Where North Jersey Home Buyers Are Moving in 2025 and Why It Matters

Buyers Are on the Move in North Jersey

If you’ve been asking, “Where are home buyers moving in North Jersey in 2025?”, you're not alone. Whether you’re thinking of upsizing, downsizing, or selling a home you’ve inherited, this question matters—because migration shapes market momentum.

In my daily work, I’m seeing clear buyer movement patterns across Passaic and Bergen Counties, especially with:

First-time buyers leaving NYC

Families moving from multi-families to single-family homes

Seniors downsizing or transitioning after probate

This blog breaks down where buyers are going, why they’re choosing these towns, and what it means for sellers.

📌 Curious what your home is worth right now? Start here →

🏘️ Top Towns Buyers Are Flocking To in 2025

Here’s where the action is based on buyer activity, affordability, and access to schools, shopping, and transportation:

📍 Clifton

Why they’re moving here:

• Central location
• Easy NYC commute
• A variety of housing types

          Buyers love: Updated capes, split-levels, and homes with driveways and finished basements.

📍 Totowa & Woodland Park

Why they’re moving here:

• Quiet suburban vibe with good school systems
• Access to Route 46, 80, and 23
• Homes with more land
  
  Buyers love: Ranch-style homes and upgraded bi-levels.

📍 Hackensack

Why they’re moving here:

• Close to hospitals, downtown upgrades
• Walkable areas near train stations
• Affordable multi-family options
  
  Buyers love: New townhome developments and 2-family investments.

📍 Garfield

Why they’re moving here:

• Strong rental demand for future investors
• Lots of new development
• Diversity and family-oriented neighborhoods
  
  Buyers love: Brick 2-family homes and new construction.

📌 Check out my featured listings in these areas →

📈 What’s Driving Buyer Migration in 2025?

Based on trends and the conversations I’m having with buyers, here’s what’s pushing them to move:

💰 1. Affordability Shift

With NYC still expensive and interest rates adjusting, buyers are looking for more value per square foot. North Jersey delivers that.

🏫 2. Schools and Stability

Many families are relocating to towns with better public schools, quiet blocks, and a community feel. Education is driving demand.

🛠️ 3. Probate & Inheritance Transitions

Several families I’ve worked with are moving due to inherited homes. Some upgrade, others sell and relocate to nearby towns.

📌 Read how I help with probate real estate →

🏘️ 4. New Construction & Local Growth

New builds in Paterson, Hackensack, and Clifton are attracting buyers who want modern layouts and fewer repairs.

📌 Learn about where new development is happening →

🙋‍♂️ FAQs: Where Are Home Buyers Moving in North Jersey in 2025?

Q: Why are so many buyers leaving NYC for North Jersey?

A: Value, space, and flexibility. Many buyers can get a yard, basement, and garage just 30 minutes from the city.

Q: Are people still buying despite high interest rates?

A: Yes. Rates are lower than in 2023, and buyers have adjusted expectations. Many plan to refinance later.

Q: What are the hottest zip codes in North Jersey right now?

A: 07013 (Clifton), 07512 (Totowa), 07026 (Garfield), 07601 (Hackensack), and 07424 (Woodland Park) are all getting strong buyer traffic.

Q: What makes you the right person to help me move or sell?

A: I’m North Jersey’s First AI-Certified Realtor, Probate Specialist, and Short Sale Certified. I know the numbers, the neighborhoods, and how to help you move with clarity.

📌 Check out real client stories →

✅ Moving Forward: Should You Buy, Sell, or Stay?

If you’re wondering whether now is the time to make a move, here’s the truth:

👉 Buyers still have leverage in certain towns.
👉 Sellers can benefit from low inventory and targeted buyer demand.
👉 Families with inherited homes have options that can turn a stressful situation into a fresh start.

📌 Want to map out your next move? Let’s build your custom plan →
📌 Ready to connect? Book a chat here →