Best Bergen County Communities for Buyers Who Want Less Traffic in Daily Life
While Bergen County offers buyers access to New York City, large highways, and shopping districts, the roads can sometimes be quite busy, or the areas can be quite hectic. Fortunately, there are smaller suburbs where residents can escape some of the traffic while still enjoying the perks nearby. No town in Bergen County is free of traffic, especially during drop-off and weekday rush hours. The communities below can be considered ‘less traffic’ due to the lack of commercial development, lower density, or residential streets that are further from the county’s busiest shopping districts.
Keep reading if you are interested in relocating to the best communities for buyers who want less traffic in their daily lives.
What Does “Less Traffic” Mean in a Bergen County Town?
For many buyers, it can also mean a lengthy or hectic drive. Less traffic does not necessarily mean a shorter drive; it could also mean fewer cars on the street, less competition for available parking in neighborhoods, or an ability to conduct daily errands without driving through a major retail district. Buyers should research a specific street as diligently as the community: A home along a county, school, or municipal road could see far more activity than a residence several blocks inside a neighborhood.
Rockleigh
Rockleigh offers one of the most private and low-density residential environments in Bergen County. The borough is home to only under 500 residents and does not host any traditional downtown or commercial development.
The wooded surroundings lend a far more rural feel in comparison to many surrounding communities. The balance of larger homes and plenty of acreage adds to the feeling of space and separation. The only downside is that Rockleigh residents find themselves driving to neighboring cities for groceries, restaurants, and general shopping. There is also a severe lack of housing inventory, and what is available is typically high-end housing or estates.
Why does Harrington Park feel removed from major corridors?
Harrington Park is often described as quiet and secluded. The borough does not host large malls or supermarkets, which helps the community stand out as more of a residential area, free from the constant consumer traffic associated with larger retail chains. The local parks, recreation centers, and community events can often serve as alternatives to bigger shopping centers. While the borough lacks local stores, the buyer can still enjoy the local commute into shopping or working in nearby towns.
Haworth
Haworth is a small residential borough in Bergen County with a traditional look and vibe. It is ideal for those wishing to escape the larger downtowns and commercial corridors of the northern towns while still being relatively close.
Many streets boast detached homes, established trees, and homes set far back from roadways. The community can also be quite close to the shops and services found in neighboring Closter. According to The Akkus Group, Haworth seems to be the preferred community for those seeking a less intensive, more low-key residential neighborhood. The borough is described as “a small friendly suburb.” This community has the balance of space, privacy, and proximity to the necessities.
Is Old Tappan a Good Fit For a Slower Pace of Life?
Old Tappan may appeal to those seeking larger residential surroundings that are still close to the road leading towards the New York state line. The community hosts many parks, recreation, and general shopping, but there are few commercial developments or malls that draw in constant levels of consumer traffic.
The homes tend to be situated within larger lots, and many of the streets are free from heavy traffic. Buyers should be keen on the usual activity level on school streets and Old Tappan Road itself, and its activity level during drop-off and morning/evening traffic.
River Vale
River Vale offers the balance of residential peace while still maintaining easy access to nearby towns in the Pascack Valley. Local recreation, a community center, seasonal programs, and a farmers market provide a sense of community without the need to travel farther for larger stores or malls. The township does not host its own passenger rail system, though it can be found in the neighboring Hillsdale, Westwood, and Park Ridge. This may be a perfect setup for less-intense living situations for those willing to travel to the nearest rail stations or shopping areas.
“Buyers looking for less traffic should focus on the specific street, not just the town. A home tucked inside a residential neighborhood may feel remarkably peaceful, while another property in the same community could sit near a busy school, commuter route, or commercial corridor.”–Michael Akkus, Broker Associate/Team Leader
How Should Buyers Compare Traffic Before Making an Offer?
Online tools can be a good starting point, but maps cannot tell the full story. Try visiting a prospective home at different times of the week: During the morning commute, school drop-off, rush hours in the evenings, and a typical weekend. Are you noticing white noise from vehicles? How many cars tend to drive down a specific street? Is this a potential shortcut used by drivers?
It is also recommended to look at frequent destinations as potential buyers, such as where you might work or your children’s schools. A “quiet” street can lead to a far more frustrating schedule if you must drive through busy intersections to get to each one.
A Quieter Lifestyle in Bergen County
Rockleigh, Harrington Park, Haworth, Old Tappan, and River Vale all offer buyers some potential quieter lifestyles. Each has its balance of residential peace or proximity to services or commuting destinations. Which buyers choose will be determined by their personal preferences and their budget, not just the name of the community. In turn, a knowledgeable real estate agent in Bergen County can help buyers identify properties that offer the best value considering commuting, home value, the local inventory, and the accessibility to the places they tend to frequent. Reach out to the professionals at The Akkus Group if you are interested in relocating to the best Bergen County communities for little to no traffic.
What Do Buyers Ask About Quieter Bergen County Communities?
Q: Which Berkshire County community has the least amount of traffic?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question. Rockleigh has few commercial developments and a very small inventory of residents, but those wishing to do errands or shopping will have to drive elsewhere. Harrington Park, Haworth, Old Tappan, and River Vale can also offer some buyers less traffic. Every street will dictate its level of activity, and buyers should treat each neighborhood individually.
Q: Will living in a less intense town lengthen my commute?
A: It can. Several of the “quieter” communities tend to find themselves distanced from major train stations or highway entrances. In any more isolated setting, a peaceful home may mean a much longer drive to reach major roadways. Test out the full length of your commute on a normal weekday before submitting an offer.
Q: What locations should I be wary of if I want to avoid road noise?
A: Residential streets along county roads, intersections, or schools may struggle with far more noise and traffic than other areas. This can also occur for streets directly next to or within parks or athletic fields, especially if there are events taking place. You should also visit a neighborhood more than once, and outside of an open house, before submitting an offer.
Q: Are homes in less “hustle” areas in Bergen County more expensive?
A: It can depend on the area; certain communities boast large lots or far fewer homes with luxury-level finishes. However, this can vary drastically by location and even by how much acreage or the condition of a specific home. Instead of comparing all “quiet” areas to one another, you may want to review local sales in a particular place and your overall budget for owning and caring for a home.