Aerial view of a Bergen County borough depicting buildings, parking lots, and green trees.

Jeff Harrington

January 20, 2025

Is Rutherford NJ a Good Place to Live? 🍀 Our Guide Explores Living in Rutherford NJ

Last Updated On: 1st April 2026, 11:01 pm

Is Rutherford NJ a good place to live? Living in Rutherford NJ is great thanks to its quality education options, high median home value, and close proximity to the Big Apple. Rutherford is one of the top New Jersey boroughs and is an inner ring NYC suburb, living about 8 miles from Manhattan. It’s a quaint town with much to offer. If moving to Rutherford is in your future, keep reading to learn more about life in The Borough of Trees.

History

With Lenape Native Americans being Rutherfords’ first inhabitants, the community’s history is rich. After American settlers took over the land, the area was referred to as Boiling Springs but was renamed in 1875 after the US Senator John Rutherford. Other historical events include the birth of William Carlos Williams, a world-famous poet, and the establishment of Fairleigh Dickinson University.

What Is Rutherford NJ Known for?

Rutherford, NJ, is known for its rich history, and cute downtown area. It's also boasts attractions such as Meadowland Museum, Williams Center, and Paint Zone Art Studio (which we discuss below).

When you’re ready to start your big move to Rutherford, let Harrington Moving & Storage be your New Jersey movers.

Where Is Rutherford?

Rutherford NJ is located in Bergen County, northeast of Newark and northwest of New York City. The Borough of Trees is a great place to live as it’s in a prime location and offers easy access to notable cities such as East Rutherford, Ridgewood, Glen Rock, and Hackensack.

It’s not called one of the best NJ commuter towns for nothing:

Rutherford NJ to Newark NJ: 8.6 miles
Rutherford NJ to New York City: 13 miles

Hoboken is 8.8 miles southeast, and Jersey City is 11.1 miles southwest.

Public Transportation - Is Rutherford NJ a Good Place to Live for Commuters?

People living in Rutherford have access to various forms of public transportation. NJ Transit is the go-to commuter provider, offering statewide and regional (including NYC) transportation.

The Borough of Rutherford provides a commuter shuttle and community bus.

Rutherford Population & Demographics

Rutherford, NJ, has a population of 18,834, with virtually no population change (0.1%) since 2010. According to the US Census Bureau, the median household income here is $136,069, which is well above the national average of $78,538. This borough's poverty rate is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 11.1%, making Rutherford an affluent place to live.

The median age is 40.7, and 37% of its population is under the age of 29. Rutherford is more favored by middle-aged and older married couples, as 52% of people living in Rutherford NJ are between the ages 30 and 69, and 66% of the entire population is married. Of the 6,955 households, there are 4,833 families.

Additional Demographics

Sex ratio: 51 males to 49 females
Moved since the previous year: 7.5%
Educational attainment:
- 94.6% have high school diplomas
- 58.8% have bachelor's degrees
- 23% have post-grad degrees
Foreign-born population: 25.2%

What is the ethnic population of Rutherford NJ? The population consists of 71.3% White, 2.3% Black or African American, 0.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, and 16.2% Asian. Hispanic or Latino individuals make up 22.7% of the population. Additionally, 7.7% identify as two or more races. Among specific ethnic groups, Non-Hispanic White accounts for 57.5%, Non-Hispanic Asian for 15.3%, and Hispanic White for 10%. Individuals who identify as two or more races include 7.61% Hispanic and 3.14% non-Hispanic.

Is Rutherford NJ Safe?

According to the FBI, Rutherford is a very safe place to live; its crime rate is 25.3% lower than the state and 47.9% lower than the country.

Rutherford NJ crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,210
New Jersey crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,620
US crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,324

Rutherford violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 38
New Jersey violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 203
US violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 370

Rutherford’s violent crime rate is exceptionally lower than the state (81.3%) and the country (89.7%); there is only a 1 in 2,656 chance of being affected by violent crime when living in Rutherford NJ. There were only 7 violent crimes committed in the last year in Rutherford.

