Washington Township
Quiet country living in northwest Bergen County
By Scott Selleck \u2014 Licensed NJ/FL Real Estate Agent | 33+ Years in Bergen & Hudson Counties | The Selleck Group / KW City Views Realty
Last updated: August 8, 2026
What Is It Like to Live in Washington Township, NJ?
Washington Township is a quiet, affluent borough of approximately 9,300 residents in northwestern Bergen County, known for its rural character, large lots, excellent schools, and proximity to the Ramapo Mountains. With median home values between $664K and $788K, it is one of Bergen County's more desirable communities for residents seeking space and top-rated education.
Officially the Township of Washington, this community occupies the northwestern corner of Bergen County, bordering Mahwah and the Pascack Valley. Unlike many denser Bergen County towns, Washington Township offers a distinctly rural/suburban feel with spacious properties, wooded lots, and a low population density that gives residents privacy and room to breathe.
The township is served by the Washington Township Public Schools, rated A on Niche and considered one of the stronger districts in Bergen County. The K\u201312 system is a major draw for residents who prioritize education. The township is also home to Immaculate Heart Academy, a prestigious private Catholic high school for young women that draws students from across the region.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Ramapo Mountains provide hiking, mountain biking, and year-round recreation. Pascack Brook County Park and the Ramapo Valley County Reservation offer trails, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Despite its peaceful, rural character, Washington Township is within easy reach of Mahwah's shopping centers and Route 17's retail corridor. The commute to Manhattan takes 45\u201365 minutes depending on traffic and route.
Schools Serving Washington Township, NJ?
Rated A (Niche). Washington Township Public Schools K\u201312 plus Immaculate Heart Academy. One of Bergen County's strongest districts.
What Do Homes Cost in Washington Township in 2026?
Median $664K\u2013$788K. Single-family homes on large lots. Rural character with lower density.
How Long Is the Commute from Washington Township to NYC?
45\u201365 min via Route 17 to GW Bridge. NJ Transit bus options available. Near NY state line.
Where Are the Best Restaurants Near Washington Township, NJ?
Washington Township's dining scene draws from nearby Hillsdale and Westwood, with Bacari Grill being a local standout for Italian cuisine right in the township.
Bacari Grill
A popular Italian restaurant on Ridgewood Road serving handmade pasta, seasonal seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and an extensive wine list. A Washington Township favorite for special occasions and date nights.
The Cornerstone Restaurant & Bar
A neighborhood gastropub on Broadway in nearby Hillsdale with craft cocktails, elevated American fare, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Fig & Tomato Italian European Eatery
An Italian-European restaurant on Park Avenue in Hillsdale known for its creative seasonal menu, housemade pastas, and rustic yet refined ambiance.
Mezza Mediterranean
A Jefferson Avenue restaurant in Westwood serving fresh Mediterranean cuisine with flavorful grilled meats, hummus, and falafel.
The Pascack Valley towns of Hillsdale, Westwood, and Park Ridge offer additional dining options from casual cafes to fine dining.
What Parks and Recreation Does Washington Township Offer?
Washington Township is a gateway to some of the best outdoor recreation in Bergen County, from the Pascack Brook to the Ramapo Mountains.
Pascack Brook County Park
A scenic county park with walking trails, sports fields, and natural green space along the Pascack Brook. A favorite for hiking and wildlife viewing in all seasons.
Borough Parks & Playgrounds
Washington Township maintains several neighborhood parks with playgrounds, athletic fields, and open space for community recreation.
Ramapo Valley County Reservation (nearby)
A sprawling 4,000-acre county park in Mahwah with hiking trails, fishing, kayaking, and stunning views of the Ramapo Mountains.
Campgaw Mountain Reservation (nearby)
A Bergen County park with hiking, mountain biking, and winter skiing. Offers panoramic views of the region from the mountain summit.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in Washington Township, NJ?
Washington Township hosts a friendly calendar of community events centered around its parks and recreation programs.
Washington Township Day
An annual community celebration with food trucks, live music, inflatables, and community activities that brings the township together.
Summer Concert Series
Free outdoor concerts at the municipal parks during summer months, featuring local bands and live entertainment for all ages.
Holiday Tree Lighting & Parade
A festive annual celebration with caroling, hot cocoa, Santa visits, and the lighting of the township holiday tree.
Farmers Market Season
Seasonal farmers markets in neighboring Westwood and Hillsdale bring fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
How Do You Get to Manhattan from Washington Township, NJ?
Washington Township's location in northwestern Bergen County near the New York state line provides flexible commuting options via car and bus.
