About Fort Lee, NJ

About Fort Lee

Perched high on the Palisades and overlooking the Hudson River, Fort Lee, New Jersey is one of Bergen County’s most desirable communities. Known as the “Gateway to the George Washington Bridge,” Fort Lee blends urban convenience with suburban charm, making it a top choice for professionals, families, and retirees who want quick access to Manhattan without sacrificing neighborhood character.

Fort Lee’s history runs deep. It played an important role during the Revolutionary War and later became the birthplace of the American motion picture industry. Today, that heritage is celebrated through cultural institutions like the Barrymore Film Center and Fort Lee Historic Park. Yet, while its past is notable, Fort Lee is very much a modern, thriving town that reflects the diversity and dynamism of the New York metropolitan area.

Housing in Fort Lee is remarkably varied, from sleek high-rise condominiums with skyline views to more traditional single-family homes tucked into leafy streets. The abundance of condos makes it particularly attractive to first-time buyers and commuters, while long-established neighborhoods give families room to grow. With demand remaining strong, the housing market is competitive, but the wide selection of property types means there is something for nearly every buyer.

Fort Lee’s population is a tapestry of cultures and backgrounds. It is home to one of the largest Korean-American communities in the country, giving rise to an extraordinary dining scene with authentic Korean restaurants, bakeries, and specialty shops. This cultural richness extends to Italian, Japanese, and Hispanic influences, creating a vibrant environment where residents can experience a world of flavors, festivals, and traditions without leaving town.

Education is another cornerstone of Fort Lee’s appeal. The Fort Lee School District is consistently ranked among the best in the region, with schools like Lewis F. Cole Middle School and Fort Lee High School offering rigorous academics and well-rounded extracurriculars. Families prioritize the district for its commitment to preparing students for college and beyond, which further drives the town’s popularity with homebuyers.

Amenities in Fort Lee cover every modern convenience. Residents enjoy trendy coffee shops, family-owned bakeries, upscale grocery stores, and a variety of fitness centers. The town’s restaurants reflect its multicultural fabric, drawing food lovers from all over northern New Jersey. Parks, community programs, and local businesses add to the quality of life, giving Fort Lee a self-sufficient feel even as it sits right next to New York City.

Attractions are equally impressive. Fort Lee Historic Park offers scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline. The Barrymore Film Center celebrates the borough’s cinematic history with screenings and cultural programming. Combined with recreational facilities, shopping destinations, and quick access to regional highways, Fort Lee offers something for everyone, whether you are a history buff, foodie, or outdoor enthusiast.

In short, Fort Lee delivers the best of both worlds: cosmopolitan energy and suburban livability. Its diverse population, strong schools, vibrant amenities, and historic character make it one of Bergen County’s most dynamic and enduringly popular communities.

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Average Home Values & Market Time

Fort Lee’s housing market reflects steady demand, with a median listing price of about $415K and a median sold price of $567K. Condominiums dominate the local inventory, offering modern amenities and sweeping river views, while single-family homes remain highly desirable. Homes average around $445 per square foot, and properties near the George Washington Bridge or downtown often sell quickly due to prime location and commuter convenience.

$415K

Median listing home price

$445

Median listing home price/Sq ft

$567K

Median sold home price

39

Median Days on Market

Population & Demographics

With a population of 39,700, Fort Lee is one of the most diverse towns in Bergen County. It is home to a large Korean-American community as well as vibrant Italian, Japanese, and Hispanic populations. This cultural mix creates an inclusive environment where residents enjoy international dining, cultural festivals, and community events. Families, professionals, and retirees alike are drawn to Fort Lee’s welcoming and dynamic atmosphere.

Total Population

Total Population

39,700
Native Fort Lee Residents

Native Fort Lee Residents

49.60%
Foreign Fort Lee Residents

Foreign Fort Lee Residents

50.40%

Niche Grades

Fort Lee consistently earns an A+ overall grade for quality of life. Highlights include A+ ratings in public schools and health & fitness, along with excellent commuting options thanks to the George Washington Bridge. While cost of living is higher than average, reflecting the area’s popularity, the town balances affordability with access to amenities. Crime and safety, jobs, and housing receive solid marks, making Fort Lee attractive across demographics.

