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Englewood, NJ

Englewood is a city in Bergen County, New Jersey, just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, offering a suburban retreat with deep historical roots and convenient urban access.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The full and official name of the city is Englewood. It is a city located in Bergen County, in the state of New Jersey, which is part of the United States. Bergen County is the most populous county in New Jersey, known for its proximity to New York City and its diverse, well-established suburban communities . Englewood was incorporated as a city on March 17, 1899 .

Historical Names and Nicknames

Before its incorporation, the area was widely known as the "English Neighborhood" . This name dates back to the late 17th century, as it became the first predominantly English-speaking settlement on the New Jersey side of the Hudson River after the English took control from the Dutch in 1664 . During the Revolutionary War, the area around a key intersection was also called "Liberty Pole," named after a tavern and its symbolic liberty pole where patriots gathered . The name "Englewood" itself is believed to be derived either from the local Engle family or as a variation of "English Neighborhood" .

Date of Foundation and Age

The area was first settled by Europeans in the 17th century, but the modern history of Englewood began on August 15, 1859, when a New York lawyer named J. Wyman Jones registered a planned community he called "Englewood," carving it out of several farms . The city was officially incorporated in 1899. As of 2026, the city is 127 years old.

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Englewood is situated in northeastern New Jersey at coordinates 40.8917° N, 73.9736° W . It lies just west of the Hudson River, directly across from the Bronx borough of New York City . The city is located on the western slope of the New Jersey Palisades, a line of steep cliffs along the river, with its terrain descending from a height of about 125 meters (410 feet) on the palisades to near sea level in the Hackensack River valley . The elevation of the city center is approximately 13 meters (43 feet) above sea level .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Englewood is primarily a residential suburb and a regional commercial hub . Its economy is driven by retail trade, healthcare (with the Englewood Hospital being a major employer), and professional services. It also has a history of light manufacturing, including leather goods, pharmaceuticals, and food products . Many residents commute to jobs in New York City, just 10 miles away.

Population and Demographics

According to the 2020 United States Census, the population of Englewood is 29,308 . This makes it the 6th most populous municipality in Bergen County . It is a medium-sized city and is characterized by its remarkable diversity. In the 2010 census, the population was 45% White, 33% Black or African American, 8% Asian, and 27% Hispanic or Latino (of any race), reflecting its role as a "melting pot" within the New York metropolitan area .

City's "Business Card" (Briefly)

Englewood is a leafy, historic suburban city perched on the New Jersey Palisades, just a few miles from the George Washington Bridge. It offers a quiet residential atmosphere with a rich history dating back to the Revolutionary War, a diverse community, and convenient access to the excitement of New York City, just across the Hudson River.

Geography

Mountains and Ranges

While there are no mountains within the city limits, the western slope of the New Jersey Palisades runs through Englewood . The Palisades are a line of steep, dramatic cliffs rising along the western bank of the Hudson River. They are a prominent geological feature formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and are now preserved as a state and national park, offering scenic overlooks and hiking trails .

Water Bodies

Englewood is located near several significant water bodies. To the east is the Hudson River, which serves as the border between New Jersey and New York . To the west lies the Hackensack River . Overpeck Creek, a tributary of the Hackensack, forms part of the city's southern border and was historically important for transportation . There are no public recreational beaches on these waterways within Englewood.

National and Nature Parks

The Flat Rock Brook Nature Center is a 150-acre (0.6 km²) preserve and education center located on the western slope of the Palisades within Englewood . It features over three miles of trails through forests, meadows, and wetlands, offering a peaceful natural retreat for residents and visitors.

Islands and Archipelagos

There are no islands within the city of Englewood.

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Englewood has a humid subtropical climate, typical of the New York metropolitan area. This climate is characterized by cold, damp winters and hot, humid summers. The city experiences four distinct seasons with a fairly even distribution of precipitation throughout the year .

Average Temperatures by Month

The table below shows the average daily maximum and minimum temperatures in Englewood throughout the year .

Month Avg. Max Temp (°C / °F) Avg. Min Temp (°C / °F)
January 2 / 36 -6 / 21
February 3 / 37 -5 / 23
March 8 / 46 -1 / 30
April 14 / 57 4 / 39
May 21 / 70 11 / 52
June 26 / 79 16 / 61
July 30 / 86 19 / 66
August 28 / 82 18 / 64
September 26 / 79 15 / 59
October 19 / 66 9 / 48
November 11 / 52 2 / 36
December 6 / 43 -1 / 30

Precipitation and Humidity

The average annual precipitation in Englewood is high, at approximately 1,460 mm (57.5 inches) . Precipitation is abundant year-round, with the highest amounts typically in October and December (around 142 mm each) and the lowest in September (around 95 mm) . Rainfall accounts for about 90% of this precipitation, with snowfall making up the remaining 10%, mostly from December through March .

