About Fort Lee, NJ
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
39,700
Native Fort Lee Residents
49.60%
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.
Over all Niche Grade
Niche Grade of Fort Lee, NJ
Public Schools
Cost of Living
Diversity
Housing
Jobs
Outdoor Activities
Weather
Crime & Safety
Nightlife
Health & Fitness
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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 |