Northern NJ TownsBergen CountyCloster

Closter, NJ
Home Buying & Selling Guide

Closter is a Bergen County borough in the eastern part of the county, offering residential appeal and access to major commute corridors.

Kathleen Falco
Written by Kathleen Falco, Licensed NJ Real Estate Professional, RE/MAX Select
Reviewed for accuracy by The Falco GroupLast updated: June 24, 2026
Bergen County, New JerseyEducational Guide — Not a Listing ServiceRead the FAQ →
History & Character

What Makes Closter Unique

Closter was incorporated as a borough in 1904 from Harrington Township. Its name derives from the Dutch word for 'monastery,' though no actual monastery existed — the name likely referenced the cloistered, secluded quality of the local landscape. The borough grew as a modestly prosperous residential community with direct access to New York via county roads and, later, the George Washington Bridge. Closter has maintained a small-town character with a genuine downtown area and K-12 educational continuity through Northern Valley Regional.

Notable Facts
  • 1Closter's downtown along Closter Dock Road has retained a neighborhood commercial character with independent businesses that is rare for a community this close to Manhattan.
  • 2The borough is one of the few in Bergen County where you can walk from a single residential neighborhood to parks, downtown retail, and school campuses without a car.
  • 3Closter's K-8 district feeds into Northern Valley Regional at Demarest, providing academic continuity that buyers with school-age children consistently cite as a primary reason for choosing the borough.

Housing in Closter

Closter's housing stock includes a mix of older Colonials and ranches, with some newer construction on available lots.

Commute & Transportation

Closter is primarily car-accessible, with Route 9W and the Palisades Parkway providing highway access toward New York.

Property Tax Considerations

Property taxes in Closter are consistent with eastern Bergen County communities. Buyers should verify the current effective rate for each home.

Nearby Towns Often Compared

Buyers often compare Closter with: Demarest, Norwood, Cresskill, Harrington Park. Speaking with a local specialist helps you understand how these communities differ in character, price, and fit for your needs.

Public Education

Schools Serving Closter

Elementary School
Hillside Elementary School
340 Homans Avenue, Closter, NJ 07624
Middle School
Hillside Elementary School (Gr. 5–8)
55 Herbert Ave, Closter, NJ 07624
High School
Northern Valley Regional HS at Demarest
130 Knickerbocker Rd, Demarest, NJ 07627

School boundaries are subject to change. Contact the district directly or verify the school assignment for a specific address before purchasing.

For Home Buyers

Buying in Closter

Closter attracts buyers seeking a quieter community with proximity to the George Washington Bridge and New York access. It is often compared with Demarest, Cresskill, and Norwood.

Questions buyers ask before purchasing in this town:

  • What is the typical price range for homes in Closter?
  • How competitive is the Closter real estate market?
  • What are the property taxes in Closter?
  • How does the commute from Closter to New York City work?
  • What types of homes are available in Closter?
  • What towns should I compare with Closter before deciding?
Schedule a Private Consultation
For Home Sellers

Selling in Closter

Sellers in Closter can appeal to buyers targeting eastern Bergen County. Preparing the home properly and pricing against local comparables drives results.

Questions sellers ask before listing in this town:

  • What is my home in Closter worth?
  • How long does it take to sell a home in Closter?
  • What should I do before listing my home in Closter?
  • What are the costs of selling a home in Closter?
  • Should I sell before or after buying my next home?
  • Who is the right real estate specialist for selling in Closter?
Request a Home Value Review

Whether You're Buying or Selling in Closter

What buyers should do before starting

  1. 1Understand your complete monthly budget including taxes and insurance
  2. 2Get pre-approved with a local lender before touring homes
  3. 3Research commute times and transportation options specific to your workplace
  4. 4Compare at least two or three nearby towns before deciding
  5. 5Review what type of home, lot size, and neighborhood character fits your needs
  6. 6Connect with a local specialist who knows this specific community

What sellers should do before listing

  1. 1Request a comparative market analysis specific to your home
  2. 2Walk through the property with a specialist's eye before listing
  3. 3Identify and address the most visible buyer concerns
  4. 4Understand the full cost of selling including commissions and transfer fees
  5. 5Prepare a strategy for pricing, timing, and showing
  6. 6Connect with a specialist who has sold in this specific market

This guide provides general educational information about Closter, NJ. It does not contain active property listings, guaranteed sale prices, or mortgage qualification determinations. Local conditions vary by property, price point, and timing. Contact a licensed real estate professional for advice specific to your situation.

Towns Often Compared with Closter

FAQ

Common Questions About Closter Real Estate

What is the typical price range for homes in Closter?

Closter's housing stock includes a mix of older Colonials and ranches, with some newer construction on available lots.

What are the property taxes in Closter?

Property taxes in Closter are consistent with eastern Bergen County communities. Buyers should verify the current effective rate for each home.

How does the commute from Closter work?

Closter is primarily car-accessible, with Route 9W and the Palisades Parkway providing highway access toward New York.

What towns are often compared with Closter?

Buyers often compare Closter with Demarest, Norwood, Cresskill, Harrington Park. A local specialist can help you understand how these communities differ in character, price, and fit. This is general educational information — contact us for guidance specific to your situation.

What is my home in Closter worth?

Home values in Closter depend on location, condition, recent comparable sales, and current market conditions. Request a free, no-obligation home value review for an estimate tailored to your property. This is general educational information, not an appraisal.

How do I get started buying or selling in Closter?

Start by understanding your budget and goals, then speak with a licensed New Jersey real estate professional familiar with Bergen County. The Falco Group offers free educational guidance with no obligation.

A Private Conversation

Thinking About Living in Closter?

Every community here has its own rhythm, and no page can tell you whether Closter truly fits the life you're planning. Kathleen can — honestly, confidentially, and with no obligation. Bring your questions; leave with clarity.