Moving to Woodcliff Lake: What It’s Really Like Living in Woodcliff Lake NJ 🏡
If you’re thinking about moving to Woodcliff Lake, you’re looking at one of Bergen County’s most desirable towns. Tucked into northern New Jersey, Woodcliff Lake NJ is known for its manicured neighborhoods, excellent schools, corporate headquarters, and a calm, residential atmosphere that still feels connected to the wider New York metro area.
Living in Woodcliff Lake NJ offers a balance that’s increasingly hard to find: suburban privacy paired with real convenience. The borough is home to large single-family homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community, while also hosting major employers and easy access to Route 17, the Garden State Parkway, and nearby commuter rail stations.
Historically, Woodcliff Lake began as a rural farming area before evolving into the residential and business hub it is today. The borough takes its name from the lake that sits at its center, originally created as a reservoir and now a defining feature of the town’s identity.
Whether you’re researching Woodcliff Lake NJ real estate, schools, commute options, or day-to-day lifestyle, this guide breaks down everything you need to know before making the move.
Where Is Woodcliff Lake NJ?
Woodcliff Lake NJ is located in Bergen County, New Jersey, in the northeastern part of the state. Woodcliff Lake sits within the New York metropolitan area and is considered one of Bergen County’s more established suburban communities, offering a quieter residential setting while remaining closely connected to major job centers.
Woodcliff Lake NJ is bordered by towns such as Park Ridge, Hillsdale, Montvale, Saddle River, and Upper Saddle River. These nearby communities share similar suburban characteristics and access to regional highways, making the area especially attractive for commuters and families moving to Woodcliff Lake.
Woodcliff Lake is approximately 30 miles north of Midtown Manhattan, making it a feasible commute for professionals working in New York City. It’s also about 15 miles from the George Washington Bridge and roughly 10 miles from Hackensack, Bergen County’s largest city.
Public transportation options are limited within Woodcliff Lake itself, as it is a car-dependent suburb. However, nearby NJ Transit train stations in Park Ridge, Hillsdale, and Montvale provide access to the Pascack Valley Line, offering service to Hoboken Terminal with connections into Manhattan. Major highways like Route 17, the Garden State Parkway, and Route 287 make driving to surrounding cities and employment hubs straightforward for residents living in Woodcliff Lake NJ.
Woodcliff Lake NJ Population & Demographics
What is the population of Woodcliff Lake NJ? According to the 2020 U.S. Census, 6,128 people live in the borough. Despite its small size, moving to Woodcliff Lake often appeals to households looking for privacy, stability, and one of the highest income and education profiles in Bergen County.
Living in Woodcliff Lake NJ skews older and highly educated. The median age is 45.4, reflecting a mix of established professionals, families with older children, and long-time residents. About 11.5% of the population is foreign-born, and household earnings are among the strongest in the region, with a household median income of $213,981. Educational attainment is especially notable, with 81.2% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Woodcliff Lake NJ demographics:
- Median age: 45.4 years
- Foreign-born population: 11.5%
- Median household income: $213,981
- Bachelor’s degree or higher: 81.2%
Racial & ethnic composition:
- 82.4% White
- 80.9% White, non-Hispanic
- 8.8% Asian
- 0.8% Black or African American
- 0.2% American Indian or Alaska Native
- 2.2% Some other race
- 5.6% Two or more races
- 6.6% Hispanic or Latino (of any race)
Notable people from Woodcliff Lake include Jack Antonoff (Grammy-winning producer and musician), Kerri Green (actress, The Goonies), and Tom Papa (comedian and television host).
Is Woodcliff Lake NJ safe? Yes, Woodcliff Lake is considered a very safe place to live. According to FBI UCR data, the borough recorded 46 total crimes in 2024, for a total crime rate of 735.29 per 100,000 residents. While that represents a 7% increase year over year, crime levels remain low compared to state and national averages, reinforcing why many families feel confident living in Woodcliff Lake NJ.
Cost of Living in Woodcliff Lake NJ
Is living in Woodcliff Lake NJ expensive? Yes, moving to Woodcliff Lake means stepping into one of Bergen County’s most affluent and high-cost communities. The broader Newark metro area has a cost of living index of 121.4, well above the national average, and Woodcliff Lake sits at the upper end of that range due to its housing market and household income levels.
According to the Economic Policy Institute Family Budget Calculator for the Bergen–Passaic metro area, a family of four would need to earn approximately $127,385 per year (about $10,615 per month) to live comfortably. Daily expenses like groceries and utilities are elevated but consistent with other upscale North Jersey suburbs.
