Rutherford, NJ is a prime location for commuters seeking a suburban lifestyle while staying connected to New York City. With easy access to trains, buses, and highways, this borough offers multiple options for reaching Manhattan and nearby business hubs.
Commuting by Train
The Rutherford NJ Train Station is located at 1 Station Square and serves the NJ Transit Bergen County Line.
- Destination: Secaucus Junction in 8 minutes, then transfer to Penn Station NYC in under 20 minutes.
- Schedule & Fares: View the NJ Transit Rutherford Station timetable.
- Amenities: Waiting room, ticket machines, and nearby coffee shops for your morning commute.
Bus Connections
Several NJ Transit bus lines connect Rutherford directly to Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC:
- NJ Transit Bus 190 – Direct route to Manhattan.
- NJ Transit Bus 192 – Additional weekday commuter service.
Bus stops are conveniently located along Park Avenue and Union Avenue, with shelters and seating.
Driving & Highways
Rutherford is strategically located near major highways:
- Route 3 – Direct access to the Lincoln Tunnel.
- Route 17 – Northbound toward Paramus and southbound toward Meadowlands.
- NJ Turnpike (I-95) – Easy access to regional destinations.
Tip: Morning rush-hour traffic can add 15–20 minutes to your trip, especially near the Lincoln Tunnel approach.
Parking Options
- Rutherford Commuter Lot – Borough-managed permit parking for residents.
- Metered Street Parking – Available near the station for short-term use.
For permits, visit the Borough of Rutherford Parking Information Page.
Cycling & Walking
Rutherford’s compact size makes biking or walking to the train station feasible for many residents. Bike racks are available at the station for secure storage.
Realistic Commute Times to NYC
- Train + Transfer: 30–40 minutes to Penn Station NYC.
- Direct Bus: 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Car: 20–35 minutes during off-peak, up to 60 minutes during rush hour.
Why Commuters Love Rutherford
- Small-Town Feel: Walkable downtown with restaurants like Mambo Tea House (GMB Map) and Café Matisse (GMB Map).
- Recreational Access: Close to parks like Memorial Park for pre- or post-work relaxation.
- Proximity to Meadowlands: Quick drive to MetLife Stadium for sports and events.
FAQs
Q1. How much is parking at the Rutherford commuter lot?
Permit fees vary; check the borough’s parking page for current rates.
Q2. Can I bike to Rutherford station?
Yes—bike racks are available for commuter use.
Q3. Is the bus or train faster during rush hour?
The train is often more reliable during peak traffic periods.
Q4. Do NJ Transit trains from Rutherford run on weekends?
Yes—though schedules are less frequent; check NJ Transit’s website.
