Fort Lee

Skyline views, global flavors, and an easy city connection.
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Welcome to Fort Lee


Set along the Hudson River on the eastern edge of Bergen County, Fort Lee is a town that balances an urban-suburban rhythm with a distinctly neighborly feel. Perched atop the Palisades and shaped by its riverfront setting, it offers dramatic overlooks toward Manhattan and the George Washington Bridge—an everyday backdrop that makes the town feel closely linked to New York City.

Often described as a “sixth borough” because of its immediate proximity to the city, Fort Lee is bisected by the western approach to the George Washington Bridge, placing Manhattan minutes away. At the same time, the community supports a walkable, lived-in pace with residential streets, local parks, and a dining scene that reflects the town’s diversity.

What to Love

  • Big-city access with a true town atmosphere, just over the bridge
  • Hudson River and Manhattan skyline views from the Palisades
  • A diverse community and food culture with global reach
  • A growing mix of modern retail and restaurants, including Hudson Lights
  • Historic roots that remain visible in parks and cultural programming


Local Lifestyle


Life in Fort Lee tends to center on convenience, community, and walkability. Residents can enjoy a day-to-day routine that’s close to neighborhood essentials while still feeling connected to Manhattan through the George Washington Bridge. The town’s cultural mix is reflected in local businesses and dining, and its cliff-top geography naturally draws people outdoors for scenic strolls and weekend resets.


Dining and Shopping


Fort Lee’s dining scene is widely considered one of its standout features, with a strong range of international options that mirrors the community itself. The town’s Korean presence, in particular, adds depth to the local food landscape—contributing everything from casual comfort spots to destination-worthy restaurants.

For a night out, Ventanas Restaurant & Lounge brings a fusion-driven menu—modern American with Asian and Latin influences—creating a lively setting that feels special-occasion ready.

In and around Hudson Lights, City Perch Kitchen + Bar offers New American comfort food and craft cocktails in an approachable, polished atmosphere.

Shopping is equally convenient, with Shops at Hudson Lights providing an easy hub for browsing and errands, and local favorites like Paris Baguette offering a go-to stop for pastries, breads, and coffee.


Things to Do and Entertainment


Fort Lee’s setting makes outdoor time feel effortless. Fort Lee Historic Park pairs scenic overlooks of the Hudson, Manhattan, and the George Washington Bridge with Revolutionary War-era reconstructions and a visitor center that brings local history to life. Nearby, Ross Dock Picnic Area sits just north of the bridge along the river, with picnic facilities and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere.

For arts and community events, Fort Lee Music Hall offers rehearsal, recording, and performance space, supporting a steady pulse of local music activity. Seasonally, Saint Rocco’s Italian Feast is a longstanding Fort Lee tradition that draws visitors for food, entertainment, and a classic festival feel.


Schools


Fort Lee is served by Fort Lee Public Schools, a community district educating students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Public options include Fort Lee High School and Lewis F. Cole Intermediate School, along with elementary schools.

Families exploring additional pathways can also find private education locally, including Christ the Teacher Academy in Fort Lee.

Overview for Fort Lee, NJ

39,818 people live in Fort Lee, where the median age is 47.2 and the average individual income is $65,753. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

39,818

Total Population

47.2 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$65,753

Average individual Income

Around Fort Lee, NJ

There's plenty to do around Fort Lee, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

98
Walker's Paradise
Walking Score
59
Bikeable
Bike Score
59
Good Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Beauty Life Hair Color Studio, and Laura Mitchell.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Beauty 4.6 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Beauty 1.63 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Fort Lee, NJ

Fort Lee has 18,531 households, with an average household size of 2.15. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Fort Lee do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 39,818 people call Fort Lee home. The population density is 15,815.58 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

39,818

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

47.2

Median Age

48.38 / 51.62%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
18,531

Total Households

2.15

Average Household Size

$65,753

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Fort Lee, NJ

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Fort Lee. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
Fort Lee

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At Proper Estates, our team of licensed and experienced real estate professionals proudly serves the Bergen County, NJ metro area. We’re known for delivering fast, reliable results and maintaining open, direct communication every step of the way. Ready to get started? Contact us today to see how we can help.

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