$570,606Average Value$409Average Price per Sq Ft82Homes For Sale
Riverside suburban city with a Main Street legacy, looking to bounce back
Hackensack, loosely translated from a Native American phrase meaning “mouth of a river,” isn’t lacking when it comes to unique features. The city’s population of 46,000 is a mere 15 miles north of Hoboken, which contains 57,000 people. While densely packed Hoboken is known for million-dollar condos, Hackensack is more of a sprawling riverside city. It features everything from Revolutionary War history to modernist architecture like the towering Art Deco-style Sears building. Words like cozy and charming tend to be used by locals, and some even call it an ideal place for first-time homebuyers. “Housing varies quite a bit in Hackensack,” says Jennifer Romero, broker/owner with RE/MAX Lifestyles and longtime resident of the area. “On one end of town, you may find a lot of cute single-family homes, while areas like Summit Avenue feature much larger houses.”
Many other Realtors describe it as a place trying to bounce back – and doing a good job at it. After all, the Main Street model was challenged by New Jersey’s penchant for shopping malls and then by mass adoption of online shopping. But localism is sweeping back as a trend, prompting new housing and development efforts that could bring more than 6,000 people back downtown. The monumental Bergen County Court House and Hackensack University Medical Center are major employers. Fairleigh Dickinson University participates in many downtown events. “It’s clearly gentrifying,” says Gena Miller, a Realtor with Weichert Realtors and longtime resident. “But it still has that really warm, welcoming atmosphere and so any small business can find a way to be successful here.”
City officials are making efforts to build on Hackensack’s legacy. “Among many other projects, we’re aiming to adaptively reuse the Sears building,” says Albert Dib, director of redevelopment for the city. “These projects are hard but they’re worth it. We’ve applied for a $500,000 grant to do artistic programming that would be very impactful, like light projections onto the county courthouse. Young people want experiences, and we’re competing with places like Teaneck and Hoboken. I think we’ve really turned a corner, with a lot of the initiatives hopefully coming to fruition soon.”
The vibrant Main Street in Hackensack, NJ.
Bergen County courts are located in Downtown Hackensack, NJ.
Hackensack University Medical Center, a 950-bed facility, excels in research and healthcare.
The Shops at Riverside offers everything from food to Bloomingdales in Hackensack, NJ.
1/4
Midrise condos and colonial-inspired homes throughout Hackensack
Homebuyers can start their hunt by exploring the co-ops and condos that Hackensack has to offer. These midrise buildings price units between $200,000 and $465,000. “You have a doorman at some of these buildings, a pool, various amenities,” says Jason Pierce, Realtor with Prominent Properties. But there’s a strong suburban element to Hackensack’s residential scene, too. Yards are common here, and while not every property has a driveway and garage, that doesn’t seem to be an issue for homebuyers coming in from dense urban areas like New York City. “I recently sold to a New Yorker who was happy with street parking, which is much less of a headache to find than in Manhattan, plus she can walk to a bus stop,” says Miller.
Updated colonial-inspired homes are popular in the $500,000 to $725,000 range. “Hackensack is a town with older historic homes that have been renovated,” says Pierce. “You’ll see some of them having high ceilings on the first floor. You also get more bang for your buck with these types of properties, compared to nearby places.” Closer to $800,000, buyers can find larger six-bedroom Victorians and multi-family homes.
A sturdy, old craftman style home in Hackensack, NJ.
Along with houses, older condos are an affordable way to live in Hackensack, NJ.
A Spanish mission style house is among the diverse styles found in Hackensack, NJ.
The are plenty of older colonials to choose from in Hackensack, NJ.
1/4
Fairleigh Dickinson University is a supportive presence in the community
Students can start at Nellie Parker School, which earns a B-minus from Niche. The school covers pre-kindergarten to fourth grade and has a 12-to-1 student-teacher ratio. Hackensack Middle receives a C and Hackensack High earns a B. Miller attended both and says the ESL program at the high school is well regarded. Paramus Catholic High is a popular private school option in the area. The private Fairleigh Dickinson University has a strong presence in the community. There are undergraduate and graduate programs, with business being a particular specialty of the school.
Hackensack’s Fairleigh Dickinson University offers over 100 impressive degree programs.
Paramus Catholic High School provides students with faith based college-prep education.
Hackensack High School in Hackensack, NJ.