Sunny Days and UV Index

While specific sunshine hours are not detailed, the region enjoys a mix of sunny and cloudy days throughout the year. The UV index in the summer months can reach high levels, making sun protection advisable during outdoor activities.

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Specific Weather Phenomena

Occasional nor'easters can impact the area during the fall and winter, bringing heavy rain, snow, and high winds. Winter snowstorms can sometimes accumulate significant snowfall.

Landmarks

[Architectural Landmark: St. Paul's Episcopal Church]

St. Paul's Episcopal Church, located at 113 Engle Street, is a stunning example of Late English Gothic architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places . The main church building was constructed in 1899-1900 and designed by Thornton Floyd Turner. It is renowned for its collection of stained glass windows made by the famous studios of Louis Comfort Tiffany and John La Farge, as well as a painting of the Last Supper by Clara Miller Burd, an artist connected to the Tiffany Studios . The church also features a parish house designed by Aymar Embury II in the Tudor Revival style (1916) and a significant music program with a large Austin Organ .

[Historic House: The Demott–Westervelt House]

Located at 285 Grand Avenue, the Demott–Westervelt House is one of several historic 18th-century homes in Englewood that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places . These surviving farmhouses, including the Thomas Demarest House and the Garret Lydecker House, offer a tangible link to the area's early Dutch and Huguenot settlers and its agricultural past as part of the "English Neighborhood" .

[Monument-Symbol: Dwight-Englewood Bulldog]

The Dwight-Englewood Bulldog is a unique and beloved local monument situated on the campus of the Dwight-Englewood School . This sculpture of the school's mascot is a landmark for the local community and a point of pride for students and alumni. It represents the long history of private education in the city, which dates back to the 19th century .

Parks and Decorative Sculpture

The Flat Rock Brook Nature Center serves as the city's premier natural landmark, offering a living museum of the region's native flora and fauna . While not home to formal decorative sculpture gardens, the preserve itself is a sculpted landscape of glacial erratics, rock formations, and diverse ecosystems that are a key part of the city's character.

Monuments That Became Urban Legends

The Liberty Pole is a significant historical symbol for Englewood, though the original pole and tavern are long gone. A monument or historical marker at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Tenafly Road likely commemorates the site of the Liberty Pole Tavern, a key meeting place for Patriots during the American Revolution . It was at this very spot that General Washington and his army narrowly escaped the British in 1776, making it a place of local legend and historical importance .

Transport

Main Airports of the City and Region

Englewood does not have a commercial airport of its own but is strategically located near several major airports serving the New York metropolitan area .

Main Railway Stations and Depots

There are no train stations directly within Englewood. The city is primarily served by New Jersey Transit bus lines that connect to train stations in neighboring communities, such as the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail or the train lines in Hoboken and Secaucus, which provide access to New York Penn Station.

Public Transport System

Englewood is well-served by an extensive network of NJ Transit buses. These bus routes provide crucial connections to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan, as well as to other cities in Bergen County and the region. This bus network is the primary form of public transportation for residents commuting to and from New York City.

Main Highways and Roads

Several major roadways provide access to and from Englewood. Interstate 95 (I-95) is a key artery, with the George Washington Bridge just a few miles south, connecting New Jersey to Manhattan. Other important routes include U.S. Route 9W (which runs through the city), County Route 501 (maintained by the state), and County Route 505. These highways connect Englewood to the broader highway system of the Northeast Corridor.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Englewood boasts a diverse and dynamic food scene that reflects its multicultural community, offering everything from long-standing local favorites to innovative fusion concepts.

The Kitchen's Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Hong Kong Waffles

One of Englewood's most celebrated culinary destinations is The Kitchen, helmed by chef Wade New. The restaurant is renowned for its creative take on American classics, with a standout dish being its buttermilk fried chicken. The chicken is marinated in spiced buttermilk for a minimum of 24 hours, then dredged in flour and shallow-fried in a cast-iron skillet to achieve a perfect crust. What makes this dish unique is its accompaniment: instead of traditional waffles, Chef New serves it with Hong Kong-style egg waffles, drizzled with honey, offering a delightful twist on a classic Southern combination . The menu is seasonal, and their truffled chicken potpie is a much-anticipated item that returns in the autumn .

A World of Flavors: From Colombian to Kosher Asian

The culinary landscape of Englewood is rich with international options. For authentic Latin American cuisine, Noches de Colombia is a beloved spot for traditional Colombian dishes . Fans of Spanish fare can enjoy a variety of small plates at Tapas de España . The town also has a strong presence of Kosher and Mediterranean dining. Hummus Elite is a go-to for fresh falafel and hearty hummus bowls, while Chopstix offers a unique Kosher Asian fusion menu . For a more upscale Mediterranean experience, La Mezza provides elegant mezze plates and lush décor .