Typical Woodcliff Lake living expenses
(Sourced from Numbeo using Bergen County data as the closest benchmark)
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $22.50
- Milk (1 liter): $1.28
- Fresh white bread (1 pound loaf): $3.75
- Monthly public transportation pass: $170
- Gasoline (1 liter): $0.86
- Average Woodcliff Lake utilities per month (electric, water, heating, cooling, garbage): $146.17
- Woodcliff Lake fitness club membership: $100/month
Woodcliff Lake NJ Real Estate
Woodcliff Lake real estate is one of the most expensive markets in northern New Jersey. According to Redfin, the median home sale price is $1.2 million, up 29% year over year, reflecting strong demand and limited inventory. Homes typically sell quickly, and the median price per square foot is $424, also rising sharply.
For renters, options are more limited than in nearby cities, but they do exist. Zillow reports the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Woodcliff Lake at approximately $3,900 per month, aligning with the borough’s luxury-oriented housing stock.
Woodcliff Lake NJ Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Woodcliff Lake
Because it’s a small borough, living in Woodcliff Lake NJ doesn’t revolve around sharply defined neighborhoods the way it does in larger cities. Instead, the community is made up of quiet residential pockets shaped by spacious homes, local roads, schools, and shared amenities. For those moving to Woodcliff Lake, the appeal is consistency—well-kept homes, low traffic, and a uniform sense of privacy throughout town.
That said, locals often refer to a few informal areas when describing where they live.
Campbell Area – Established Homes and Central Access
The Campbell area is one of the more recognized residential pockets in Woodcliff Lake. The beautiful homes here are primarily large single-family properties on landscaped lots, many built in the mid-to-late 20th century. Residents enjoy easy access to local schools, parks, and main roadways, making this area popular with families who want space without feeling isolated.
Clairmont Area – Quiet Streets and Upscale Living
The Clairmont area is known for its calm, residential feel and upscale housing stock. Streets tend to be quieter, with newer or extensively renovated homes and a more secluded atmosphere. For buyers moving to Woodcliff Lake who value privacy and a refined suburban setting, this part of town is especially appealing.
Woodcliff Lake NJ Weather & Climate
One of the benefits of living in Woodcliff Lake NJ is experiencing all four seasons without extreme weather. The borough has a humid continental climate, typical of northern New Jersey, with warm summers, crisp falls, cold winters, and mild, colorful springs.
Summer temperatures in Woodcliff Lake NJ usually peak in the mid-80s°F, with July being the warmest month. Winters are cold but manageable, with average January lows around the mid-20s°F and occasional snowfall that adds to the area’s seasonal charm. Annual snowfall generally ranges between 25 and 30 inches, while rainfall averages about 48 inches per year, spread fairly evenly across seasons.
Many residents find that late spring and early fall offer the most comfortable conditions. These months bring lower humidity, mild daytime temperatures, and ideal weather for outdoor activities—another reason moving to Woodcliff Lake appeals to those who enjoy seasonal variety without harsh extremes.
Things To Do In Woodcliff Lake NJ
Even though it’s a small, mainly residential community, you’ll still find a variety of enjoyable things to do while living in Woodcliff Lake NJ. For everyday shopping and errands, residents rely on Van Riper Plaza and Chestnut Ridge Shopping Center, both conveniently located nearby. Beyond shopping, these are some of the places most residents frequent after moving to Woodcliff Lake.
Wood Dale County Park
Wood Dale County Park is a popular local escape for community recreation featuring walking paths, open green space, a playground, and a scenic pond with a fishing pier. It’s one of the best places to unwind outdoors while living in Woodcliff Lake, especially on a weekend afternoon.
100 Prospect Ave, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677 (201) 336-7275
Woodcliff Lake Municipal Pool
Looking to cool off during the summer? The Woodcliff Lake Municipal Pool offers a large community pool, a kiddie pool, and seasonal programming, making it a go-to spot for families living in Woodcliff Lake NJ.
1 Werimus Rd, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
Wortendyke Barn
The Wortendyke Barn is a historic landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It hosts exhibits and community events focused on local history and agriculture, offering insight into how Woodcliff Lake has evolved over time.
13 Pascack Rd, Park Ridge, NJ 07656 (201) 930-0124
Additional Woodcliff Lake attractions:
Searching for more activities while living in Woodcliff Lake? The Woodcliff Lake NJ Recreation Department maintains a full list of community programs, sports leagues, and seasonal events available to residents.
Restaurants In Woodcliff Lake NJ
While living in Woodcliff Lake NJ means a quieter, residential setting, residents still have access to several well-regarded dining options right in town. These local favorites are frequently mentioned by people moving to Woodcliff Lake who want quality meals without driving far.
Aegean Estiatorio
Aegean Estiatorio is a longtime local staple serving traditional Greek cuisine. Known for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and classic Mediterranean dishes, it’s a popular choice for both family dinners and special occasions.
