The Complete Guide to Moving to Northern New Jersey
Thinking about relocating to Bergen or Hudson County? Here's everything you need to know, from choosing the right town to navigating the moving process.
Moving to Northern New Jersey is one of the best decisions many families make, but it comes with a learning curve. The region's mix of suburban tranquility and urban energy, its proximity to Manhattan, and its rich cultural diversity make it unlike anywhere else in the country. Here's a practical guide to help you navigate the transition.
Start With the Town, Not the House
The biggest mistake relocators make is starting their search with listings instead of neighborhoods. Northern NJ is a patchwork of distinct communities, and the right town for you depends on your priorities. A young professional who walks to work in Hoboken has completely different needs than a family looking for acreage in Englewood Cliffs.
Consider these factors first: commute tolerance (10 minutes or 60?), school requirements (top-rated district or private options?), lifestyle preference (walkable urban or spacious suburban?), and budget (factoring in NJ's notoriously high property taxes).
Bergen County vs. Hudson County
These two counties are neighbors but offer very different lifestyles. Bergen County is suburban in character, with tree-lined neighborhoods, larger lots, top-rated schools, and that unique Blue Laws tradition that closes retail stores on Sundays. Towns like Fort Lee, Englewood, Teaneck, and Leonia define this character.
Hudson County is denser, more urban, and more transit-oriented. Hoboken, Jersey City, and Weehawken offer walkable streets, PATH train access to Manhattan, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. If you want to feel like you live in a city but with slightly more space and better value, Hudson County is your answer.
The Commute Equation
Your daily commute will shape your life in Northern NJ more than almost any other factor. The GW Bridge connects Bergen County to Manhattan, with tolls of $14.79-$16.79 per crossing (E-ZPass). The PATH train from Hudson County costs $3.25 per ride (as of May 2026) and runs 24/7. NY Waterway ferries offer the most scenic commute option, with a temporary fuel surcharge in effect. NJ Transit buses are the affordable workhorse for Bergen County commuters.
My advice: test your commute before you commit. Drive it at rush hour. Take the bus. Ride the ferry. The daily reality of your commute will matter more than you think.
Property Taxes: The Elephant in the Room
New Jersey has the highest property taxes in the nation. In Bergen and Hudson Counties, annual taxes can range from $8,000 to $25,000+ depending on the town and your home's assessed value. This isn't something to fear, but it is something to plan for. Work with your real estate advisor to understand the tax implications before you make an offer.
The Moving Timeline
For out-of-state relocators, I recommend a 3-6 month lead time. Start with research and mortgage pre-approval in months one and two. Visit in person to tour neighborhoods in month three. Begin your home search in months three through five, and aim for a closing that gives you a month of overlap for the actual move.
Settling In
Once you've moved, take time to explore your new community. Walk to the local coffee shop. Visit the farmers market. Sign up for the community center's programs. Northern NJ rewards curiosity, and the sooner you engage with your neighborhood, the sooner it starts to feel like home.
And if you ever have questions about your new town, from which grocery store has the best produce to which park has the best playground, I'm always here to help.