By car, Washington Township is about 25 miles from Midtown Manhattan. The drive takes 45\u201365 minutes depending on traffic via Route 17 south to the George Washington Bridge. Route 17 provides a direct corridor through Bergen County, though rush hour congestion is common. The GW Bridge toll is $14.79 off-peak and $16.79 during peak hours (E-ZPass).
NJ Transit and Rockland Coaches provide bus service from Washington Township and nearby communities to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. The trip typically takes 50\u201370 minutes depending on the route and time of day.
Nearby train stations in Hillsdale, Westwood, and Park Ridge offer NJ Transit Pascack Valley Line service to Secaucus Junction and Hoboken, with connections to Penn Station in Manhattan. The train is a popular option for commuters willing to drive a few minutes to the station.
Pros and Cons of Living in Washington Township
Pros
- Top-rated A-rated public schools (K\u201312)
- Large lots with rural character and privacy
- Proximity to Ramapo Mountains and outdoor recreation
- Safe, well-maintained community with low crime
- Home to Immaculate Heart Academy
- Easy access to Route 17 and NY border
Cons
- Higher home prices than Bergen County average
- Longer commute to NYC than closer-in towns
- Limited downtown and commercial areas within walking distance
- Limited public transit options compared to central Bergen towns
- No NJ Transit train station in the township itself
Who Is Washington Township Best For?
Homebuyers Seeking Top Schools
The A-rated Washington Township Public Schools K\u201312 system is the township's biggest draw for residents who prioritize education and a safe, spacious environment.
Nature Lovers
With Pascack Brook County Park, Ramapo Valley County Reservation, and Campgaw Mountain nearby, outdoor enthusiasts have outstanding recreational options at their doorstep.
Space Seekers
If you want acreage, privacy, and a rural feel without leaving Bergen County, Washington Township offers the most space per dollar among the county's affluent communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Washington Township, NJ
Is Washington Township a good place to live?
How far is Washington Township from NYC?
What is the average home price in Washington Township?
Are the schools in Washington Township good?
What is the character of Washington Township?
Washington Township — Schools & Education
Schools serving the Washington Township area span public, private, parochial, and early childhood options across multiple grade levels.
Public Schools
The Washington Township Public Schools serves this community. Schools in the district include:
Elementary Schools
- Washington Elementary School — K–5 | Rating: A/10 (GreatSchools.org, 2026)
Middle Schools
- Washington Township Middle School — 6–8 | Rating: A/10 (GreatSchools.org, 2026)
High Schools
- Washington Township High School — 9–12 | Rating: A/10 (GreatSchools.org, 2026)
For enrollment information and district details, visit Washington Township Public Schools.
Private Schools
- Immaculate Heart Academy — 9–12 |
Parochial / Religious Schools
- St. Andrew's Catholic Church — | Religious education programs
School ratings are sourced from GreatSchools.org as of 2026 and may change. Verify current data directly with the school district or GreatSchools.org.
Nearby Towns
Mahwah
Outdoor recreation and top schools at the county's northern edge.
Hillsdale
Walkable downtown with NJ Transit train access.
Westwood
Active Broadway downtown with train service.
Park Ridge
Walkable Park Avenue downtown and train access.
Considering a move to Florida? Read our NJ to Florida Moving Guide for cost comparisons, moving process, and school districts.
How Do You Get to NYC from Washington Township?
Washington Township is accessible via Route 17 and Rockland Coaches/NJ Transit bus service. Nearest train stations are in Westwood and Hillsdale on the Pascack Valley Line.
Driving via Route 17
Route 17 provides a direct corridor south to the George Washington Bridge. 45–65 minutes to Midtown depending on traffic.
NJ Transit & Rockland Coaches Bus
Bus service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal is available from Washington Township and nearby Park Ridge and Westwood.
Pascack Valley Line Train (nearby)
NJ Transit train stations in Hillsdale, Westwood, and Park Ridge provide service to Secaucus Junction and Hoboken, with connections to Penn Station.
Average Commute
Washington Township residents average approximately 50–70 minutes door-to-door to Midtown Manhattan, with car commuters often achieving faster times.
What Are the Schools Like in Washington Township?
Washington Township Public Schools are rated A on Niche, one of Bergen County's strongest K–12 districts. Immaculate Heart Academy is also located in town.
Washington Township Public Schools
A-rated K–12 district known for strong academic programs, high college acceptance rates, and dedicated faculty.
