Central/North Central NJ towns to consider? (Teaneck, Fort Lee: house, schools)

[TrumMan]

Dear all,

My family and I are looking to move from CT to NJ to be closer to extended family in northern NJ which I am familiar with. I am not however familiar with central NJ whereas most of the jobs in my industry are in central or south/central nj. What towns would you recommend based on the following:

1) want a somewhat walkable downtown area or barring that at least a reasonable amount of restaurants and shopping available in town
2) want to get a 1700-2000 sq ft house for under $500k that is in decent shape
3) has at least good if not great schools
4) is fairly convenient to major highways but not to ally choked with traffic all day
5) has or is close to towns that have ample park or natural areas

Geographical boundaries would allow for being 45 min max from Bergen county

Any and all advice appreciated!

Thanks,
John

[millerm277]

most of the jobs in my industry are in central or south/central nj.

That's a big area. Can you narrow it down or mention the industry? (I'm guessing medical/pharma?)

And are you trying to be 45 min max from Bergen County at rush hour or off-peak? Very different ranges.

[ansky]

Originally Posted by millerm277

And are you trying to be 45 min max from Bergen County at rush hour or off-peak? Very different ranges.

Yeah, and where in Bergen County would you be coming from? There is a huge difference between the northern and southern parts of the county. There would be a big difference time wise commuting from somewhere like Park Ridge vs. Rutherford.

[imoapie]

Depending on where in Bergen, this puts your roughly around route 78.

[TrumMan]

Sure: yes it is pharma and I want to stay within 30-45 minutes "off-peak" from the Fort Lee/Leonia/Teaneck area. It is a fairly large area I am talking about still but any ideas are helpful of towns to consider.

Thanks.