Hackensack NJ

Hackensack, New Jersey – Nestled along the banks of the Hackensack River, this lively city combines small-town charm with all the perks of urban living. From bustling downtown streets lined with diverse restaurants and shops to peaceful parks and a historic skyline, Hackensack offers a unique blend of history, culture, and community. Whether you’re discovering local art, shopping at the farmers market, or just enjoying a stroll by the river, Hackensack welcomes you with open arms and plenty of hidden gems to explore.

• Population: ~46,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; warm summers (70–85°F), crisp autumns, cold winters (20–40°F), and blossoming springs.
• Places To Visit: Hackensack River County Park, The Shops at Riverside, Bergen County Courthouse, Johnson Public Library, New Jersey Naval Museum.
• Top Activities: Exploring Main Street’s dining scene, attending community fairs, kayaking on the river, catching a live show at local theaters, visiting farmers markets.
• Famous Food: Classic New Jersey diners, thin-crust pizza at Lido Restaurant, fresh bagels from local bakeries, and Korean BBQ along Route 4.

Hackensack, NJ, is a thriving city known for its proximity to New York City and its diverse economy. With strong sectors in healthcare, legal services, retail, and education, job seekers can find a wide range of opportunities. Below are some of the top careers in Hackensack right now.

Top 5 Jobs in Hackensack, NJ

From top hospitals to busy law firms and vibrant schools, Hackensack offers rewarding jobs for a variety of professionals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, this city provides excellent opportunities in some of the region’s most stable industries.

Hackensack, NJ may be just across the river from NYC, but it’s got its own vibe and plenty of cool spots where students can unwind, hang out with friends, or just try something new. Whether you love good food, nature, or fun activities, there’s more to do here than you might expect.

Johnson Public Library – Think libraries are just for studying? Not here! Besides a solid collection, the Johnson Public Library hosts cool events, creative workshops, and even movie nights. Grab a comfy chair, free WiFi, and chill for a while between classes.

Downtown Hackensack (Main Street) – The heart of Hackensack is getting trendier every year. You’ll find coffee shops, bubble tea spots like Kung Fu Tea, and fun eateries. Try a slice at Lido Restaurant or some tacos at El Norteño Authentic Mexican. Perfect for casual weekend hangs or after-school cravings.

Bergen County Riverside County Park – Sometimes you just need some fresh air and a break from digital screens. Riverside Park runs along the Hackensack River and features walking trails, picnic spots, sports fields, and even open spaces for frisbee or studying outside on a sunny day.

Bogota Golf Center – Not just for golfers! This place has a driving range, mini-golf, and batting cages. It’s affordable, low-key, and fun—ideal for group outings or just goofing off with friends after classes.

Ice House – One of the largest rinks in the country, the Ice House is a classic local hangout. You don’t have to be a pro skater to have a good time on public skating sessions, and skate rentals are cheap. It’s a great spot to laugh, fall, and make memories—especially during winter.

Shakespeare on the Green (Carver Park) – Every summer, Carver Park throws open-air theater events—like Shakespeare on the Green—for free. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a show under the stars. It’s low-key, artsy fun that’s way more enjoyable than you might think.

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park – If you’re feeling energetic, check out Urban Air. From trampolines to obstacle courses and VR games, this is the place to goof off, burn some calories, and laugh out loud. Great for birthday parties or just blowing off steam after exams.

Bella Pizza or White Manna Hamburgers – Sometimes, the best place to relax is over simple, delicious food. Bella is a known stop for classic Jersey pizza slices, while White Manna has legendary burgers worth waiting in line for. Both are affordable and always casual.

Hackensack might not have palm trees or movie stars, but it has its own laid-back energy with plenty of places where students can recharge, explore, and enjoy time together. The best part? Most of these spots are right in your neighborhood—easy to visit when you need a break from school or just want to make new memories with friends.

Hackensack, NJ is a vibrant and diverse city just minutes from New York City. It offers a rich mix of higher education options, including outstanding public and private colleges and universities. Whether you’re pursuing healthcare, business, technology, or the arts, Hackensack is an excellent place to launch your academic journey.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Hackensack, NJ

Bergen Community College – As one of the largest community colleges in New Jersey, Bergen Community College’s Hackensack campus offers associate degrees and certificate programs in fields like nursing, business, and tech. It’s known for affordable tuition and strong transfer opportunities to four-year institutions.

Ramapo College (nearby) – Located just a short drive away, Ramapo College is a respected public liberal arts college recognized for its small class sizes and strong business, nursing, and environmental studies programs. Some collaborative programs and transfer opportunities are available to Hackensack students.

William Paterson University (nearby) – A top public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, especially strong in education, business, and the performing arts. The university partners with community colleges and provides transfer pathways for Hackensack residents.

