Raising a Family in Allendale, NJ: Why More Parents Are Choosing This Bergen County Gem
In a world where family life often gets lost in the chaos of long commutes, crowded cities, and disconnected neighborhoods, Allendale, NJ offers a rare alternative — space, safety, and a strong sense of community. Tucked into the heart of Bergen County, this charming suburb has quietly become one of the top choices for families seeking more than just square footage. They want lifestyle. They want connection. They want home.
Here’s why raising a family in Allendale might just be one of the best decisions you make in 2025.
A True Family-Oriented Town — With Room to Breathe
Allendale blends small-town warmth with suburban convenience. You’ll find wide sidewalks, mature trees, neighbors who actually say hello, and kids biking to the park after school.
Whether you’re coming from Hoboken, Jersey City, or Manhattan, the pace of Allendale is different. It’s not sleepy — it’s balanced. Parents work hard, kids stay active, and evenings are for catching fireflies or walking downtown for ice cream.
Exceptional Schools (That Are Actually Walkable)
Ask any Bergen County parent what matters most, and “schools” comes up first. In Allendale, the public school system doesn’t disappoint.
- Hillside School (PreK–3) and Brookside School (Grades 4–8) consistently receive top ratings , thanks to small class sizes, involved teachers, and well-rounded curriculums.
- Most students advance to Northern Highlands Regional High School, ranked as one of the best high schools in Bergen County, known for its AP programs, competitive sports, and college-prep excellence.
- Average student-teacher ratio: 12:1
- School district ranking: Top 5% in NJ
- Bonus: Many homes are within walking or biking distance of schools.
Best Schools in Bergen County, NJ: Why Allendale Stands Out in 2025
What About Preschool & Daycare?
For families with toddlers and infants, Allendale offers a handful of highly rated preschools and daycare centers, including:
- Allendale Early Learning Center
- The Archer Cooperative Nursery School
- Local church-based programs and Montessori options nearby
Spots fill fast, but most providers offer part-time and full-day options for working parents.
Parks, Nature, and Real Play
If your ideal weekend includes letting the kids run wild — in nature, not on screens — Allendale’s outdoor spaces will feel like a dream.
Crestwood Lake & Park
Allendale’s summer jewel — sandy beaches, lifeguards, playgrounds, ballfields, and picnic pavilions. Resident-only in summer months, it offers safety and a community feel.
The Celery Farm
A 107-acre nature preserve with boardwalks and birdwatching blinds. Great for stroller walks, quiet weekends, or introducing kids to wildlife in the wild.
Bike Paths & Sidewalks
From Brookside School to downtown, Allendale is built to walk. You’ll see bikes, scooters, and strollers almost year-round.
Parks, Trails & Outdoor Activities in Allendale, NJ: A Local’s Guide to Nature & Recreation
Community Events That Actually Feel Like Community
In Allendale, the calendar is filled with kid-focused and family-friendly traditions that bring the town together.
- Fourth of July fireworks at Crestwood Lake
- Halloween parade downtown + trick-or-treat on Center Street
- Movie nights in the park
- Holiday tree lighting with hot cocoa and carols
- “Touch-a-Truck” days hosted by local fire & police departments
Want your child to grow through leadership or service? Allendale is home to Scouts Troop 59 and other youth enrichment clubs.
A Walkable Downtown with Real Personality
Unlike many suburban towns that are a string of strip malls, Allendale’s downtown feels personal. You’ll find:
- Family-run cafés and ice cream shops
- A charming train station with NYC access
- Bookstores, bakeries, and seasonal farmer’s markets
- Pediatricians, dentists, and wellness clinics within walking distance
You can run errands and run into neighbors — all in the same morning.
Commuting Without Compromising Family Time
Let’s be real — raising a family doesn’t mean giving up your career. And Allendale gets that.
- Train to NYC (via Secaucus): ~65 minutes
- Nearby express bus Park & Rides: Ridgewood, Ramsey, and Mahwah
- Many families now operate on hybrid work schedules, making the 2–3 day commute totally doable
Bonus: The slower commute buys you more — space, air, schools, and sanity.
Commuting to NYC from Allendale, NJ: What Every Homebuyer Should Know in 2025
What Are Homes Like in Allendale?
Most of Allendale is made up of single-family homes on quiet tree-lined streets, with 3–5 bedrooms, finished basements, and generous backyards.
- ️ Median home price (2025): ~$875,000
- ️ Popular neighborhoods: West Orchard, Crescent Ave, and Hillside areas
- Many homes are within walking distance to schools and downtown
Families love that you don’t have to compromise space for location — and resale values are historically strong.
Safety, Healthcare & Simplicity
Safety here means more than just low crime stats (though those are solid, too). It’s also about access and ease.
- Low crime rate: Consistently ranks below state and national averages
- Pediatric & urgent care nearby: Ridgewood’s Valley Hospital is 10 mins away
- Walkable daily services: Doctors, dentists, and essentials within town
A Growing, Inclusive Community
Allendale’s roots run deep, but the community continues to welcome new families from all backgrounds. You’ll see this in the schools, at town events, and even in local businesses.
It’s a place where people genuinely invest in the community, from volunteering at PTA to coaching Little League.
Final Word: Is Allendale the Right Town to Raise Your Family?
If you’re looking for loud nightlife or high-rise city buzz — Allendale isn’t it.
But if you want a place where your kids can ride their bike to school, where weekends are filled with nature and neighbors, and where you can invest in a lifestyle that supports growth and wellness — Allendale is one of the best towns in Bergen County to raise a family.
Ready to Explore Family Homes in Allendale?
We help families find the perfect home near top schools, safe parks, and commuter-friendly spots across Bergen County.
Walk-to-school listings
Family-friendly cul-de-sacs
Commuter property guidance
Contact us today to start your move to Allendale, NJ — where family life actually feels like family life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Raising a Family in Allendale, NJ
1. Is Allendale a good town for families?
Yes, Allendale is considered one of the best towns in Bergen County for families, offering top-rated schools, low crime, walkable neighborhoods, and strong community values.
2. What schools do children attend in Allendale?
Children typically attend Hillside School (PreK–3), Brookside School (4–8), and then Northern Highlands Regional High School — all highly rated institutions.
3. Are there activities for kids in Allendale?
Yes, from Crestwood Lake and The Celery Farm to community events like movie nights, parades, and sports leagues — kids stay active year-round.
4. Is Allendale walkable for families?
Absolutely. Downtown Allendale, the schools, parks, and many residential streets are walkable and stroller-friendly.
5. Is Allendale diverse and inclusive?
While historically a small suburban town, Allendale is growing more diverse and continues to welcome families from many cultural and professional backgrounds.
