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
Zohar Zamir,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in West New York, NJ sell after 43 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in West New York, NJ over the last 12 months is $587,500, up 16% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this stunning home at the highly sought-after Hudson Club at Port Imperial. This spacious 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo offers approximately 767sf of thoughtfully designed living space and terrace with partial New York City skyline views. Enter into an open and airy layout highlighted by gleaming hardwood floors and natural light. The updated kitchen features wood cabinetry, granite
Perched on the top floor with soaring high ceilings, this stunning 1 br plus Den is a sanctuary in the sky. Every window serves as a frame for iconic NY vistas, offering sweeping, unobstructed views of the NYC skyline, the Hudson River, and the Veraazano Bridge. Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee or hosting sunset drinks on the Expansive Private terrace, the scale of the backdrop is
Beautiful River view from this studio Approx. 650 sq feet facing east with a Terrace approx. 200 sq feet Great for entertaining. Living room Modern Kitchen great closets tiled bath. Luxury hi-rise on Boulevard East, 24 hr. door person, Concierge, Elevator, shop on premises, ATM, swimming pool ,Bar B q area, storage, parking, Gym, Great location very convenient to shopping ,Restaurants, public
ONE BED/ONE BATH W BONUS SOLARIUM HAS UNOBSTRUCTED BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF ENTIRE NYC & RIVER,FROM 79TH ST TO VERRAZANO BRIDGE ! FROM GRANDIOSE ENTRY AND BEYOND BEAUTIFUL LONG-PLANK "REAL" HARDWOOD FLOORS,FULLY EQUIPED KITCHEN W FLOOR TO CEILING CABINETRY,GRANITE COUNTERTOPS,GLASS BACKSPLASH & ALL-STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES,CUSTOM FULL TUB/SHOWER BATH,LARGE BEDRM HAS BI-FOLD CLOSET & DEEP
Welcome to 6401 Park Avenue Condominiums — a beautifully modernized 1-bedroom, 1-bath home offering open-concept living. This luxurious residence features sophisticated contemporary finishes, soaring ceilings, recessed LED lighting, dark hardwood floors, and oversized windows that fill the space with natural light. The spacious bedroom includes a large closet and a custom steel-and-glass door
One or more photos have been virtually staged. Stunning 2BR/1BA duplex condo in the heart of West New York featuring 1,269 sq. ft. of modern living space. The open floor plan boasts a stylish kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, tiled backsplash, and plenty of cabinets, seamlessly flowing into the dining and living areas. The loft-style master suite includes a spacious
BRIGHT AND SUNNY,TASTEFULLY RE-IMAGINED OPEN-PLAN ONE BEDRM/1.5 BATH FEATURES BEAUTIFUL BAMBOO FLOORS,PASS THRU KITCHEN W CHERRY CABINETRY,ALL-STAINLESS DW,REFRIGERATER,OVEN,UNDER-COUNTER MICRO,ALL STONE COUNTERTOPS & ISLAND,DINING RM,LIVING RM W "6 PANELS OF WINDOW OVERLOOKING EMPIRE STATE BLDG TO VERRAZANO BRIDGE"! YOU WILL BE MESMORIZED BY VIEWS OF ICONIC NYC CITISCAPE AND THE YACHTS & BOATS
SPACIOUS ONE BEDRM +1.5 BATHS W OVERSIZED BEDRM FEATURES SOLARIUM,AND UNOBSTRUCTED NYC & RIVER VIEWS FRM ALL RMS! THIS COMPLETELY RENOVATED 1003 SQ FT CONDO HAS LARGE ENTRY FOYER,PRIVATE POWDER RM FOR GUESTS,KITCHEN W OPEN PASS-THRU,ALL STAINLESS APPLIANCES,LOTS OF STONE COUNTER SPACE TO CREATE DELICIOUS CUISINE,AND ABILITY TO SEE & CONVERSE W YOUR COMPANY ,WHILE ENTERTAINING,ALTHOUGH THEY MAY BE
3 Family with 4 Car Garage + 3 Tandem parking on West New York awaits with this income-producing three-family home. 30 x 100 Lot . The first-floor unit#1 features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and 1 full bathroom. Unit# 2 Features 3 bedrooms, a bright living room, a dining area, a kitchen, and 1 full bathroom. The unit #3 Features 3 bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and 1 full bathroom
