Looking to save on property taxes while living in one of New Jersey’s most desirable counties? Bergen County offers a surprising number of towns with relatively low property tax burdens. Below, we break down which towns in Bergen County have the lowest property taxes, why that might be, and what you need to know if you’re looking to move.
Want to Live in Bergen County Without the High Tax Bill?
It’s true—Bergen County has one of the highest average property tax rates in New Jersey, exceeding $11,000 per year. But there’s good news: not all towns in the county follow that trend. In fact, some have property tax bills that are thousands of dollars below the county average.
The Top 5 Low-Property-Tax Towns in Bergen County for 2025
According to the latest 2024 property tax data from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, these five Bergen County towns offer the lowest average annual property taxes:
- Teterboro: With an average property tax bill of just $1,950, Teterboro stands out as the county’s most tax-friendly town. Its dominant commercial footprint—especially the airport and surrounding business infrastructure—shifts much of the tax burden away from homeowners.
- Ridgefield Park: Residents pay around $6,200 annually. The borough benefits from efficient budgeting and modest home values, helping to keep taxes down.
- Bogota: With an average bill of $6,500, Bogota maintains lower taxes through streamlined services and a small-scale governance model.
- Elmwood Park: This town balances its residential and commercial tax base, resulting in an average tax bill of $6,700—well below the county norm.
- Garfield: At $7,000, Garfield rounds out the top five, thanks in part to its higher population density, which helps distribute municipal costs more broadly.
Why These Towns Stand Out
Several key factors contribute to the lower tax rates in these municipalities:
- Commercial-Heavy Infrastructure: In places like Teterboro, a robust commercial presence supports local budgets, lessening the tax burden on residents.
- Higher Density = Lower Individual Costs: Towns with higher population density, like Garfield, can distribute public costs across more households.
- Streamlined Governance: Smaller towns or those with leaner municipal operations—like Bogota—often spend less, which translates into lower tax bills.
Other Bergen County Towns Worth a Look
Beyond the top five, towns like Lodi and Wallington also offer average tax bills well below the county average. These communities are worth considering if you’re looking for additional options with budget-friendly homeownership.
How Does Bergen County Compare to the Rest of New Jersey?
Even though Bergen County is one of the priciest in New Jersey for property taxes overall, choosing a low-tax town within it could save you $4,000 to $9,000 per year compared to the county average. Over a 30-year mortgage, those savings can add up to more than $270,000.
Choosing the Right Low-Tax Town for Your Needs
- For First-Time Buyers: Consider Bogota and Elmwood Park, where you’ll find a solid combination of affordability and location.
- For Retirees: Teterboro and Ridgefield Park offer stable, low fixed costs that are ideal for retirement budgeting.
- For Real Estate Investors: With lower carrying costs, homes in towns like Garfield and Elmwood Park may yield a better return on investment.
FAQs
Are Bergen County property taxes lower than in other counties?
No. Bergen is among the highest in the state, but some individual towns offer much lower bills.
What determines property tax amounts?
Local budgets, school district funding needs, property assessments, and the balance between commercial and residential properties all influence tax rates.
Can I appeal my property tax bill?
Yes. Homeowners can appeal their property’s assessed value through their local assessor’s office if they believe it’s too high.
Do lower taxes mean fewer services?
Often, yes. Some towns with lower taxes may offer fewer municipal services or amenities, so consider your lifestyle needs before making a move.
How do school taxes factor in?
A significant portion of your property tax bill typically funds the local school district. Towns with smaller or more efficient school systems often have lower total taxes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a smart way to stay in Bergen County without taking on sky-high property taxes, these towns offer a compelling alternative. While lower taxes can mean fewer services in some cases, the financial benefits are real—especially over the long term.
Be sure to explore each town’s amenities, school system, and community offerings to ensure it’s the right fit for your lifestyle and financial goals. Property tax savings are only part of the picture-but they can significantly shape your future housing costs.
