Northern NJ TownsPassaic CountyPassaic

Passaic, NJ
Home Buying & Selling Guide

Passaic is a densely populated Passaic County city with diverse housing options and access to multiple transportation 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
Passaic County, New JerseyEducational Guide — Not a Listing ServiceRead the FAQ →
History & Character

What Makes Passaic Unique

Passaic was incorporated as a city in 1873. Located along the Passaic River, it developed as one of the most important industrial cities in New Jersey, with wool dyeing, textile manufacturing, and chemical industries that attracted large waves of Jewish, Italian, and Eastern European immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today Passaic is a densely populated, majority-Latino city that has been undergoing gradual reinvestment, with its proximity to major transit and lower housing costs attracting buyers and investors.

Notable Facts
  • 1Passaic was one of New Jersey's most important industrial cities in the early 20th century — its textile and chemical industries attracted immigrants from across Europe and created a uniquely diverse community.
  • 2The Passaic River, which gives the city its name, has been both an industrial asset and an environmental challenge; significant cleanup and greenway development have improved the waterfront.
  • 3Passaic's proximity to Routes 3 and 21 and NJ Transit bus service makes it one of the more transit-accessible cities in Passaic County.

Housing in Passaic

Passaic offers a range of multi-family buildings, condos, and some single-family homes in a dense urban setting.

Commute & Transportation

Passaic has NJ Transit rail service on the Main Line to New York Penn Station, along with bus routes and Route 21 highway access.

Property Tax Considerations

Property taxes in Passaic should be confirmed for each specific property. The full monthly cost should be part of any buyer's evaluation.

Nearby Towns Often Compared

Buyers often compare Passaic with: Clifton, Garfield, Lodi, East Rutherford. Speaking with a local specialist helps you understand how these communities differ in character, price, and fit for your needs.

Public Education

Schools Serving Passaic

Elementary School
Casimir Pulaski School No. 8
100 Fourth St., Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
Daniel F. Ryan Elementary School No. 19
320 Highland Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
Etta Gero School No. 9
140 First St., Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
Mario Drago School No. 3
155 Van Houten Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
Martin Luther King Jr. School No. 6
85 Hamilton Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
Sonia Sotomayor School #21
225 Madison Street, Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
Theodore Roosevelt School No. 10
151 Harrison St., Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
Thomas Jefferson School No. 1
390 Van Houten Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
Ulysses S. Grant School No. 7
155 Summer St., Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
Vincent Capuana School No. 15
374 Broadway, Passaic, NJ 07055
Elementary School
William B. Cruise Memorial School No. 11
390 Gregory Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055
Middle School
Lincoln Middle School
600 Passaic Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055
High School
Passaic High School
655 Main Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055

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 Passaic

Passaic attracts buyers seeking value in Passaic County with NJ Transit rail access to New York Penn Station and bus service throughout the region.

Questions buyers ask before purchasing in this town:

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

Selling in Passaic

Sellers in Passaic serve a large and diverse buyer pool. Accurate pricing and clear property condition disclosure are key considerations.

Questions sellers ask before listing in this town:

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

Whether You're Buying or Selling in Passaic

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 Passaic, 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 Passaic

FAQ

Common Questions About Passaic Real Estate

What is the typical price range for homes in Passaic?

Passaic offers a range of multi-family buildings, condos, and some single-family homes in a dense urban setting.

What are the property taxes in Passaic?

Property taxes in Passaic should be confirmed for each specific property. The full monthly cost should be part of any buyer's evaluation.

How does the commute from Passaic work?

Passaic has NJ Transit rail service on the Main Line to New York Penn Station, along with bus routes and Route 21 highway access.

What towns are often compared with Passaic?

Buyers often compare Passaic with Clifton, Garfield, Lodi, East Rutherford. 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 Passaic worth?

Home values in Passaic 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 Passaic?

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

A Private Conversation

Thinking About Living in Passaic?

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