Rutherford Real Estate

Situated just 8 miles west of Manhattan, it offers a distinct charm that bridges the gap between urban energy and suburban tranquility. Known as the "Borough of Trees," it is a community that values its historic roots while serving as a premier hub for young professionals and families who seek a fast, reliable connection to the city.

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Architectural Styles & Housing Stock

Rutherford’s real estate is characterized by architectural integrity and deep-seated character. Unlike many suburban areas filled with modern "flips," Rutherford’s streets are a gallery of American residential history.

• Victorian & Colonial Revival: Stately homes with wrap-around porches and original woodwork are common near the town center and the "Ridge" section.

• Bungalows & Tudors: Charming, smaller-scale options provide entry points for first-time buyers while maintaining the town’s storybook aesthetic.

• Downtown Living: Following the borough's shift from a "dry" town to a revitalized culinary destination, new luxury apartment complexes and condos have emerged near Park Avenue, catering to those who prefer an urban lifestyle.

• Property Heritage: The town earns its nickname from the massive, century-old oaks and maples that create a lush canopy over nearly every residential street.

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The Schools: High-Performing Excellence

The Rutherford School District is a major draw for families, consistently earning high marks for academic performance and the quality of its teaching staff.

• The District Structure: A high-performing K-12 system with five schools that foster a tight-knit community feel.

• Rutherford High School: Ranked among the top districts in New Jersey for 2026, the high school is noted for its strong Advanced Placement (AP) programs and competitive athletic departments.

• Personalized Learning: With a student-to-teacher ratio of roughly 13:1, the public education system provides a level of personalized attention often associated with private institutions.

• Collegiate Presence: The borough is also home to Felician University, which contributes a quiet collegiate energy to the northern end of town.

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Real Estate Market: Prices for Sale & Rent

Rutherford remains one of the most stable and high-demand markets in Bergen County due to its proximity to NYC and its high quality of life.

The median home price in Rutherford currently stands at approximately 799,000 dollars. For those entering the rental market, the median rent is approximately 2,900 dollars per month, reflecting the high demand from Manhattan-based commuters. Homeowners should anticipate property taxes ranging between 12,000 and 16,000 dollars. While these figures represent a "Bergen County premium," they fund a highly efficient municipal system and localized services that residents consider a worthwhile investment in their quality of life.

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The Commute: The Transit Gold Standard

Rutherford is arguably the best-connected town in Bergen County for professionals working in Manhattan, offering multiple reliable routes into the city.

• The Train: The Rutherford Station (Main/Bergen County Line) is located in the heart of town. Commuters can reach Hoboken in 22 minutes (for a PATH transfer) or New York Penn Station in 30–40 minutes via a transfer at Secaucus Junction.

• The Bus: NJ Transit’s 190 bus runs along Orient Way directly to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown. Trip time is typically 30–35 minutes, with buses running every 15 minutes during peak hours.

• Driving: Strategically located at the intersection of Route 3, Route 17, and the NJ Turnpike, drivers can reach the Lincoln Tunnel in as little as 15 minutes under optimal conditions.

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Safety, Recreation & Community

Rutherford feels like a classic American town with a modern pulse, where civic involvement and safety are top priorities.

• Park Avenue: The walkable downtown is the borough’s social anchor, featuring boutique shops, cafes, and a recently revitalized dining scene.

• Memorial Park: A massive green space featuring baseball fields, tennis courts, and a community pool that serves as the town’s primary recreational hub.

• Cultural Landmarks: The Williams Center is a historic theater and cinema that hosts live performances and independent films, serving as the borough's cultural heart.

• Safety: Crime rates in Rutherford are significantly lower than state and national averages, allowing for a relaxed, "front porch" culture where neighbors know each other by name.

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Rutherford Property Value Appreciation Chart (2015-2025)