Rutherford property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,173
New Jersey property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,417
US property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,954

Rutherford also experiences nearly no property crime, as its property crime rate is 17.2% lower than the state and 40.0% lower than the country. Considering New Jersey is one of the country’s safest states, Rutherford’s crime statistics are exceptionally impressive.

Is Rutherford NJ a good place to live if safety is a concern? Absolutely! Rutherford isn’t just located in one of the state's safest cities, the borough also boasts a low crime rate. There is only a 1 in 83 chance of becoming a victim of crime after moving to Rutherford.

Residents and visitors alike are protected by the Rutherford Police Department, which has 41 officers, providing one dedicated, trained officer per 459 people. For years, Rutherford was a dry town, but in 2023 the city issued its first liquor license.

Cost of Living in Rutherford

Rutherford NJ has a Cost of Living Index (COLI) of 135, making it 35% more expensive than the national average. Housing costs are a huge factor to consider, as a house in Rutherford costs 111% more than the average US city. However, New Jersey is the 6th-most expensive state in the country, so Rutherford’s high cost isn’t a surprise.

Typical Rutherford living expenses:

Inexpensive restaurant meal: $21.50
Gallon of milk: $4.50
Loaf of white bread: $4.00
Pound of white rice: $2.58
Dozen eggs: $3.85
Pound of local cheese: $3.00
Pound of apples: $2.45
Average Rutherford utilities per month: $419 (per Doxo)

Source: Numbeo

According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four can live comfortably in Bergen County with a household income of $131,215.

Rutherford NJ Real Estate

No matter where you choose, buying a house in NJ is exciting yet expensive. The median sale price in Rutherford is $749,500, which is above the US median of $420,400 and above the state’s $533,300 median. The price per square foot here is $389, and Rutherford NJ homes for sale sell within 75 days.

Renting in here is another great option. The average rent in Rutherford is $2,055 for a 622-square-foot unit. When compared to New York City’s $4,641 for a smaller unit and Jersey City’s 769 square feet, Rutherford is far more affordable.

Is Rutherford NJ a good place to live on a budget? While more expensive than the average US city, Rutherford is more affordable than NYC and Jersey City.

Rutherford Neighborhoods - Where to Live?

As one of the top cities near Newark NJ, Rutherford has many great communities to consider.

Berry’s Creek

The community around Berry’s Creek is a series of homes located off of Berry’s Creek and the other waterways that split from it. It’s a quiet neighborhood with a fair amount of children. Residents like its proximity to the Mets Stadium.

Central Rutherford New Jersey

If you want to be near the various stores and attractions, finding a house in the town's center is key. The borough's center is near the notable Rutherford Montessori, which is great if you have young children, and you’re within walking distance of tons of tasty restaurants and eateries.

Rutherford Weather

Like all of Northern Jersey, according to the Koppen classification, Rutherford boasts a humid continental climate. The summers are warm and humid with lots of rain, and the winters are nearly freezing with lots of snow. Rutherford NJ weather is enjoyable most of the year, but the winters can get quite cold, with an average daily low of 26 degrees in January. The borough typically sees about 26 inches of snow a year.

Is Rutherford NJ a good place to live, considering its weather? The summer is the best time to visit Rutherford, as any time in late July to late September ensures you can enjoy all the summertime activities the area offers.

Things to Do in Rutherford NJ

Are you looking for things to do in Rutherford? Below is a complete guide to all the parks, shopping options, and more.

Shopping within the borough is limited to shopping plazas, grocery stores, and select locally-owned storefronts. However, the American Dream Mall and The Mall at Mill Creek are within 10 miles.

Meadowlands Museum

Step back into time at the Meadowland Museum, a historic farmhouse with various exhibits depicting what life in Rutherford was like in its earliest years.

