Why Bergenfield, NJ Is One of Bergen County’s Most Diverse and Welcoming Communities

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Introduction

Nestled between Teaneck, Dumont, and Tenafly, Bergenfield, New Jersey has quietly become one of Bergen County’s most vibrant, diverse, and family-friendly towns. It offers a unique blend of small-town warmth and metropolitan convenience, making it highly attractive to those seeking balance in the greater New York area. With highly rated schools, beautiful parks, and a thriving cultural neighborhood fueled by diverse local businesses, Bergenfield provides an authentic, welcoming atmosphere that makes it a natural choice for families. 

For anyone moving to Bergenfield, NJ, the town offers something rare: a genuine sense of belonging right from the start. Residents appreciate the safety and stability of the community, easy commute to Manhattan via public transit for professionals, which checks every box. Bergenfield is a place where families can truly put down roots, enjoying accessible local amenities and a supportive environment.

A Welcoming Community with Deep Roots

Founded in the late 19th century, Bergenfield has evolved from a quiet farming village into one of North Jersey’s most dynamic suburbs. Today, over 28,000 residents call it home, representing a rich tapestry of cultures, including Filipino, Hispanic, African-American, Caribbean, South Asian, and many others. This unique blend of backgrounds is the core of Bergenfield’s energy and warmth.

Here, community pride runs deep. Take a walk down Main Street on a weekend and you’ll witness this spirit firsthand. You’ll find families shopping at local bakeries, neighbors greeting each other by name, and music flowing from small cultural festivals to celebrate everything from Independence Day to traditional Filipino fiestas. 

That local warmth isn’t just a marketing slogan, it’s a lived reality. Residents often describe Bergenfield as “the kind of town where you can knock on a neighbor’s door and borrow sugar without thinking twice.”

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Why Families Love Living in Bergenfield

1. Excellent Schools and Family Programs 

Families moving to Bergenfield often choose it for its high-performing public school system. According to Niche’s 2025 rankings, Bergenfield High School and its feeder elementary schools scored above state averages for academics, diversity, and extracurricular engagement. Beyond the core curriculum, the district offers robust music and athletics programs, such as concerts, games, and seasonal parades, that play a vital role in community life, frequently bringing residents together.

2. Safe Streets and Strong Community Policing 

Safety is a major, non-negotiable reason why families choose to stay in Bergenfield long-term. Bergenfield consistently ranks among the safest towns in Bergen County, with a responsive local police department and neighborhood watch programs that encourage residents to look out for one another. Thus, it’s not uncommon to see children walking to school or families out for evening strolls even after dark, a testament to community trust. 

3. Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces 

For those who value an active lifestyle, Bergenfield is built for outdoor living, boasting more than a dozen parks and easily accessible green spaces. Twin-Boro Park is a local favorite with walking trails, baseball fields, and playgrounds suitable for all ages. There’s another Cooper’s Pond, which offers a picturesque setting perfect for a tranquil escape for picnics, fishing, or weekend photography. Furthermore, many nearby towns like Dumont’s Memorial Park and Tenafly’s Nature Center extend that green network for easy weekend adventures. 

Neighborhoods with Character and Connection

Bergenfield is far from a one-size-fits-all town. Instead, the borough is defined by several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own rhythm and charm, making it remarkably easy for newcomers to find the perfect residential fit.

East Clinton Avenue District: This desirable area is characterized by its quiet, deeply tree-lined streets and a collection of well-maintained historic homes, blending classic small-town architecture with crucial city access. It’s especially popular among first-time homeowners and growing families seeking architectural character without paying the high price tags typically associated with Manhattan.

South Washington Avenue Corridor: Located close to Bergenfield’s bustling downtown area, this corridor offers prime walkable access to the town’s best restaurants, essential groceries, and local cafes. Its immediate convenience and proximity to commuter routes make it a major hit with commuters, young professionals, and those who prefer a dynamic, urban-like pace.

Twin-Boro Park Neighborhood: This area is one of the favorites for families. It features quiet cul-de-sacs and immediate access to the Twin-Boro Park, playgrounds, sports fields, and regular community events. The focus here is on safety and recreation, fostering a strong, child-centered environment.

Nearby Towns to Know: Bergenfield’s central location puts residents minutes away from neighboring hubs like Teaneck, Englewood, Dumont, and Tenafly. Each of these nearby towns has its own shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. That proximity not only offers convenience, but also creates a broader community network for social life and schooling options. 

A Mosaic of Cultures and Traditions

Bergenfield is often called one of New Jersey’s most diverse towns, and for good reason. The town has rich demographics with one of the largest Filipino-American populations in the state, alongside strong Hispanic, Caribbean, and South Asian communities. This celebrated diversity is more than just a statistic—it’s cultural, culinary, and deeply personal, infusing the town with vitality. 

The cultural richness extends through annual Bergenfield Filipino Festival, Caribbean Heritage Day, and Latin Music in the Park events, bringing residents together to share traditions, food, and music. Local eateries are a true reflection of this mix. Filipino bakeries, Dominican restaurants, and traditional Italian delis sit side by side along the vibrant Main Street, creating a unique culinary landscape.

In Bergenfield, diversity isn’t simply about coexistence. It’s about active collaboration and inclusion. Schools host engaging multicultural nights, churches and mosques co-sponsor charity drives, and the town’s leadership prioritizes inclusion in every civic program. This commitment ensures that all families, regardless of background, feel seen, valued, and connected to the broader community fabric.

