Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ridgewood, NJ
Considering Ridgewood, NJ for your next move? This charming suburb of 25,179 residents is known for its top-ranked schools, high educational attainment (over 80% hold a bachelor’s or higher), and exceptionally low crime rates (violent crime just 30 per 100K). The median home price is $950,000 and rents average $2,450, reflecting Ridgewood’s desirable status. Residents enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere, excellent public transit access, and a classic four-season climate—making Ridgewood a standout choice for those seeking safety, quality education, and a vibrant community.
Demographics - Ridgewood, NJ
Demographics - Ridgewood, NJ
Ridgewood is a suburban community of 25,179 residents with a median age of 41.3, reflecting a balanced, family-oriented population. The area is predominantly White (80.3%) with a notable Asian presence (13.6%) and a diverse mix of backgrounds, including 14.2% non-English speakers. With a moderate population density, Ridgewood offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for newcomers.
Population:
25,179
Density:
4,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.3
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
80.3%
Black:
1.8%
Asian:
13.6%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ridgewood, NJ?
Ridgewood's cost of living is significantly above the national average, driven by a median home value of $950,000 and average rents of $2,450. Utilities, groceries, and transportation also trend higher, making the area best suited for those with higher incomes. Despite these costs, the community benefits from quality amenities and a desirable suburban setting.
Median House Value:
$950,000
Gross Rent:
$2,450
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,800
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,100
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
161.8
Grocery:
120.5
Housing:
210.3
Utilities:
112.0
Transportation:
123.0
Health Care:
113.5
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is Ridgewood, NJ a safe place to live?
Ridgewood is known for its low crime rates, with just 30 violent crimes and 390 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Residents enjoy a strong sense of safety, with the chance of experiencing violent crime at just 1 in 3,333. This secure environment is a key draw for families and those seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
30
Property Crimes Per 100k:
390
Crime Index:
420
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 3,333
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 256
Weather
What is the weather like in Ridgewood, NJ year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging between 23°F and 38°F and warm summers reaching up to 85°F. The area receives about 48 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 56% of the year. This classic New Jersey climate supports a vibrant outdoor lifestyle throughout the seasons.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The community is affluent, with a median household income of $206,500 and a low poverty rate of 2.1%. Nearly 22% of residents use public transportation, and commute times average around 42 minutes, reflecting strong connections to nearby job centers. Education attainment is high, with over 80% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Median Income:
$78,500
Household Income:
$206,500
Family Income:
$232,000
Per Capita Income:
$89,400
Income Male:
$115,000
Income Female:
$86,000
Poverty Rate:
2.1%
Non English Speakers:
14.2%
Rent:
$2,450
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
22.4%
Commute Time:
41.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.4%
Bachelors or More:
80.8%
Education
How are the schools in Ridgewood, NJ?
Ridgewood is renowned for its top-rated public schools, such as Ridgewood High School, and offers a range of private and nearby collegiate options. Class sizes are favorable, with student-teacher ratios around 13:1, and over 80% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This strong educational environment makes the city especially appealing to families.
Public Schools
Name:
Ridgewood High School
Street:
627 E Ridgewood Ave
Phone:
201-670-2800
Students:
1,750
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Benjamin Franklin Middle School
Street:
335 N Van Dien Ave
Phone:
201-670-2780
Students:
770
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7
Private Schools
Name:
Academy of Our Lady
Street:
180 Rodney St
Phone:
201-445-0622
Students:
320
Colleges
Name:
Bergen Community College
City:
Paramus
State:
NJ
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
13,500
Name:
Ramapo College of New Jersey
City:
Mahwah
State:
NJ
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
5,800
Healthcare
Ridgewood offers excellent healthcare access, anchored by Valley Hospital, which provides comprehensive emergency and surgical services. With 3.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 98% health insurance coverage, residents enjoy a high standard of care. The area’s healthcare infrastructure supports both families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Valley Hospital
Address:
223 N Van Dien Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Phone:
(201) 447-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.8%
Health Care Index:
81.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ridgewood, NJ?
Ridgewood’s housing market is robust, with a median home price of $950,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of nearly 78%. Home values have appreciated by over 7% in the past year, while rental vacancies remain low at 3.1%, underlining the area's desirability and investment potential. Limited new construction keeps supply tight, further supporting property values.
Median Home Price:
$950,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,450
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Motor vehicle services for Ridgewood residents are managed by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, located in Trenton. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV services both in person and online, making it convenient to handle vehicle-related needs. Helpful support is available via their website or direct phone line.
State:
New Jersey
Department:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Address:
225 E. State Street, Trenton, NJ 08666
Phone:
1-609-292-6500
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.