Hackensack Middle School
1/4
Johnson Park and Foschini Park are top destinations
“We have a lot of open space in Hackensack, and we’re really big on supporting recreational sports programs. We just finished the M&M Rec Center,” says Dib, referring to a facility that has a 400-seat basketball arena. “We’re about to build an indoor sports complex at Johnson Park.” Famous among bikers and joggers for its Hackensack River pathway but also appealing to children with its playground, Johnson Park is one of the city’s top-listed green spaces. Foschini Park is another popular riverside destination, especially during the annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration. “Johnson Park hosts a thriving soccer program. For baseball, it’s Foschini Park with 10 fields. Substantial upgrades are on the horizon,” says Dib.
The courthouse green is also open to the public. “That’s where we have summer concerts on Tuesday nights, from June to August,” says Dib. Other places for activity include the Ice House, an indoor skating rink where Olympians are known to train. Bowler City can host large groups, thanks to 50 bowling lanes. Dib mentions that indoor tennis courts are coming to the city soon on River Street.
Spend a few hours to explore the riverside Foschini Park, located in Downtown Hackensack.
Hackensack residents love the diverse outdoor spaces offered at Johnson Park.
Take a slower paced activity at Bowler City in Hackensack, NJ.
The Green, in Hackensack, NJ, home of Summer Concerts and other activities
1/4
Enduring restaurants on Main Street
Dib describes postcards from the time when Hackensack was a bustling city of just 30,000 people. “It was department store mecca,” he says. But even though Sears and Woolworth’s have moved on, some standbys from the glory days remain to inspire newcomers. White Manna is a tiny burger joint serving sliders on potato rolls, open since 1946. Then it’s all about crumb cakes and a cash-only policy at B&W Bakery, open since 1948. But it’s not just takeout or comfort food, according to local Realtors. “Hackensack has a lot of really good cafes. You can go and sit there for an entire day,” says Miller. “Main Street has diverse restaurants. Noches de Colombian is a great South American restaurant, there’s Dominican, Jamaican, Caribbean food.” It’s often noted as well that Hackensack is close to desirable county amenities. “You’re 2 miles from the Whole Foods, Target and Shop Rite at Bergen Town Center,” says Miller.
At close to discount prices, B&W Bakery is a well loved bakery in Hackensack, NJ.
Ramen Azuma is a high-end ramen noodle restaurant that has drawn customers from all over NJ.
On a breezy winter day, it's the perfect excuse to spend the workday at a local cafe.
Inside the ever popular White Manna burger restaurant in Hackensack, NJ.
1/4
The Hackensack Performing Arts Center occupies a former church
Arts and culture are making a big comeback with the Hackensack Performing Arts Center. The 1840s redbrick building is clearly a former church with tapered Gothic windows. “The city saw an opportunity to bring people in. It has three spaces: an auditorium, an art gallery and a parking lot turned into an open-air venue for concerts, movies and Hackensacktoberfest, which brought out 4,000 people in six hours,” says Dib. The city’s downtown is a Special Improvement District which plans a calendar of events including games, busking, food trucks and the popular annual tree lighting ceremony. Other arts projects completed by the city include murals, painted utility boxes and the display of bronze sculptures on loan from the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton.
Take in a show a Hackensack Performing Arts Center.
Experience the excitement and joy that the HACKENSACKtoberfest offers to the town residents.
Art on Union Street Park in Hackensack, NJ.
Discover the taste of empanadas made with locally grown goods at HACKENSACKtoberfest.
1/4
Buses at Hackensack Transit Village
“Ease of getting around is the top amenity incentivizing people to buy homes in Hackensack, in my experience,” says Pierce. “Many commuters will drive to New York City, but there are lots of public transportation options.” Although some modes may be more preferred than others. “Buses can get you in and out of the city faster because they run more frequently than the trains,” says Dib. “The Hackensack Transit Village helps.” There’s always the option to go on foot, too. “A good part of Hackensack is walkable. Main Street runs north-south for about 2 miles from the north end at Route 4 until you get to the courthouse on the south end,” says Dib. “So you have a business district stretching along that corridor.”
Green intiatives and crime trends
“Our Green Team just got a bronze certification in September 2024 through the state office for sustainability,” says Dib. He also mentions a rain garden being installed at Hackensack High through the Green Team and Hackensack’s arts organization.
According to data reported to the FBI, violent crime increased about 35% and property crime decreased about 1% from 2022 to 2023.