Washington Township High School
A-rated high school offering comprehensive academic programs, athletics, and extracurricular activities.
Immaculate Heart Academy
A prestigious private Catholic high school for young women, located in Washington Township and drawing students from across the region.
Nearby Private Schools
St. Joseph Regional High School in Montvale and other private options are accessible.
Bergen County Academies
The nationally ranked magnet school in Hackensack is accessible to Washington Township students via countywide application.
School ratings, when cited, are sourced from GreatSchools.org or Niche.com and are provided for informational purposes only. Verify current ratings directly with the relevant school district or rating source.
Where Are the Best Coffee Shops in Washington Township?
Washington Township's cafe scene centers on nearby Hillsdale and Westwood, which offer walkable downtowns with coffee shops and bakeries.
Bacari Grill
A Washington Township favorite for Italian cuisine, also serving coffee and cocktails in a refined setting.
Westwood Coffee Shops
Nearby Westwood offers several coffee shops and cafes along Broadway and Center Avenue.
Hillsdale Cafes
Downtown Hillsdale features casual cafes and bakeries along Broadway.
Is Washington Township Good for Pet Owners?
Washington Township offers access to Pascack Brook County Park and nearby Ramapo trails for dog walking, plus veterinary services.
Pascack Brook County Park
A scenic county park with walking trails along the Pascack Brook, ideal for leashed dog walks.
Ramapo Valley County Reservation (nearby)
Sprawling parkland in Mahwah with extensive trails for dog walking in a natural setting.
Veterinary Services
Veterinary clinics in nearby Westwood, Hillsdale, and Mahwah provide comprehensive pet care.
What Hospitals and Medical Services Are Near Washington Township?
The Valley Hospital in Ridgewood and Hackensack University Medical Center are both accessible from Washington Township.
The Valley Hospital (Ridgewood)
A 450-bed hospital providing comprehensive emergency, surgical, and specialty care.
Hackensack University Medical Center
One of New Jersey's largest hospitals with a Level I Trauma Center.
Primary Care & Urgent Care
Medical offices and urgent care centers are available in Westwood, Hillsdale, and Mahwah.
Pharmacies
CVS and Walgreens locations in neighboring communities provide convenient prescription access.
Where Do Residents Shop for Groceries in Washington Township?
Grocery shopping near Washington Township is available in Westwood, Hillsdale, and Mahwah with major chains and specialty markets.
Westwood & Hillsdale Markets
ShopRite, ACME, and Stop & Shop are available in nearby communities.
Mahwah Shopping
Mahwah offers additional grocery options including Whole Foods and Trader Joe's.
Farmers Markets
Seasonal farmers markets in Westwood and Hillsdale bring fresh local produce during warmer months.
Everyday Errands
Westwood and Hillsdale provide banks, dry cleaners, pharmacies, and daily services within a short drive.
What Parks and Outdoor Spaces Does Washington Township Offer?
Washington Township is a gateway to the Ramapo Mountains and offers access to Pascack Brook County Park, Ramapo Valley County Reservation, and Campgaw Mountain.
Pascack Brook County Park
A scenic county park with walking trails and natural green space within the township.
Ramapo Valley County Reservation (nearby)
A 4,000-acre county park with hiking, fishing, kayaking, and mountain views.
Campgaw Mountain Reservation (nearby)
A Bergen County park with hiking, mountain biking, and winter skiing.
Borough Parks
Neighborhood parks with playgrounds and athletic fields for daily recreation.
Walking & Hiking
Washington Township's rural character offers quiet roads and trails for walking, jogging, and hiking.
Interested in Washington Township?
I know Bergen County's communities inside and out. Let's talk about whether Washington Township is right for you.
All the best,
Scott Selleck
Broker / Sales Associate
The Selleck Group | KW City Views Realty
SRES, e-PRO | AI-Enabled Listing and NJ to FL Transition Specialist
Licensed since 1993 | Over 500 transactions closed
2200 Fletcher Avenue, Suite 502, Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Cell: (201) 970-3960 | Office: (201) 592-8900
scott@sellecksellsnj.com | SelleckSellsNJ.com
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NJ Real Estate Broker / Sales Associate License #9236275
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Sources & Learn More — Washington Township
- Township of Washington — Official Website
- Washington Township Public Schools
- NJ Transit Bus & Rail Schedules
- Bergen County Parks & Recreation
- Ramapo Valley County Reservation
- The Valley Hospital — Official Website
- NJ Association of Realtors — Market Data
- GreatSchools.org — School Ratings & Reviews
- Niche.com — Washington Township Schools