If you’re searching for the perfect balance of suburban charm and urban convenience in Bergen County, Closter should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the northern valley, this borough of roughly 8,500 residents consistently ranks among the best places to live in New Jersey — and once you visit, it’s easy to see why.
As a Bergen County real estate specialist, I’ve helped families find their dream homes across the county. Here are the top five reasons why my clients keep choosing Closter.
1. Top-Rated Schools That Set Kids Up for Success
For families, the decision to move often starts with one question: how are the schools? In Closter, the answer is exceptional. Hillside Elementary and Tenakill Middle School both earn A-level ratings, and students go on to attend Northern Valley Regional High School at Demarest — one of the highest-performing public high schools in the state.
With over 66% of Closter’s adult population holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, education is deeply woven into the community’s DNA. The schools host regular community events throughout the year, making families feel connected from day one.
2. One of the Safest Communities in New Jersey
Safety is non-negotiable when choosing where to raise a family or invest in a home. Closter delivers with some of the lowest crime rates in the entire state. Violent crime is virtually nonexistent here, and overall crime sits well below both state and national averages.
This peace of mind is one of the biggest reasons my clients — especially young families and professionals relocating from New York City — choose Closter over other Bergen County towns.
3. A Revitalized Downtown That Has Everything You Need
Closter’s transformation over the past decade has been remarkable. The redevelopment of Closter Plaza turned a dated shopping center into a vibrant 16-acre retail and dining destination. Today, you’ll find Whole Foods, Target, HomeGoods, Lululemon, boutique fitness studios like Orangetheory and CycleBar, and a growing collection of standout restaurants.
This isn’t just convenient — it’s made Closter the commercial hub for the entire Northern Valley. Residents love that they can handle their weekly errands, grab a great meal, and catch up with neighbors all within walking distance.
4. Easy Access to New York City
Location is everything in Bergen County real estate, and Closter sits in a sweet spot. The George Washington Bridge is under 20 minutes away, and NJ Transit’s Route 167 bus line offers direct service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan, making car-free commuting entirely practical.
Whether you work in the city or just want easy access to Manhattan’s dining, culture, and entertainment, Closter keeps you connected without the chaos of city living.
5. A Diverse, Welcoming Community with Genuine Character
Closter isn’t just a place to live — it’s a community people genuinely love. The borough is one of the most ethnically diverse towns in Bergen County, with a rich mix of cultures that shows up in its restaurants, community events, and local businesses.
Families enjoy nearly ten public parks, a well-maintained nature center, seasonal farmers’ markets, and an active recreation department. The median household income sits around $187,500, reflecting a community that’s established and invested in maintaining what makes Closter special.
Longtime residents will tell you that Closter has evolved from a quiet small town into something truly dynamic — without losing the warmth and neighborly feel that drew people here in the first place.
Ready to Make Closter Home?
As a Bergen County real estate expert, I know every street, school district, and hidden gem in Closter. Whether you’re relocating from NYC, upsizing for a growing family, or looking for your first home in the Northern Valley, I’ll help you navigate the market and find the right fit.
Tom Lee | NJNest
Phone: 848-565-1425
Email: tom@njnest.com
Website: njnest.com
Tom Lee is a licensed real estate agent with 2Win Realty, specializing in Bergen County residential real estate. With deep local expertise and a client-first approach, Tom helps buyers and sellers across all 70 Bergen County municipalities make confident real estate decisions.
