About Garfield, NJ

About Garfield

Located in southern Bergen County along the Passaic River, Garfield, NJ is a lively city that combines urban energy with suburban convenience. With a population of about 32,456, Garfield is one of the most populous municipalities in the county. Known for its cultural diversity, affordable housing, and strong community pride, it has long been a welcoming home for families, professionals, and new immigrants.

Garfield’s housing market is highly varied, with options that include single-family homes, multifamily residences, and apartment complexes. Cape cods, colonials, and duplexes are common, and the city’s affordability compared to many other Bergen County towns makes it appealing to first-time buyers. Rental options are also plentiful, supporting a mix of homeowners and renters.

The city has a rich immigrant history, with strong Polish, Italian, Hispanic, and Eastern European communities contributing to Garfield’s cultural character. This diversity is reflected in its restaurants, festivals, and neighborhood traditions, which give the city its vibrant identity.

Community life thrives in Garfield, supported by parks, recreation programs, and civic organizations. Youth sports leagues, cultural events, and neighborhood gatherings foster a strong sense of pride among residents. The borough’s compact size and dense population also make it highly walkable and neighborly.

Education is overseen by the Garfield Public School District, which serves pre-K through twelfth grade. The district emphasizes both academics and extracurricular programs, while nearby parochial schools provide additional options for families. Education remains a key pillar of Garfield’s growth and appeal.

With its affordability, diversity, and urban-suburban mix, Garfield continues to stand out as a community where residents enjoy cultural richness, convenient access to New York City, and a strong sense of belonging.

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Average Home Values & Market Time

Garfield’s housing market is more affordable than many Bergen County towns, with median home price of around $597.5K. Single-family homes and multifamily properties dominate, offering opportunities for both buyers and investors. The market is competitive, with properties selling steadily due to high demand from families and commuters.

$597.5K

Median listing home price

$312

Median listing home price/Sq ft

$537.5K

Median sold home price

23

Median Days on Market

Population & Demographics

Garfield is home to roughly 32,456 residents, giving it the character of a small city within Bergen County. The population is highly diverse, with Polish, Italian, Hispanic, and Eastern European communities shaping its cultural identity. Families make up a large portion of households, while young professionals and retirees also contribute to the mix.

Total Population

Total Population

32,456
Native Garfield Residents

Native Garfield Residents

52.70%
Foreign Garfield Residents

Foreign Garfield Residents

47.30%

Niche Grades

Garfield receives strong ratings for diversity, nightlife, and commuting options. Its affordability and cultural vibrancy are standout features, though cost of living is still above national averages. Schools, outdoor activities, and safety receive moderate marks. Overall, Garfield is valued for its accessibility, cultural life, and affordable housing relative to the region.

C+

Over all Niche Grade

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

Top schools in Garfield, NJ

The Garfield Public School District oversees education from pre-K through twelfth grade. Garfield High School offers a variety of academic, athletic, and arts programs. Families also have access to private and parochial schools in and around the city. Parents value the district’s commitment to student growth and its role in fostering a strong sense of community.

Rating School Name Grades Reviews
5 Bergen Arts And Sciences Charter School K - 12
6 Columbus School No 8 K - 5
5 Lincoln School No 6 K - 5
9 Madison School No 10 K - 5
7 Roosevelt School No 7 K - 5
9 Thomas Jefferson School #9 K - 5
8 Washington Irving School No 4 K - 5
8 Woodrow Wilson School No 5 K - 5
Rating School Name Grades Reviews
5 Bergen Arts And Sciences Charter School K - 12
3 Garfield High School 9 - 12
Rating School Name Grades Reviews
5 Bergen Arts And Sciences Charter School K - 12
3 Garfield Middle School 6 - 8
Rating School Name Grades Reviews
NA Heritage Christian School K - 11
NA Margaret P Muscarelle Cdc PK - K
NA Northeast Christian Academy K - 12

Homes for Sale in Garfield, NJ

89-91 Semel Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

$750,000
89-91 Semel Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

Exceptional investment or owner-occupant opportunity in Garfield! Situated on a desirable double lot, this well-maintained two-family home offers a private driveway with ample off-street parking leading to a detached 2-car garage. Each unit has separate utilities and benefits from newer roof, windows, and carpeting. The first-floor apartment features 1 bedroom, while the second-floor unit offers 2 bedrooms plus finished 3rd-level...

  • 3 beds
  • 3 baths
89-91 Semel Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026
$750,000

169 Plauderville Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

$860,000
169 Plauderville Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

Welcome to this marvelous two-family home ideally situated on Plauderville Avenue in Garfield's highly sought-after Plauderville neighborhood. Blending the timeless charm of a 1920s classic with today's modern upgrades, this beautifully updated property offers exceptional versatility for homeowners and investors alike. Unit 1 features a formal living room, updated kitchen, spacious open-concept living and dining area, two generous bedrooms, and...

  • 5 beds
  • 3 baths
169 Plauderville Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026
$860,000

165 Palisade Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

$495,000
165 Palisade Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

Vacant corner lot zoned Retail/Commercial. Vacant building on Property (approx 900 sq ft). See pictures. High Traffic Area. Owner will finance.

    165 Palisade Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026
    $495,000

    Homes for Rent in Garfield, NJ

    481 Macarthur Ave Unit 1, Garfield, NJ 07026

    $3,000/mo
    481 Macarthur Ave Unit 1, Garfield, NJ 07026

    Nestled on a quiet residential street near the Saddle Brook border, this spacious first-floor rental in a two-family home offers the comfort and flexibility of house-style living. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a walkout basement, there's room to live, work, and entertain. The main level includes a welcoming living room, dining area, kitchen, three bedrooms, and a full...