Welcome to Nine on the Hudson—where modern luxury meets effortless style along the breathtaking Hudson River. This stunning 5th-floor residence spans approximately 1,395 sq. ft. and offers an exceptional layout featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a versatile den that easily transforms into a home office, formal dining area, or guest bedroom. Step inside and feel the difference—an open,
Completely renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home ideally located in the heart of West New York, just steps from Boulevard East and breathtaking NYC skyline views. Situated on the second floor, this move-in-ready residence features a sleek, updated design with stainless steel appliances and modern finishes throughout. Enjoy shared backyard access, on-site laundry, and dedicated storage, all within
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 1-bedroom, 1-bath corner unit offering 736 sq ft of comfortable, move-in-ready living in the highly desired Hudson Club waterfront community! Overlooking the courtyard, this home enjoys added privacy and a quiet atmosphere. The open living and dining area flows effortlessly to your private balcony - the perfect spot for morning coffee or unwinding at
Welcome to 20 Ave at Port Imperial—a bright and spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offering 1,090 sq ft of comfortable living. This west-facing unit features original hardwood floors, a kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and dishwasher, plus the convenience of an in-unit washer/dryer. Enjoy added value with custom built-in closets (1 year old) and excellent storage in the
SPACIOUS 1045 SQ FT ONE BEDRM + 1.5 BATH PLUS "BONUS RM",FOR HOME OFFICE,MEDIA ROOM, ETC. WOOD FLOORS ENTIRE UNIT, WHITE ON WHITE KITCHEN,CLOSETS GALORE,GREAT FOR STORAGE!! ALL UTILITIES & SPA AMENITIES:NEW INDOOR HTD POOL & HOT TUB, OUTDOOR HTD POOL,STATE-OF-THE-ART HEALTH CLUB & WEIGHT RMS,STEAM & SAUNA RMS,NEW TENNIS & PICKLEBALL CTS,BAR.B.Q. AREA,PRVT MINI-PARK,SPA LOUNGE W "FREE WI-FI",GAME
If you’re searching for the perfect blend of value, location, and turnkey condition, look no further—this beautifully updated condo checks every box! Ideally situated just steps from Boulevard East with easy access to NYC transportation, this home places you at the center of it all—parks, schools, restaurants, shopping, and more are all within walking distance. This move-in ready 3-bedroom
Luxury living at its finest in this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath residence located in the heart of West New York, just one block from the vibrant center of Bergenline Avenue. Enjoy unbeatable convenience with easy access to major highways, a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and houses of worship, as well as direct transportation to NYC via bus lines on Bergenline Avenue and
ALL UTILITIES & INTERNET INCLUDED. Spacious 1,100 sq ft corner 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath home at the prestigious Riviera Towers on Boulevard East. Partial NYC views. This sun-filled residence features an open living/dining layout, renovated kitchen with stainless-steel appliances, Dining area - can be used as den - and access to a large private terrace. Renovated bath and oversized bedroom with generous
Rosita Wheeler
PROMINENT PROPERTIES SOTHEBY'S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Welcome to 6045 Boulevard East Unit C9, a stylish and conveniently located 2-bedroom, 1-bath rental perfect for commuters and young professionals seeking easy access to New York City. This bright home offers 744 sq. ft. of updated living space with modern flooring, a refreshed kitchen, and an upgraded bathroom designed for comfortable everyday living. Set in a well-maintained elevator building
