CLOSTER
Bergen County
Chart rank: 10
High school rank, 2018: 15
Population: 8,766
Median home price: $805,000
WHY WE LIKE IT: After the 2016 renovation of a derelict 1960s shopping center, Closter reclaimed its place as the retail hub for northeastern Bergen County. Just a few blocks away from the shopping center, the walkable downtown includes throw-back businesses like Hometown Hardware and Ward’s 5&10. A nature center in the heart of town and a trail along the Tenakill Brook offer an escape from the suburban bustle. The bus commute to New York City takes 60-90 minutes, and the George Washington Bridge is about 11 miles away via the Palisades Interstate Parkway. Homes range from $400,000 for smaller, older properties to $2 million-plus for luxury manors on the East Hill.
MAIN ATTRACTIONS: Architecture lovers can check out a Lustron home, a small, prefabricated, steel home made after World War II. One of only two left in Bergen County, it’s owned by the borough. Foodies thrill to Ma Mi, a Vietnamese restaurant, and the Hill, a showcase for the talents of Michelin-star-winning chef Ben Pollinger.
FUN FACT: British soldiers raided the town during the Revolutionary War, resulting in the death of a 90-year-old resident.—KL