A commuter city with an evolving waterfront and enduring retail scene
West New York is a commuter’s wish come true thanks to Manhattan’s proximity, but the city has a way of encouraging people to put down roots. It started out as a textile hub in the early 20th century, eventually becoming a haven for immigrants. In recent years, the waterfront has been the site of development, including high rises that shine on the Hudson River. “It’s very densely populated, and has lots of great restaurants and shops,” says Sonia DaSilva, a Realtor with Sotheby’s International Realty. According to U.S. Census data, West New York is in the top three most densely populated cities in America. Over 50,000 people live here, and the median age is 37. The retail and service sectors are major engines of the local economy, especially with the “Miracle Mile” containing 300 businesses along Bergenline Avenue – the longest commercial street in New Jersey.
A buzz is being created around West New York, as both homebuyers and developers realize they can avoid the higher prices of trendy places nearby like Hoboken, yet still have an easy commute. “Everything is changing so quickly,” says Brian Kim, a Realtor with Proper Estates. “Prices have gone up because people have caught on to the transportation advantages here.” Still, people come back to the fact that West New York can offer a cozy, tight-knit feel in conjunction with the faster, denser urban pace. "West New York is the best of what I call an urban-suburban lifestyle," says Rosita Wheeler, a Realtor with Christie's International who’s lived in the neighborhood for over 20 years. "Urban, because of its walkability to many great neighborhood restaurants and shops and ease of public transportation. Suburban because of the waterfront green spaces, dog parks and walking trails."
West New York is a commuter's dream with its close proximity to Manhattan.
The waterfront in West New York has seen a surge in development due to it's proximity to NYC.
Bergenline Avenue in West New York is known as the "Miracle Mile" with it's variety of shops.
The Berganline Ave Jitney in Union City runs every 1 to 2 minutes, so there is never a wait.
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Townhouses, high rise condos and brick single-owner homes
Housing in West New York can seem eclectic, but there is consistency to it when understanding the lay of the land. The city is sloped, dipping down toward the waterfront. As a result, many of the homes perched along Bergenline Avenue face the Manhattan skyline, basking in the views. “Those are larger homes, often in a charming Old World style like Victorian, that command a higher price point for the historic aspect and the views,” says DaSilva. Size can often be a consideration for homebuyers, others explain. "The square footage of properties tends to be larger in West New York than its neighboring cities like New York City or even Hoboken," Wheeler says.
The landscape is a bit different for multi-family properties. “Then you have low-rise townhouses and, by the waterfront, high-rise condos,” says DaSilva. “Those are newer, within the past 20 years. I remember seeing them blast the area for development. There wasn’t anything down on the waterfront.” Locals frequently refer to this as the Jacob’s Ferry neighborhood. “That small sliver down near the Hudson, it feels like its own market, even though it’s part of West New York,” says Kim. DaSilva points out the price differences based on location, even within the same genre of housing: “You can get a cute condo on top of the hill for $200,000 to $500,000 but the waterfront takes you to $800,000 to $900,000. Overall, West New York is a healthy mix of single-owner and multi-family properties or condos.” The median price for a home is $524,000 while the national median is $416,700. Realtors say that single-owner homes can sell from $800,000 to $1.3 million.
Housing in West New York can seem eclectic, but there is consistency to it.
West New York is sloped down toward the water where high-end homes are found.
Charming single-family houses in West New York can be found surrounding Washington Park.
West New York includes a sliver of land between the hill and the water of the Hudson River.
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Public and private school options, plus a community college
The public school system in West New York earns a C from Niche but receives a B-minus in the teachers and college prep categories. Roughly 8,000 students are in attendance across nine schools. There are options for private religious institutions, like Academy of St. Joseph of the Palisades, which is a Catholic school covering pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Those interested in pursuing a career in medicine can go to the American Training School for Medical Professionals, founded in 1998 as a bilingual institution.
On the city's far west end is the North Hudson Campus of Hudson County Community College. Opened in 2011, the seven-story building stands out not only for its modern chrome façade, but also because it sits next to the Bergenline Avenue light rail station.
West New York School #1 is a community of learners, building a brighter future together.
West New York Middle School provides support for students with diverse needs.
Academy of St. Joseph of the Palisades provides Catholic education for life-long learning.
In 2008, Hudson County Community College expanded to Union City with a 7 story building.
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Travel by light rail, tunnel or ferry
There are several ways to reach Manhattan, but one of them is the most popular. “The bus is probably the best way into city, because of how close you are to the Lincoln Tunnel,” says DaSilva. Alternative transportation is also in vogue around the city. “You’ll see a lot of people walking and biking up on the cliff,” says Mark Foisey, a Realtor with The Chen Agency, referring to the north side. “It’s an urban environment, so that’s encouraged. You’ll see more people driving down near the waterfront.”
However, the presence of light rail can’t be underestimated. “The Port Imperial light rail station is one of the most important transportation amenities here,” says DaSilva. “It connects with the PATH train system to take you to New York.” Other commuters choose to take ferry service.
Waterfront strolls and urban parks
“There’s a community aspect to the parks, people use them to chat with neighbors, play sports, bring their kids out,” says Foisey. “I would compare West New York to a neighborhood in Brooklyn or Queens. It’s a very urban lifestyle.” Spots like Miller Park exude local spirit – it’s bordered on all sides by homes, decked out with a splash pad, ballfield and community garden. Donnelly Memorial Park is a somewhat similar arrangement, except it offers an additional reason to gather: a weekly farmers market during June to October. The town’s swimming facility is the West New York Swim Club, open seven days a week. But when it comes to a simple stroll, people go toward the Hudson. “There’s a pedestrian walkway along the waterfront with a beautiful view of the city,” says DaSilva.