Written By
Paul Spencer
Photography Contributed By
Elma Kukaj
Video By
Luke Mancari
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Anita Vogel,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Hackensack, NJ sell after 46 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Hackensack, NJ over the last 12 months is $359,500, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 42 Spring Valley Ave in Hackensack's sought-after Fairmount section; a classic colonial with modern updates and an unbeatable location. A relaxing front porch leads you inside to wood floors high ceilings & a flowing layout. The updated kitchen w/ SS appliances & quartz counters opens to a 1/2 bath and spacious living room. A formal dining room seats a crowd with ease. Upstairs: 4
Amazing opportunity to own this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath Split-Level in Hackensack! Featuring an inviting living room with hardwood floors, a recently updated kitchen with granite countertops, with stainless steel appliances, and a dining room that's ideal for entertaining. Upstairs, you'll find three spacious bedrooms a recently renovated full bath and a walkup attic. The
Gerald Denicola, IIBerkshire Hathaway Home Services Fox & Roach Realtors - Montclair
Enjoy the ease and convenience of first-floor living in this bright and well-designed studio apartment. Featuring a smart, functional layout and an inviting living space, this home offers both comfort and practicality. Brand-new appliances add a fresh, modern touch, making it truly move-in ready. This pet-friendly building offers added appeal, while the monthly maintenance fee covers heat, hot
Mary Ellen O'ConnellTerrie O'Connor Realtors-Wyckoff
Welcome to The Sherbrooke, a highly regarded full-service co-op located on prestigious Prospect Avenue in Hackensack. This bright corner 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence on the 10th floor offers stunning dual exposures with sweeping NYC skyline views and beautiful sunset vistas. Enjoy indoor-outdoor living with your own private terrace, perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation above the
Builderâ€TMs Special – Full Gut Rehab! Attention builders and investors! This single-family builderâ€TMs special is in shell condition and requires a full gut rehab. Ideal for renovation, expansion, or teardown/rebuild. Only a 3-minute walk to Hackensack Ave, placing shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences right at your doorstep. This property offers strong potential for rental income or
Step into this well-maintained studio condo located in Hackensack. This condo features an entry hall, eat-in-kitchen w/ dishwasher, large living room/bedroom combo and an full bathroom. Residents enjoy access to a common area and on-site laundry facilities located in the basement. Ideally situated near NYC train and bus lines, Hackensack Hospital, and major highways, this location makes commuting
This large, spacious (over 1000 sq. ft) light and bright corner unit in Blair House is the perfect combination of size, location and convenience! Building offers 24 hour concierge / doorman, pool, sauna, laundry on floor and unit comes with one deeded parking space. Featuring tons of closet space for storage, newly installed LVP floors, and freshly painted walls, you can move right in! Nearby
Welcome to this beautifully maintained single-family home located on a quiet residential street in the desirable Fairmount section of Hackensack. This charming home offers 4 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms with comfortable living space throughout. Inside, you'll find a spacious living room filled with natural light and an inviting eat-in kitchen with dining area, perfect for everyday living and
Prime location directly across from Hackensack Medical Center! This spacious 2-family home is much larger than it appears and offers excellent convenience near transportation, highways, and shopping. The first-floor unit features 2 bedrooms, including a generous primary bedroom, a living room, dining area, eat-in kitchen, and in-unit laundry. The second-floor unit offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full
Beautiful open concept apartment located in one of the nicest areas of town. Hardwood floors, stainless appliances, balcony fireplace and laundry in unit. Two covered parking spaces are deeded to the apartment. Ny transportation a walk away, close to restaurant and shopping. Small pets allowed
Maria BellaviaChristie's International Real Estate Group-Paramus
Beautiful new colonial home in the heart of Hackensack! Conveniently located near two NJ Transit train stations, the downtown bus transfer station, and Hackensack University Medical Center, offering easy access to NYC and surrounding areas. The first floor features a bright living room, eat-in kitchen with coffee bar, dining area, bedroom, and full bath. Upstairs includes a spacious primary suite
Katarzyna JackowskaRE/MAX Trading Places LLC - Hasbrouck Heights
Luxurious, convenient, and modern living in this beautiful building in fairmount section of Hackensack! Secure entry into the building, walk-through the luxurious lobby to the elevator, right up to your unit on the 3rd floor. Unit features 1 HUGE bedroom, spacious living/dining area, huge windows throughout this bright and well-lit apartment, galley kitchen w white cabinets. Unit includes parking
