Why Old Tappan, NJ?
Old Tappan is an upscale residential borough at the New York border feeding into Northern Valley Old Tappan High School, ranked in NJ's top 10. Large colonial homes on generous lots, the Old Tappan Golf Course, and a community of under 6,000 residents define this quiet enclave. A growing Korean-American community adds diversity. At $850K, it offers NV schools and estate-style living at a significant discount to Alpine.
Old Tappan Real Estate Market in 2026
Old Tappan homes sell in 30 days at an $850K median. The market is almost exclusively single-family homes on half-acre to full-acre lots. Prices range from $650K to $1.5M+.
Best Neighborhoods in Old Tappan
3 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range
Old Tappan Heights / Golf Course
$850,000 to $1,500,000Premium section with larger homes and wooded lots near the 9-hole Old Tappan Golf Course and the semi-private River Vale Country Club (18 holes) just east. Estate-style living.
Lake Tappan / Western
$800,000 to $1,200,000Properties near Lake Tappan and the Hackensack River on the western border. Water views and nature access. Near the NY state line (Rockland County).
Central Old Tappan
$700,000 to $950,000Established colonials on tree-lined streets near schools. Walking distance to Oakes Park with its two-tiered fountain and paved paths through trees.
Commuting from Old Tappan to NYC
Source: NJ Transit schedules, June 2026. Peak hour commute times.
Walkability and Livability in Old Tappan
How easy is it to live car-free or car-light in Old Tappan?
Old Tappan Schools and Ratings
Old Tappan students attend Northern Valley Old Tappan High School, consistently ranked in NJ's top 10 with exceptional AP offerings and college placement. 917 students in a focused academic environment. T. Baldwin Demarest Elementary School serves the borough K through 6.
Source: NCES CCD 2023 to 2024, NJDOE NJSLA 2024 to 2025
Charles DeWolf Middle School
Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan
T. Baldwin Demarest Elementary School
Old Tappan vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison
Where to Eat in Old Tappan
Local
Old Tappan has limited commercial activity by design. The Old Tappan Road corridor has select restaurants. Nearby Closter and Northvale provide additional dining. The residential character is the point — dining destinations are minutes away without commercial intrusion.
Parks and Recreation in Old Tappan
Old Tappan Golf Course
Public 9-hole golf course. River Vale Country Club's 18-hole course is adjacent.
Oakes Park
Borough park with a two-tiered fountain, paved walking paths through mature trees, picnic areas, and playground.
Bonnabel Nature Park
Nature preserve for walking and outdoor exploration.
Stone Point Park
Playground and recreation area.
New Development and Growth in Old Tappan
History of Old Tappan, NJ
Named after the Tappan Native American people who inhabited the area before European contact. The borough covers 4.16 square miles bordered by the NY state line to the north.
Old Tappan was originally part of Harrington Township before incorporating in 1894.
Lake Tappan and the Hackensack River form the western boundary, creating a scenic waterfront edge.
The borough has maintained low-density residential zoning throughout its history — 37% of households have children under 18 and the median age of 46.6 reflects established families.
Safety in Old Tappan
Old Tappan is one of the safest communities in Bergen County.
Notable Residents
Annual Events and Festivals
Frequently Asked Questions About Old Tappan, NJ
What is the median home price in Old Tappan, NJ?
The median home price is $850,000 as of 2026, with 4.8% year-over-year appreciation. Average $365/sqft, selling in 30 days.
How long is the commute from Old Tappan to NYC?
45 minutes via NJ Transit from on the Bus to GWB Terminal. Transfer required.
What are property taxes in Old Tappan, NJ?
Tax rate is 2.01%. Average homeowner pays $18,234/year. At the median price of $850,000, expect about $17,085/year.
What are the best neighborhoods in Old Tappan?
Old Tappan Heights / Golf Course ($850,000 to $1,500,000). Lake Tappan / Western ($800,000 to $1,200,000). Central Old Tappan ($700,000 to $950,000). See the full guide above for all 3 neighborhoods.
Is Old Tappan safe?
Old Tappan is one of the safest communities in Bergen County.
How walkable is Old Tappan, NJ?
Walk Score of 15, rated "Car-Dependent." Median income $165,000, median age 46.2. 6% renter-occupied.
Ready to Find Your Home in Old Tappan?
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