Sushi, Asian Fusion, and Global Bites

Englewood's dining scene also caters to lovers of Asian cuisine. Akai Lounge is a popular spot for creative sushi rolls in a trendy setting, and it's conveniently located near the Bergen Performing Arts Center . Another modern option is Taní, which serves contemporary Asian fusion . For those seeking Mexican flavors, Taqueria Los Gueros offers authentic street-food style tacos, burritos, and tortas . A truly unique fusion concept can be found at Blue Akai, a restaurant that blends Mexican and Japanese culinary traditions into one menu . For classic Chinese takeout, locals often turn to Far East Kitchen, known for its reliable lunch combinations, pork dumplings, and hot and sour soup .

Sweet Treats and Bakeries

No culinary tour is complete without dessert. Englewood is home to Balthazar Bakery, famed for its artisanal breads and French-style pastries . For high-end European desserts, Patisserie Florentine is a charming spot, while Dulce de Leche Bakery offers Latin-style sweets like alfajores and tres leches cake .

Museums

The Museum of Outdoor Arts (MOA)

While the primary location of the Museum of Outdoor Arts is in Englewood, Colorado, it is a significant attraction that bears the Englewood name. The museum is headquartered at the Englewood Civic Center, where it maintains a large outdoor sculpture collection and indoor galleries with rotating exhibitions . A major part of its collection is displayed at Marjorie Park, on the north side of the Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre. This outdoor space features a variety of bronze sculptures, including a popular and whimsical Alice in Wonderland series, set within a landscaped park with paved walking paths . The museum has also hosted immersive and experiential exhibits like "Natura Obscura," which has drawn comparisons to the renowned Meow Wolf . Visitors are advised to check in advance for indoor gallery hours, as they can vary with exhibition changes .

Other Nearby Artistic Venues

For those interested in a more eclectic, hands-on experience, the Old Florida Outdoor Center and Gallery in nearby Englewood, Florida, offers a different kind of artistic outing. This venue features driftwood art sculptures, metal art, antiques, and old collectibles, and also offers weekly art classes .

Sports and Sporting Legends

While Englewood, NJ, does not have major professional sports teams of its own, its prime location in Bergen County places it within easy reach of the vast sports offerings of the New York metropolitan area. Residents and visitors are just a short drive or train ride away from world-famous venues and teams.

Nearby Major Sports Venues

Just a few miles away in East Rutherford, the Meadowlands Sports Complex is home to two of the NFL's most prominent teams. MetLife Stadium, with a capacity of 82,500, hosts the New York Giants and the New York Jets . The stadium has also been the site of major global events, including WrestleMania and Super Bowl XLVIII . Adjacent to it is the Meadowlands Racetrack, a premier harness racing venue.

A short distance to the east, in Newark, is the Prudential Center. Known as "The Rock," this arena is the home of the NHL's New Jersey Devils and also hosts major college basketball, concerts, and events . For college sports, the Jersey Mike's Arena on the campus of Rutgers University in New Brunswick is the home of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights competing in the Big Ten Conference .

Sporting Events and Culture

The region is also home to world-renowned sporting events. Just across the Hudson River, the US Open (Tennis) is held annually in Flushing Meadows, Corona Park, drawing the biggest names in the sport . The New York City Marathon, one of the largest marathons in the world, finishes in Central Park each November .

Universities and Educational Institutions

Dwight-Englewood School

Englewood is home to the Dwight-Englewood School, a prestigious private college-preparatory day school. Located at 315 E. Palisade Avenue, the school is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to enroll F-1 and M-1 international students, highlighting its global reputation and commitment to a diverse student body .

Nearby Higher Education

While Englewood itself does not host a university campus, it is surrounded by numerous renowned institutions of higher learning within a short distance. This makes the town a convenient residential option for students, faculty, and staff. Notable nearby universities include:

Healthcare Facilities

Englewood Health

The cornerstone of medical care in the city is Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, part of the larger Englewood Health system. Located at 350 Engle Street, this facility is a major healthcare provider in northern New Jersey . It is a full-service hospital with a wide range of specialties, with a particularly strong reputation in cardiovascular services.

The hospital's Heart and Vascular Services are comprehensive, including a Cardiac Catheterization Lab, Electrophysiology, Cardiac Surgery, and a dedicated Cardiac Intermediate Care Unit . The hospital also features a Bloodless Medicine and Surgery program, a sign of its innovative approach to patient care . Englewood Health is an academic medical center with a medical staff of nearly 400 practicing physicians across more than 80 specialties, ensuring a high level of expertise for its patients . The system also extends into the community with numerous physician practices, urgent care centers, and imaging facilities in Bergen and Hudson counties .

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