Welcome to this spacious and well-maintained residence offering over 1,200 sq ft of comfortable living space, one of the larger layouts available in the community. This home features an oversized living room ideal for entertaining, relaxing, or creating a dedicated work-from-home area, along with two generously sized bedrooms including a large primary suite.The kitchen is thoughtfully designed
Welcome to this charming Center Hall Colonial located in the highly sought-after Fairmount section of Hackensack. Situated on a corner lot with ample off-street parking, this 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers a classic layout with timeless appeal and modern updates. Hardwood flooring throughout complements its traditional design and inviting atmosphere. The main level features a spacious living
Christine GubbKeller Williams Village Square Realty
This 2-family offers approximately 1,767 sq ft of living space, ideal for both owner-occupants and investors seeking strong rental potential. 1st Floor consists of LR, BR, EIK, and BTH with access to the unfinished basement. 2nd Fl has renovated LR, BR, BR, MEIK, recessed lights BTH, Hardwood Floors, 3rd Fl Walk-up attic with 2 unfinished bonus rooms. Separate Gas Utilities, Young Roof. Sold
New Construction! The Jefferson, a new community comprised of stunning one and two-bedroom rental residences, is the cornerstone of Hackensack’s remarkable renewal. Located just steps from the New Bridge Landing-River Edge Train Station, The Jefferson is a commuter’s dream. In minutes you can be on your way to Secaucus Junction or Hoboken — or hop on Route 4 and zip into Manhattan! But
Beautifully maintained and freshly painted one-bedroom apartment located on the second floor in a highly desirable Hackensack neighborhood. This bright and spacious unit offers comfortable living with an abundance of natural light and a welcoming atmosphere throughout. Conveniently situated near public transportation, shopping, dining, and major highways, it provides easy access to everything the
A new record in Hackensack living. For decades, fresh ink stamped historic moments into our daily history at 160 River Street, the former home of the Bergen Record newspaper. Today, the location once again unites a community, connecting a reimagined downtown Hackensack with waterfront living. Print House proudly sits as the area's new pinnacle of luxury, merging a vibrant, yet timeless design
Furnished or unfurnished updated apartment with newer kitchen cabinets, stainless steel appliances, smart washer and dryer, and updated bathroom. Features 3 bedrooms and 1 full bath. Baseboard heat and window ACs. Includes 2 parking spaces. Tenant responsible for snow removal. Conveniently located near major highways, hospitals, and shopping.
Welcome home to The Parkview @ Polifly. This beautiful mid-rise apartment community is located in the heart of Hackensack, New Jersey and within walking distance to the prestigious Hackensack University Medical Center and Essex Street Train Station. The three-story elevator building offers studio, one- and two-bedroom apartment homes with a variety of modern amenities including newly
Furnished or unfurnished updated apartment with newer bathroom and kitchen cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and smart washer and dryer. Located close to major highways, hospitals, and shopping. Features 3 bedrooms, a bonus room, and 2 full baths. Baseboard heating and window ACs. Includes 2 parking spots. Tenant responsible for snow removal and landscaping. Use of yard. Must see.
Welcome to 154 Ames St, Unit 2 in Hackensack, NJ a rental designed for ease and accessibility. All major utilities are included electric, gas, water, trash, and landscaping allowing for a streamlined living experience. The main level features a well-appointed kitchen with efficient flow, while the upper level offers two bedrooms, a full bath, and a living room space that works for everyday
Discover a place where convenience, comfort, and style come together at The Forte, a modern residential community in the heart of Hackensack. Perfectly located near shops, grocery stores, restaurants, and entertainment, The Forte places everything you need just moments from your door. Commuters will especially appreciate being right next to Anderson Street Station, offering quick and easy access
Welcome to your new home in Hackensack, NJ! This charming property is perfectly located near essential amenities, making it a convenient choice for anyone looking to enjoy city living with easy access to nearby parks, such as Johnson Park and Carver Park. You'll also find a department store just a short drive away, ensuring that your shopping needs are met with ease. This inviting residence
WELCOME HOME: INTRODUCING THE BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED CADILLAC MANOR - Cadillac Manor is a newly-renovated and updated mid-rise walk-up residence conveniently located in Hackensack, New Jersey. With the most pristine landscaped property as the backdrop to the exterior, Cadillac Manor offers studio and one-bedroom apartments, open floor plan living, with flexibility in furniture
Welcome to Executive House in Hackensack, a luxury building ideally set on Beech Street, just one block off Prospect Avenue—offering a quieter, more peaceful residential setting while remaining close to everything. This beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment was completely updated just three years ago and showcases a spectacular gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances, sleek
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