Miller Park in West New York features soccer, basketball and a full baseball stadium.
Savor seasonal flavors at the West New York Farmers’ Market in Donnelly Park.
The Waterfront Walkway in West New York is known for the incredible views of Manhattan.
Parks along the hilltop in West New York have spectacular views of the New York City.
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Miracle Mile is a key part of the city's identity
The waterfront is good for more than just a pleasant walk – it’s a convenient retail hub for many. “There’s a shopping center with an Acme grocery store, a yoga studio, a wine shop, a Paris Baguette café,” says DaSilva. “Other large chain stores, too, like Ben and Jerry’s.” The dining scene isn’t just chains, though. There’s local flavor to explore, especially Caribbean and South American cuisines. Son Cubano is a waterfront Cuban restaurant with a popular bar and salsa dancing on Friday nights. Fairview BBQ brings a Brazilian twist, while Social 59 offers empanadas in a lounge atmosphere. Dulce de Leche, an Argentinian bakery, has been open since 2007.
No shopping trip in West New York would be complete without a pass through the Miracle Mile, as locals call it. “All along Bergenline Avenue are numerous restaurants, cafes, shops, offices,” says DaSilva. “Palisade Avenue and Hudson Avenue are also commercial corridors. West New York is interesting because, besides that, the rest of the streets are primarily residential.”
Down by the waterfront in West New York, an Acme supermarket is conveniently located.
West New York has a South American influence that is present in many Argentinian Bakeries.
Berganline Ave is West New York's largest retail and restaurant center.
Berganline Ave in West New York has every type of entity needed for daily errands and dining.
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Humid summers, cold winters
The city experiences humid summers and cold winters with moderate snowfall. January is the snowiest month with 6.4 inches on average.
In 2023, there were 421 violent crimes, a 14% increase from the year before. Reported property crimes totaled 671, an 11% increase from 2022.
Written By
Paul Spencer
Photography Contributed By
Suzi Schirm
Video By
Edward Pokoj
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Ira Goodman,
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.
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On average, homes in West New York, NJ sell after 46 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in West New York, NJ over the last 12 months is $533,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
OPEN HOUSE Sat.(14th) 2pm to 4pm. Top floor, high ceiling with breathtaking views of NYC skyline and Hudson River! Affordable price for a full amenity highrise - the prestigious Versailles: Safe, quiet and clean, and recently finished several major capital improvement projects to maintain the building's architectual and financial integrity(see audited 2024 financial)! Discover this exceptional,
This two-family house in West New York is a fantastic find, offering both convenience and comfort! The first floor features a 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit with its own kitchen and living room. The second floor provides a larger 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit, also with its own kitchen and living room. You'll love the extra space in the finished basement. Plus, there's a private driveway with parking
Wilmer IzquierdoUNITED REAL ESTATE OF NORTH JERSEY
Live above it all in this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath corner residence with ~1,850 sq. ft. of living space and an additional 300 sq. ft. private terrace. Enjoy breathtaking, unobstructed NYC and Hudson River views from three exposures—East, South, and West. The expansive layout features a light-filled living area, beautiful hardwood floors, an open kitchen, and oversized bedrooms with abundant
Rosita WheelerChristie's International Real Estate Group-Edgewater
Isabel Terrace Condos - Built in 2008 - 2nd Floor Condo w/ Large 1 Bedroom Which Includes 2 Walk-in Closets, Tiled Bath Room w/Jacuzzi Tub, Living Room, Dining Area and Modern Kitchen w/Granite Countertops & Stainless Steel Appliances. All Hardwood Floors & Recessed Lighting Throughout. Central Air & Forced Hot Air. Underground Parking For 1 Car. Pets Are Allowed. Monthly Maintenance Fee of
Welcome to Riverview, a Cooperative pre-war building situated in the sought-after township of Weehawken. Indulge into a two-in-one, units E5 & E6, where the timeless allure of mid-century modern fuses with the dynamic energy of contemporary city living. Perched on the top floor of a classic elevator building, this exceptional home combines the charm of old school aesthetics with new school
Perfect 1st time homeowner or investment studio unit with close distance to Bergenline Ave shopping, bus stops, light rail, schools, houses of worship, restaurants and more. Maintenance includes cold water, sewer, trash, common area upkeep and snow removal. Unit heating system is not working properly and will be the responsibility of the next owner. Unit is being sold as-is. Buildng is not FHA
Completely gut renovated three bedroom + den, which can be used as a fourth bedroom. This home is ideal for the every day commuter. Heat & hot water included in the rent! This home is conveniently located just one short block from Bergenline Avenue, a main street with shops & restaurants. It’s also a short distance to New York City transportation, parks, & all major highways! Pet Friendly!
Welcome to this beautifully renovated Spacious 2-Bedroom, 1-Bath apartment located in the heart of West New York. This sun-drenched unit features a fresh modern layout with sleek upgrades that you will truly appreciate. Enjoy cooking in your spacious Eat-in kitchen with Quartz wrap-around Countertops, Shaker-Style Cabinets, and Stainless-Steel Appliances – Elegant large windows further accentuate
GREAT LOCATION! LARGE FURNISHED / SEMI FURNISHED ONE BEDROOM ON PARK AVE. CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEAR RESTAURANTS, SHOPS, TRANSPORTATION, AND JUST A BLOCK AWAY FROM BLVD EAST. THE APARTMENT OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE FLOOR PLAN WITH A COMFORTABLE SIZED BEDROOM WITH TWO LARGE CLOSETS. VERY LARGE LIVING ROOM WITH NEW CUSTOM BLINDS, ALL FRESHLY PAINTED AND FURNISHED BY A PROFESSIONAL DESIGNER. BRIGHT
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