Overall, the cost of living is elevated by housing, taxes, and the area’s affluent status, making it a more expensive but desirable place to live.
Park Ridge NJ Statistics & Information
- County: Bergen County
- Park Ridge area: 2.60 square miles (6.73 km²)
- Park Ridge NJ zip code: 07656
- Park Ridge area code(s): 201 and 551
- Park Ridge elevation: 210 feet (64 meters) above sea level
- Park Ridge time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC −5 and -4)
- Closest airport to Park Ridge: Teterboro Airport (TEB) – approximately 12 miles south of Park Ridge
Park Ridge NJ Map
Are you moving to Park Ridge? Explore more of the Park Ridge community with this handy map.
Moving to Park Ridge NJ With Harrington Moving & Storage
As you can see, Park Ridge stands as one of the top communities in Bergen County. If you’re thinking of living in Park Ridge NJ, let the top Park Ridge NJ movers handle your upcoming move. Call Harrington Moving & Storage today at (973) 313-2246 for a free estimate.
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