Passaic County Community College (Passaic Campus) – With a location near Hackensack, PCCC’s Passaic Campus specializes in healthcare and technical programs. Its proximity makes it a good option for residents looking to begin or advance their careers quickly and affordably.

New Jersey City University at Bergen – This satellite campus is located in nearby Lyndhurst, offering bachelor’s degree completion programs in business, criminal justice, and nursing for students from Hackensack and the region.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Hackensack, NJ

Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) – Metropolitan Campus – Straddling Hackensack and Teaneck, FDU’s Metropolitan Campus is known for its diverse student body, international focus, and standout programs in business, health sciences, and hospitality management.

Eastwick College – Hackensack – A career-focused institution offering hands-on training in nursing, allied health, business, and technology. Eastwick is a popular choice for those looking for practical, job-ready education in the heart of Hackensack.

Holy Name Medical Center School of Nursing – This highly regarded private nursing school is just minutes from Hackensack, providing diploma and associate degree nursing programs with a strong clinical focus and high exam pass rates.

Caldwell University (nearby) – A well-respected private Catholic university with robust arts, psychology, education, and health sciences programs. It offers transfer pathways and adult learner options for Hackensack students.

Felician University (nearby) – With campuses in nearby Lodi and Rutherford, Felician specializes in nursing, business, education, and the liberal arts. Its small class sizes and supportive environment make it a great fit for Hackensack-area students.

Choosing the right college can open doors and shape your future. Hackensack’s array of public and private institutions ensures that whether you’re seeking a traditional four-year degree, career training, or a flexible pathway, there’s a program here ready to help you succeed.

Hackensack, NJ, is home to a diverse mix of high schools, both public and private, where students can find challenging academics and a supportive environment. Families moving to this area or locals looking for the best educational options will be pleased with the quality and dedication of these schools. Here are the top picks for high schools in the Hackensack area.

Top Public High Schools in Hackensack, NJ

• Hackensack High School – Known for its strong academic programs and a wide array of extracurriculars, this school prepares students for success in college and beyond. With Advanced Placement courses and challenging STEM opportunities, it's a great option for many local families.
• Bergen County Academies (BCA), Hackensack – This selective magnet school consistently ranks among the top in New Jersey and the nation. It offers specialized academies focusing on sciences, engineering, business, and more. Admission is competitive, but the rewards are outstanding.
• Bergen County Technical High School - Teterboro Campus – Not far from Hackensack, this vocational-technical school provides hands-on experience in fields like engineering, allied health, and digital media, ensuring students graduate career- and college-ready.
• Teaneck High School – Just next door, Teaneck High offers a rigorous curriculum, strong arts programs, and a diverse student body, making it a great neighboring choice.
• Paramus High School – Renowned for academic excellence and strong athletic programs, Paramus High has a supportive environment that encourages both personal and academic growth.

Top Private High Schools in Hackensack, NJ

• Bergen Catholic High School – An all-boys, college-preparatory school with a strong tradition of academic achievement, athletics, and faith-based learning. Students benefit from small classes and a dedicated faculty.
• Immaculate Conception High School – This all-girls Catholic school fosters leadership, academic growth, and a sense of community. With a focus on college readiness, it supports each girl's goals and ambitions.
• St. Mary High School – Located in nearby Rutherford, this coeducational Catholic institution balances academics, athletics, and character building, preparing students for college and life.
• The Frisch School – A Modern Orthodox Jewish high school not far from Hackensack, Frisch combines a rigorous college-prep curriculum with outstanding Judaic studies and a wide range of extracurricular options.
• Yeshivat Noam – While primarily recognized for its elementary and middle school, its reputation for academic excellence helps prepare students for top private and public high schools in the area.

Each of these schools stands out for its dedication to student growth and achievement. Whether you are searching for strong academics, faith-based values, or specialized programs, Hackensack, NJ, offers high school options to fit a variety of needs and aspirations. No matter which path you choose, you’re giving your student the foundation for lifelong success.

Hackensack, NJ, is a dynamic city located in Bergen County, New Jersey, just minutes away from New York City. While Hackensack itself doesn’t host any top-tier professional sports teams, its location places it in the heart of one of the most vibrant sports regions in the country. Fans in Hackensack proudly support nearby teams across all major professional leagues, and the city’s proximity makes it easy to catch a game or feel a part of the action.

