A newly released town-by-town breakdown from NJ.com confirms what many homeowners already suspected: property taxes across New Jersey have reached another record high in 2026.
In Bergen County, the increases are not abstract. They are showing up in real dollar amounts on real tax bills.
For some households, this is manageable. For others, it is becoming a structural financial strain.
Let’s look at what is actually happening and what it means.
Bergen County Remains Among the Most Expensive in New Jersey
Bergen County has consistently ranked near the top statewide for average property tax bills.
In many municipalities, average annual taxes now fall between $14,000 and $18,000, with higher totals in larger homes or recently reassessed properties.
That translates to more than $1,200 per month in taxes alone for many homeowners, before accounting for:
• Mortgage
• Insurance
• Utilities
• Maintenance
For homeowners who purchased decades ago and paid off their mortgage, property taxes now function as a permanent housing payment.
Why Taxes Continue to Rise
New Jersey’s municipal funding structure relies heavily on property taxes.
In suburban counties like Bergen, residential homes carry a large share of the tax burden because:
• School funding remains significant
• Infrastructure costs are ongoing
• Pension obligations persist
• Municipal services are labor-intensive
When property values rise, assessments follow. When budgets increase, tax levies increase.
The system does not naturally trend downward.
Which Bergen County Towns Saw the Largest Property Tax Increases?
According to the most recent town-by-town data, several Bergen County municipalities experienced notable year-over-year increases between 2024 and 2025.
The five largest percentage increases were:
• Paramus – 8.02%
• Lyndhurst – 8.01%
• Maywood – 7.70%
• Carlstadt – 7.15%
• Old Tappan – 7.05%
These increases vary based on reassessment cycles, municipal budgets, and changes in property values, but the trend is consistent across much of the county: upward pressure remains.
If you live in one of these towns, reviewing your latest tax bill closely may be worthwhile.
The Five-Year Pressure Point
Over the last five years:
• Home values in North Jersey increased sharply
• Pandemic-era demand pushed pricing higher
• Inflation affected municipal operating costs
While appreciation benefits homeowners on paper, higher values often translate into higher assessments.
This creates a paradox:
You may be wealthier in equity but more strained in monthly carrying costs.
Who Is Most Affected?
Retirees and Empty Nesters
Many longtime homeowners purchased in the 1980s or 1990s at far lower price points. Their equity is strong, but their income may be fixed.
A $15,000 to $18,000 annual tax bill can significantly impact retirement planning.
The question becomes long term sustainability.
Tired Landlords
For rental property owners in towns such as Hackensack, Englewood, Garfield, and Fair Lawn, rising property taxes compress margins.
Higher carrying costs are not always easily passed on to tenants.
Some investors are reassessing whether continued ownership aligns with their financial goals.
Mid-Career Families
Families balancing high mortgage payments, childcare costs, and inflation are also feeling the impact.
Even strong household incomes can feel tight when property taxes consume a significant portion of monthly cash flow.
The Equity Counterbalance
It is important to note that Bergen County real estate remains in demand.
Limited inventory and proximity to New York City continue to support property values.
For many homeowners, this means:
• Substantial appreciation
• Strong resale potential
• Liquidity that did not exist years ago
High taxes and high equity now exist simultaneously.
That combination creates options.
Is Selling the Right Move?
Rising property taxes alone should not dictate a decision.
However, they should prompt evaluation.
Homeowners benefit from understanding:
• Current market value
• Realistic net proceeds after costs
• Downsizing scenarios
• Long-term carrying cost comparisons
Clarity replaces frustration.
A Practical Approach for Bergen County Homeowners
Before reacting emotionally to another record tax bill, take a structured approach:
- Confirm your current assessed value
- Compare your tax bill to neighboring towns
- Understand your home’s realistic market value
- Evaluate five-year cost projections
Some homeowners conclude staying makes sense.
Others discover that unlocking equity now better supports retirement or lifestyle goals.
Both outcomes are valid. The key is informed decision-making.
Final Thoughts
Record-high property taxes are not new in Bergen County.
What may be new is how they intersect with:
• Inflation
• Higher mortgage rates
• Retirement timelines
• Changing lifestyle priorities
For some homeowners, this is simply another increase.
For others, it is a turning point.
If you are unsure where you stand, the most useful starting point is a clear understanding of your property’s current value in today’s market.
From there, you can decide strategically rather than reactively.