99 Park Ave, Park Ridge, NJ 07656 (201) 476-1400
Pesto Italian Bistro
Pesto Italian Bistro offers a relaxed setting with a menu focused on Italian comfort food. Handmade pastas, brick-oven pizzas, and seasonal specials make it a reliable neighborhood go-to for residents living in Woodcliff Lake.
168F Kinderkamack Rd, Park Ridge, NJ 07656 (201) 690-6101
Leblon Steak
Leblon Steak brings a Brazilian steakhouse experience to Woodcliff Lake, featuring a variety of grilled meats, traditional sides, and a lively dining atmosphere. It’s especially popular for group dinners and celebrations.
295 Kinderkamack Rd, Hillsdale, NJ 07642 (201) 367-1623
Jobs In Woodcliff Lake NJ
Looking for jobs in Woodcliff Lake NJ? While the borough itself is largely residential, its location in Bergen County places residents close to some of northern New Jersey’s largest employment centers. Many people living in Woodcliff Lake commute to nearby corporate corridors along Route 17 and into surrounding towns like Paramus, Mahwah, and Hackensack.
Major employers in the area include Hackensack Meridian Health, one of the region’s largest healthcare systems, Jaguar Land Rover North America, which maintains corporate offices nearby, and ADP, a major payroll and human resources services company with a significant North Jersey presence. These employers support jobs in healthcare, corporate management, technology, and professional services.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary in Woodcliff Lake is $80,991, reflecting the area’s strong concentration of professional and executive-level workers. This access to high-paying regional jobs is a key reason many professionals consider moving to Woodcliff Lake.
Schools in Woodcliff Lake NJ
Education is a major draw for families moving to Woodcliff Lake, and the borough is served by top-rated schools in Bergen County.
Public Schools
Woodcliff Lake is part of the Woodcliff Lake School District, which serves elementary and middle school students locally:
- Dorchester Elementary School (Grades K–5)
- Woodcliff Middle School (Grades 6–8)
For high school, students attend Pascack Hills High School, located in nearby Montvale and known for its strong academics and extracurricular programs.
Private Schools
Families seeking private education while living in Woodcliff Lake NJ often consider nearby options such as Immaculate Heart Academy and Academy of the Holy Angels, both respected college-preparatory schools.
Woodcliff Lake NJ Statistics & Information
Here’s a quick-reference snapshot for anyone moving to Woodcliff Lake or researching key Woodcliff Lake NJ information:
- County: Bergen County
- Municipality type: Borough
- Woodcliff Lake NJ area: Approximately 3.6 square miles
- Woodcliff Lake NJ ZIP code: 07677
- Woodcliff Lake NJ rea code(s): 201, 551
- Woodcliff Lake NJ elevation: About 289 feet above sea level
- Woodcliff Lake NJ time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC −5 / −4)
- Closest major airport: Newark Liberty International Airport, approximately 25 miles south
FAQ
Is Woodcliff Lake NJ a Good Place to Live?
Yes. Living in Woodcliff Lake NJ is especially appealing for families and professionals seeking a quiet, upscale suburban environment. The borough is known for low crime, excellent schools, and strong property values, while still offering convenient access to Bergen County job centers and New York City.
Is Woodcliff Lake NJ Expensive?
Yes, Woodcliff Lake is considered one of the more expensive places to live in Bergen County. Housing costs are the primary driver, with median home prices exceeding $1 million, though higher household incomes help offset the cost of living for many residents.
Is Woodcliff Lake NJ Family-Friendly?
Woodcliff Lake is widely regarded as a family-friendly community. Woodcliff Lake offers well-rated public schools, natural beauty, local parks, youth recreation programs, and a strong sense of community involvement, making it a popular choice for families moving to Woodcliff Lake.
Do You Need a Car When Living in Woodcliff Lake NJ?
Yes, most residents rely on a car when living in Woodcliff Lake NJ. While nearby NJ Transit stations provide commuter rail access, the borough itself is car-dependent, and driving is the most practical way to get around for daily errands and commuting.
Map of Woodcliff Lake NJ
Ready to Make Moving to Woodcliff Lake a Reality?
If you’re considering moving to Woodcliff Lake, you’re choosing one of Bergen County’s most established and desirable places to call home. With its strong schools, low crime, upscale housing market, and convenient access to major employment hubs, living in Woodcliff Lake NJ offers long-term stability and a high quality of life.
When you’re ready to make the move, Harrington Moving & Storage is here to help. Our Woodcliff Lake NJ movers understand the logistics of relocating within Bergen County and can make your transition smooth and stress-free. Call (973) 313-2246 today to get started with your move to Woodcliff Lake.
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