91 Crane Ave, Rutherford, NJ 07070, (201) 935-1175

Memorial Park

If you’re seeking one of the best Rutherford NJ parks, check out Memorial Park in neighboring Nutley. Visitors like to walk along the Third River, bike the paths, and even picnic. The area is infamous for its cherry blossom trees and peaceful ambiance.

450 Passaic Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110, (973) 2844-966

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center New Jersey

Let your kids get some energy out at Legoland Discovery Center, one of the best things to do in Rutherford NJ! There is a movie theatre, aquarium, train rides, and so much more.

Upper Level, 1 American Dream Way Suite A, East Rutherford, NJ 07073, (551) 234-6381

Additional Attractions

Is Rutherford NJ a good place to live if you attend community events? Yes, look to the borough’s special events calendar to remain up-to-date on all its community gatherings. If you live an active lifestyle, Persistence Pilates and Fire Shaper are go-to hot yoga and pilates places.

Rutherford Restaurants

Are you wondering what the top restaurants in Rutherford NJ are? Take a look below!

Paisano's

Paisano’s is a notable Italian eatery and is commonly referred to as one of the best restaurants in Rutherford NJ. Its most popular menu items are short ribs, pork chops, and creme brulee.

132 Park Ave, Rutherford, NJ 07070, (201) 935-5755

Volaris

Volares is another Italian dining experience, yet more elevated. With over 300 positive reviews, rest assured you’ll be satisfied with your meal here. Volares is known for its friendly service, cheesecake, and octopus appetizer.

7 Station Square, Rutherford, NJ 07070, (201) 935-6606

Rutherford Pancake House

Ruther Pancake House is the top breakfast and brunch joint in the city. It’s one of the top Restaurants Rutherford NJ because of its tasty French toast and gluten-free options.

40 Park Ave, Rutherford, NJ 07070, (201) 340-4171

Restaurants Near Rutherford NJ

Is Rutherford NJ a good place to live if you enjoy fine dining and eating out? Yes, there are plenty of delicious options to explore when residing here.

Jobs Rutherford NJ

Is Rutherford NJ a good place to live as a business professional? Jobs in Rutherford NJ are abundant, but knowing where to look is key. The leading industries in the Rutherford area are manufacturing, construction, healthcare, information technology (IT), and supply chain. Bergen County is considered a corporate community, and business professionals thrive here.

Hackensack University Medical Center, Valley Health Systems, Holy Name Medical Center, Teaneck, and Englewood Hospital and Medical Center are the county’s major employers. Rutherford Regional Health System is another great option.

If you’re unsure what you’ll likely earn after moving here, ZipRecruiter says the average hourly wage is $37, and the average salary is $77,616.

Rutherford Schools

Is Rutherford NJ a good place to live for students? Rutherford Public Schools serves k-12 public school residents, but there are also excellent private school options.

List of Rutherford NJ Schools

Rutherford High School - public
Pierrepont School - public
Union School - public
Rutherford Montessori School - private
Lincoln School - public
Washington School - public
Kindergarten Center - public
St. Mary’s High School - private

Ruther Public Schools has a reputation for upholding the highest education standards. The student-to-teacher ratio is 12:1, and the graduation rate is 97%, compared to the state's 91%. According to Great Schools, 86% of students pursue a college degree or other vocational program.

Felician University

Felician University is the nearest college to Rutherford, providing advanced education options for nearby residents.

Rutherford Statistics & Information

Rutherford County: Bergen County
Rutherford area: 2.89 square miles
Rutherford zip code: 07070
Rutherford area code: 201
Rutherford elevation: 66 feet
Rutherford time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-4 and -5)
Closest airport to Rutherford: Newark Liberty International Airport is 10.9 miles from Rutherford

Rutherford Map

Map of Rutherford

Moving to Rutherford With Harrington Moving & Storage

Is Rutherford a good place to live? As you can see, this New Jersey borough has so much to offer. If you’re ready to call it your new home, call Harrington Moving & Storage at (973) 313-2246 for a free quote. We have the best Rutherford NJ movers ready to serve you.