A+

Over all Niche Grade

Niche Grade of Fort Lee, NJ
A+
Public Schools
C
Cost of Living
A
Diversity
B-
Housing
B
Jobs
A
Outdoor Activities
B-
Weather
B-
Crime & Safety
A+
Nightlife
A+
Health & Fitness
A-
Commute

Top schools in Fort Lee, NJ

The Fort Lee School District is among the most respected in Bergen County, drawing families from across the region. Schools like Lewis F. Cole Middle School and Fort Lee High School receive strong academic ratings and provide extensive extracurricular programs. The district emphasizes academic rigor and community involvement, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education and future careers. Education remains a major driver of the town’s desirability.

Rating School Name Grades Reviews
8 Lewis F Cole Middle School 5 - 8
9 School No. 1 K - 4
9 School No. 2 K - 4
9 School No. 3 K - 4
6 School No. 4 K - 4
Rating School Name Grades Reviews
6 Fort Lee High School 9 - 12
Rating School Name Grades Reviews
8 Lewis F Cole Middle School 5 - 8
Rating School Name Grades Reviews
NA Christ The Teacher Interparochial School PK - 8
NA Green House Pre-School And Kindergarten PK - K
NA Small World Montessori School PK - K
NA Y C S Fort Lee Education Center 7 - 12

Local Amenities in Fort Lee, NJ

Residents benefit from a wide variety of local amenities, from coffee shops like Kudo Society Café and Urban Tomato to grocery stores, pharmacies, and fitness centers. Dining is a particular highlight, with Fort Lee offering some of the area’s best Korean cuisine alongside Italian and American favorites. These everyday conveniences ensure residents enjoy both comfort and variety without needing to leave town for essentials or entertainment.

Kudo Society Cafe
Urban Tomato
The Gyro Project
The Chipped Cup
D’avant Bakery
The Uptown Garrison
Jubilee Chocolate Cafe
Kung Fu Tea
Eggty 8 Cafe
Roast’d Coffee – Fort Lee
Mobil
BP Fuel
Sunoco Palisade South
J & M Exxon Tiger Mart
Sunoco
Atlas Sunoco
Speedway
Lukoil
Shell Gasoline Station
Faithful Works
H Mart – Fort Lee
Moscow On The Hudson
Han Nam Bunsik
Cafasso’s Fairway Market
Foodtown
Fresh Superette
Franks Marketplace
ACME Markets
Ilayda Marketplace
CTown Supermarkets
Oval Pharmacy
Center Pharmacy
Richards Pharmacy
Melbran Pharmacy
CVS Pharmacy
Walgreens
Rite Aid
ShabuRo
Obaltan
Harlem Public
The Handpulled Noodle
Menya Sandaime
The River Palm Terrace
Saigon Kitchen
City Perch Kitchen + Bar
Mama Sushi
Chillers Grill

Local Attractions in Fort Lee, NJ

Fort Lee offers a rich mix of cultural and recreational attractions. Fort Lee Historic Park provides history lessons and breathtaking Hudson River views, while the Barrymore Film Center celebrates the town’s cinematic roots. Community parks, fitness facilities, and cultural programming keep residents engaged year-round. With easy access to both local treasures and the excitement of Manhattan, Fort Lee offers unmatched opportunities for leisure and lifestyle.

S.No Attraction Type
1 Fort Lee Historic Park (Revolutionary War site) Park
2 Barrymore Film Center Point of Interest
3 Fort Lee Museum – Judge Moore House Museum
4 Hudson Lights (dining & shopping) Shopping
5 Fort Lee Community Center (theater) Performing Arts
6 Main Street Dining & Shops (Korean BBQ) Shopping
7 Historic Film District Markers Historic Landmark
8 Fort Lee Public Library Library
9 Ross Dock & Englewood Picnic Areas (nearby) Park
10 George Washington Bridge Overlooks Park