    • 3 beds
    • 2 baths
    481 Macarthur Ave Unit 1, Garfield, NJ 07026
    $3,000 /mo

    481 Macarthur Ave Unit 2, Garfield, NJ 07026

    $1,800/mo
    481 Macarthur Ave Unit 2, Garfield, NJ 07026

    Bright and airy, this second-floor rental in a nicely-maintained two-family home offers comfortable living on a quiet residential street near the Saddle Brook border. The cozy living room fills with natural light, while the spacious bedroom, full bath, and eat-in kitchen provide a practical and welcoming layout. Featuring a peninsula, ample cabinetry, and generous counter space, the kitchen is ready...

    • 1 bed
    • 1 bath
    481 Macarthur Ave Unit 2, Garfield, NJ 07026
    $1,800 /mo

    231 Palisade Ave Unit 4, Garfield, NJ 07026

    $2,000/mo
    231 Palisade Ave Unit 4, Garfield, NJ 07026

    This bright and comfortable 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offers a practical layout, abundant natural light, and a location that makes everyday living easy. Large windows bring in sunshine throughout the day, creating an open and inviting feel across the living spaces. The apartment features a spacious bedroom with room to unwind, a well-appointed bathroom, and a functional kitchen designed to handle...

    • 1 bed
    • 1 bath
    231 Palisade Ave Unit 4, Garfield, NJ 07026
    $2,000 /mo

    Commercial Properties for Sale in Garfield, NJ

    82 Passaic St, Garfield, NJ 07026

    $1,190,000
    82 Passaic St, Garfield, NJ 07026

    INVESTORS OR TO OWN! LOCATION!!! (2 BUILDINGS IN ONE (Front and Rear Building) FOR SALES)! GREAT START UP NICE COMMERCIAL 700 SQ FT RETAIL SPACE FOR RENT. MAIN AVENUE (PASSAIC ST.) ON A HIGH TRAFFIC, DEVELOPMENT TOWN...VISIBLE RETAIL STREET OF GARFIELD NJ. SURROUNDING WITH RESTAURANTS, CONVENIENCE STORES, SCHOOLS, CAFE. BUS STOP ON THE SAME AVENUE BY THE PROPERTY TO NEW...

    • 700 sq ft
    82 Passaic St, Garfield, NJ 07026
    $1,190,000

    Commercial Properties for Lease in Garfield, NJ

    160 Belmont Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

    160 Belmont Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

    • 23,750 sq ft
    160 Belmont Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

    303 Semel Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

    303 Semel Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

    • 300 sq ft
    303 Semel Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026

    100-100 Outwater Ln, Garfield, NJ 07026

    100-100 Outwater Ln, Garfield, NJ 07026

    175,000 square foot industrial site located in Garfield, NJ. Owned and managed by Mynt Properties LLC.

    • 175,000 sq ft
    100-100 Outwater Ln, Garfield, NJ 07026

    Local Places in Garfield, NJ

    Garfield offers a wide range of amenities, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and local businesses. Its diverse food scene features Polish bakeries, Italian delis, Latin eateries, and American diners. Parks and fitness centers support an active lifestyle, while community programs and cultural events enhance the city’s livability. Larger shopping and entertainment options are easily accessible nearby.

    Local Attractions in Garfield, NJ

    Local attractions include community parks, cultural festivals, and recreational spaces along the Passaic River. Seasonal events and parades strengthen civic pride and celebrate Garfield’s diversity. Its central location also gives residents quick access to regional shopping in Paramus and cultural venues in nearby towns, as well as commuting access to Manhattan.

    S.No Attraction Type
    1 Danhert’s Lake County Park Park
    2 Passaic River Walks Point of Interest
    3 Garfield Recreation Center Park
    4 Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church Religious Site
    5 Belmont Hill Park Park
    6 Garfield Public Library Park
    7 Dignity & Memorial Parks (historic cemeteries) Park
    8 Local Polish & Italian Bakeries / Restaurants Point of Interest
    9 Annual Street Fairs & Parades Annual Event
    10 Neighborhood Playgrounds & Fields Park

    Latest News from Garfield, NJ

    24 Jul 2025 Garfield Residential

    Garfield, NJ Real Estate Guide (2025): Homes, Multi-Family Properties & Apartments

    Garfield, NJ is quickly becoming one of Bergen County’s most dynamic housing markets. Blending affordability with urban access and a growing inventory of multi-family homes and apartments, it’s an appealing choice for both buyers and renters in 2025. This guide highlights where to look for homes for sale, multi-family investment properties, and rental apartments in […]

    Guide to the City of Garfield, NJ (2025): City Hall, Courts, Police, and Public Services

    Located in Bergen County, the City of Garfield, NJ is a dynamic and diverse municipality with a growing population, strong local governance, and easy access to public services. Whether you’re a new resident, property owner, or simply planning a move, understanding the borough’s civic infrastructure — from City Hall to DPW and public schools — […]

    Where to Eat in Garfield, NJ (2025): Pizza, Burgers, Polish Delis & More Local Favorites

    Garfield, NJ might not make national headlines for food — but locals know it’s one of Bergen County’s most deliciously underrated towns. The city’s culinary scene blends Latin flavors, Italian classics, barbecue, and Eastern European staples with the kind of personality only a tight-knit town can deliver. From go-to takeout spots to banquet halls and […]

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