Football – New York Giants & New York Jets (NFL)

• New York Giants – The Giants are one of the NFL’s oldest and most storied franchises, with four Super Bowl titles (1986, 1990, 2007, 2011). Although they carry the “New York” name, both the Giants and their stadium, MetLife Stadium, are located right next door in East Rutherford, NJ—mere minutes from Hackensack, making them the true local team for Hackensack football fans.
• New York Jets – Sharing MetLife Stadium with the Giants, the Jets have a passionate following. They captured their only Super Bowl victory in 1968 (Super Bowl III), made legendary by quarterback Joe Namath. Their home games are a staple for Hackensack residents who bleed green and white.

Baseball – New York Yankees & New York Mets (MLB)

• New York Yankees – Based in the Bronx, NY, just a quick drive or train ride from Hackensack, the Yankees are baseball royalty with 27 World Series championships: the most in MLB history. Legends such as Babe Ruth, Derek Jeter, and Aaron Judge have all worn the iconic pinstripes.
• New York Mets – The Mets play at Citi Field in Queens and have two World Series titles (1969, 1986). The team is beloved for its underdog spirit and dedicated fans, many of whom hail from New Jersey.

Basketball – Brooklyn Nets & New York Knicks (NBA)

• Brooklyn Nets – Formerly the New Jersey Nets (before 2012), the Nets played at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, making them a cherished part of Bergen County sports history. Now based at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, they remain popular among Hackensack locals. The team has made several playoff runs with stars like Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Ben Simmons.
• New York Knicks – Playing at Madison Square Garden in Manhattan, the Knicks are among the NBA’s most recognized franchises. While championships have eluded them since the 1970s, their rich history and iconic players, such as Walt Frazier, Patrick Ewing, and Julius Randle, keep fans excited each season.

Hockey – New Jersey Devils, New York Rangers & New York Islanders (NHL)

• New Jersey Devils – The Devils bring the Stanley Cup excitement right to New Jersey, playing in Newark. With three championships (1995, 2000, 2003), legendary goalie Martin Brodeur and relentless defense have made them a favorite of Hackensack hockey lovers.
• New York Rangers – One of the league’s oldest teams, the Rangers play at Madison Square Garden. Their exciting play and loyal following have been highlighted by legendary runs, including their 1994 Stanley Cup championship.
• New York Islanders – Based on Long Island, the Islanders dominated the early ’80s with four consecutive Stanley Cup titles (1980–1983). Their passionate fanbase and rich local rivalries are well-known throughout the region.

Soccer – New York Red Bulls & New York City FC (MLS)

• New York Red Bulls – Playing in Harrison, NJ—just a short ride from Hackensack—the Red Bulls are New Jersey’s own Major League Soccer team. With multiple conference titles, they feature stars like Bradley Wright-Phillips and Thierry Henry in their history.
• New York City FC (NYCFC) – NYCFC, playing at Yankee Stadium and now Citi Field, won their first MLS Cup in 2021. The club quickly built a strong following, offering more great soccer within easy reach of Hackensack residents.

While Hackensack may not have a pro team calling it home, its residents are part of a region where world-class sports are woven into everyday life. Whether you love the roar of a football crowd, the crack of the bat, the thrill of a soccer goal, or the intensity on the ice or basketball court, Hackensack puts you right at the center of it all!

Hackensack, New Jersey, may be small in size, but it’s bursting with history, culture, and plenty of quirky surprises. Whether you’re a local or just stopping by, here are ten fun facts about this awesome city:

1. Home to One of America's Oldest Courthouses – The Bergen County Court House in Hackensack has stood since 1912, and its stunning architecture makes it a local landmark.
2. George Washington Slept Here – Yes, really! Washington once stayed at the Steuben House during the Revolutionary War, and it’s still open to visitors today.
3. A Musical Legacy – Hackensack is where famed jazz producer Rudy Van Gelder recorded legends like John Coltrane and Miles Davis in his iconic home studio.
4. Unique Skyline Views – Thanks to its location along the Hackensack River, the city boasts some of the most underrated views of the NYC skyline in all of North Jersey.
5. Birthplace of the Drive-In Theater! – The first-ever drive-in movie theater in New Jersey popped up in Hackensack in the 1930s, letting cars and cinema go hand-in-hand.
6. A Melting Pot of Food – Hackensack’s Main Street is a foodie paradise, serving everything from classic Italian pizza to authentic Korean barbecue.
7. Big on Books – The Johnson Free Public Library in Hackensack opened way back in 1901 and still serves as a vibrant community hub.
8. Setting for a Marvel Universe – Spider-Man fans might recognize Hackensack; it’s mentioned as a hiding spot for the Tesseract in the first Avengers film!
9. Home to a Medical Giant – Hackensack University Medical Center is one of the largest and most respected hospitals in the region, making the city a healthcare powerhouse.
10. Perfect Place for a River Walk – The scenic Foschini Park hugs the Hackensack River, offering boating, birdwatching, and perfect picnic spots right in the heart of the city.