Experience elevated living in this fully renovated one-bedroom, 1.5-bath home with sweeping NYC skyline views, including the Empire State Building and One World Trade, stunning by day and night. Bright and airy, open concept, it features hardwood floors, remote-controlled blinds, California closets, abundant natural light and unit includes heating and A/C. Located in the Galaxy Towers, enjoy
Welcome to this stunning home at the highly sought-after Hudson Club at Port Imperial. This spacious 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo offers approximately 767sf of thoughtfully designed living space and terrace with partial New York City skyline views. Enter into an open and airy layout highlighted by gleaming hardwood floors and natural light. The updated kitchen features wood cabinetry, granite
ALL UTILITIES & INTERNET INCLUDED. Spacious 1,100 sq ft corner 1-bedroom, 1-bath home at the prestigious Riviera Towers on Boulevard East. Partial NYC views. This sun-filled residence features an open living/dining layout, renovated kitchen with stainless-steel appliances, Dining area - can be used as den - and access to a large private terrace. Renovated bath and oversized bedroom with generous
Rosita Wheeler
Prominent Properties Sotheby's International Realty-Weehawken
HARD-TO-FIND-GALAXY STUDIO,535 SQ FT OF LIVING SPACE W VIEW OF NYC SKYLINE,BRIGHT-N-SUNNY! WOOD KITCHEN CABINETRY,DW,REFRIGERATER,OVEN, W LGE PANTRY CLOSET,IN ADDITION TO 2 DOUBLE CLOSETS IN UNIT,FULL TUB/SHOWER BATHROOM! RENT INCLUDES:ALL UTILITIES & MEMBERSHIP TO GALAXY SPA FACILITIES: NEW INDOOR HTD POOL & HOT TUB,O.D. HTD POOL, STATE-OF-THE-ART HEALTH CLUB & WEIGHT RMS,GAME RM,SPA LOUNGE W
SUN-DRENCHED,SPACIOUS 3 BEDRM + 2.5 BATHS,LIVING RM,DINING RM PLUS SOLARIUM AND WALK-THRU KITCHEN,APPROX 1800 SQ FT LIVING SPACE W BREATH TAKING VIEW OF EAST/SOUTHEAST NYC & HUDSON RIVER FROM ALL ROOMS! POWDER RM AT ENTRY IDEAL FOR GUESTS, WALK THRU KITCHEN W LOTS OF WOOD CABINETRY AND STONE COUNTERTOPS,ALL STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES,IDEAL FOR CREATING DELICIOUS CUISINE! LIVING & DINING RM EXTEND
AVAILABLE JULY 1 LEASE START GREAT LOCATION JUST ONE BLOCK FROM BLVD EAST. EASY ACCESS TO THE FERRY, BUSES, LIGHTRAIL, SHOPPING, RESTAURANTS, PARKS AND MORE! LARGE FURNISHED / SEMI FURNISHED, PROFESSIONALLY DESIGNED ONE BEDROOM OFFERING AN ATTRACTIVE FLOOR PLAN WITH A COMFORTABLE SIZED BEDROOM, LARGE WALK IN CLOSET, A SUNLIT LIVING ROOM AND WORK FROM HOME SPACE, AND A MODERN KITCHEN AND BATHROOM
Experience elevated living in this fully renovated one-bedroom, 1.5-bath home with sweeping NYC skyline views, including the Empire State Building and One World Trade, stunning by day and night. Bright and airy, open concept, it features hardwood floors, remote-controlled blinds, California closets, abundant natural light and unit includes heating and A/C. Located in the Galaxy Towers, enjoy
Renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment in Union City. This inviting apartment offers a bright and spacious layout designed for both relaxation and everyday living. The updated kitchen features modern finishes and ample cabinet space, while the sleek bathroom adds a touch of contemporary style. Both bedrooms are generously sized, providing comfortable living space and flexibility for your
APPROX 1000 SQ FT,SPACIOUS ONE BEDRM + 1.5 BATHS &. OPEN-PLAN KITCHEN,SEPARATE DINING RM,OVERLOOKING NYC +HUDSON RIVER FROM EMPIRE ST BLDG TO VERRAZANO BRIDGE,ALL RMS! FULLY RENOVATED! AVAILABLE FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED,JUST BRING YOUR SUITCASE! MOVEIN READY! TREAT YOURSELF TO THE LUXURY LIFESTYLE AVAILABLE HERE AT THE GALAXY TOWERS,WHICH INCLUDES:ACCESS TO BOTH INDOOR & OUTDOOR HTD POOLS,HOT
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