Life in Motion: Commuting and Connectivity

For daily commuters, Bergenfield truly offers the best of both worlds: easy, practical access to New York City without the crushing cost or congestion of living closer to the Hudson River. Commuting is straightforward thanks to excellent public transit options. Express buses to Manhattan’s Port Authority run regularly via NJ Transit routes, and nearby train stations in Tenafly and Englewood make a rail commute a breezy alternative.

Beyond public transit, the town is a hub for regional driving access. Major highways like Route 4, the Garden State Parkway, and I-80 are just minutes away, providing quick connections across New Jersey and into the city.

Add to this logistical ease the proximity to world-class shopping centers like Paramus Park and the luxurious Riverside Square Mall, and you achieve the perfect suburban comfort balanced with genuine urban convenience. Crucially for families with children, these short travel times translate directly into a higher quality of life, meaning more quality time at home and significantly less stress balancing work, school, and recreation. Bergenfield makes staying connected simple.

Cost of Living and Housing

One of Bergenfield’s most compelling features is the exceptional value it provides for housing. Compared to affluent neighboring towns such as Englewood Cliffs or Tenafly, Bergenfield offers significantly more affordable housing options without sacrificing the high quality of life, excellent schools, and connectivity that define Bergen County.

The housing market here presents an accessible entry point for buyers. Single-family homes typically average between $520,000 and $560,000, a highly competitive price point for this desirable area. For those not ready to buy, rental options are steadily available, particularly near the convenient downtown corridor.

This crucial balance of affordability and accessibility makes Bergenfield uniquely attractive. It’s a natural landing spot for young families relocating from New York City who are seeking space and value, and it’s also ideal for empty nesters looking to downsize from larger Bergen County homes while remaining close to their community roots and essential amenities. Bergenfield lets you maximize your investment without compromising on location or quality.

Relocating to Bergenfield: A Local’s Guide

Whether you’re moving across town or making a big transition from another state, settling into Bergenfield is refreshingly straightforward thanks to accessible local resources. Here’s a quick guide on what you should know to get started in your new town:

  • Permits & Utilities: Simplify your setup by visiting Bergenfield.org. New residents can easily apply for necessary parking permits and set up essential services like water and trash collection directly through the borough website.
  • Schools & Registration: If you have school-aged children, detailed enrollment information and school zone maps are available online at bergenfield.org/schools. This is the first stop for registering students.
  • Community Life: Join the Bergenfield Facebook group or visit the Recreation Department’s page to immediately plug into the local scene. These are your best sources for event listings, volunteer opportunities, and program updates. 
  • Moving Help: Local movers like Moving of America specialize in residential moves throughout Bergen County. Our team ensures every step of the process, from professional packing and secure transport to efficient setup in your new home is handled with care.

 

Answer Card: Why Bergenfield NJ Is a Great Place to Live 

Question: Is Bergenfield NJ a good place to live?
Direct Answer:
Yes. Bergenfield, NJ is one of Bergen County’s most welcoming and diverse communities. It offers top-rated schools, affordable homes, and a vibrant mix of cultures that make new residents feel at home immediately. The town’s central location provides quick access to major highways and New York City, while its local parks, festivals, and family programs create a true sense of belonging. Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Niche 2025 Rankings; Bergenfield.org.

Moving to Bergenfield? Here’s How Moving of America Can Help

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Relocation can often feel overwhelming, but it truly doesn’t have to be. Moving of America has been the trusted partner helping families and professionals move throughout Bergen County for over 25 years, offering unparalleled local expertise and personalized service right to your doorstep.

We simplify the entire process. From detailed, professional packing to secure, flexible storage solutions and careful transport, our expert team ensures a smooth and effortless transition into your new Bergenfield home. Whether you’re relocating from an apartment in Hoboken, a house in the Bronx, or simply moving just down the block, our local movers know exactly how to navigate the challenges of Northern New Jersey to make the process stress-free. Trust the local experts to handle the heavy lifting while you focus on settling into your vibrant new community.

fast, friendly, and transparent pricing for every Bergenfield move. 

Conclusion: Bergenfield Welcomes You Home

From its celebrated cultural diversity to its genuine, family-first atmosphere, Bergenfield, NJ, truly represents the best of Bergen County living. Its winning mix of housing affordability, excellent regional accessibility, and deep community warmth makes it a perfect, well-rounded destination for anyone seeking a new and vibrant beginning in North Jersey.

When you’re finally ready to start your journey and make Bergenfield your own, Moving of America is here to help you every step of the way. We approach every move with the same core values: care, complete transparency, and a deep understanding of what it means to feel settled and truly at home.

make your move to Bergenfield simple, seamless, and stress-free. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Bergenfield

1. What is the cost of living in Bergenfield, NJ?
Bergenfield’s cost of living is slightly higher than the national average but below that of nearby towns like Tenafly or Englewood. Housing and utilities remain affordable compared to NYC suburbs, making it attractive for families.

2. What schools serve Bergenfield residents?
The Bergenfield School District includes five elementary schools, a middle school, and a top-rated high school, all known for academic excellence and extracurricular variety.

3. How far is Bergenfield from New York City?
It’s roughly 12 miles from midtown Manhattan, with express buses and nearby train stations providing direct access in 35–45 minutes.

4. What kinds of homes are available in Bergenfield?
Buyers can find a mix of single-family colonials, ranches, and townhomes. Many streets feature classic 1950s architecture mixed with modern renovations.

5. What are the best neighborhoods in Bergenfield?
Popular options include East Clinton Avenue, Twin-Boro Park, and the South Washington corridor—all offering safe streets, strong schools, and local amenities.

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