Looking for a quiet, lake-studded suburb close to NYC without giving up space, privacy, and nature? If you want larger lots, a calm pace, and easy access to regional shopping and parks, Franklin Lakes may fit you well. In this guide, you’ll learn how people live here day to day, from housing and lake communities to commuting, schools, and costs to plan for. Let’s dive in.
Franklin Lakes at a glance
Franklin Lakes is a suburban borough in Bergen County with a refined, residential feel. You’ll find low-density single-family neighborhoods, mature trees, and a number of private lake communities. The lifestyle is car-oriented and relaxed, with errands, school drop-offs, and meetups handled by short drives. Evening dining and entertainment often happen in nearby towns or regional hubs.
Housing and neighborhoods
Franklin Lakes is known for detached single-family homes. You’ll see classic colonials and ranches alongside newer custom builds and renovated estates. Many streets feature larger lots than a typical suburb, which adds to the private, semi-rural feel.
Home styles and lot sizes
Most homes are single-family, with styles ranging from mid-20th-century layouts to expansive, modern estates. Zoning favors single-family uses, which limits high-density development and helps maintain the borough’s open feel. If you value outdoor space, backyard living, and privacy landscaping, you’ll find a lot to love.
Lake communities and associations
Several neighborhoods are organized around private lakes, with shared beaches, seasonal swimming, small boating, and community events. Associations set rules for use and may charge annual or seasonal dues. If a lake lifestyle is on your wishlist, review each association’s bylaws, fees, and guest policies early in your search.
What buyers value most
- Larger lots and a quiet setting
- Access to private amenities like association lakes
- A strong move-up and luxury market with renovated homes
- Proximity to NYC with suburban comfort
Daily life and amenities
You’ll handle most day-to-day needs locally. Franklin Lakes has small shopping clusters with groceries, pharmacies, and casual dining. For more variety, many residents drive to nearby Bergen County retail corridors.
Parks and outdoor recreation
Outdoor time is a big part of the Franklin Lakes lifestyle. Local parks support youth and adult programs with fields, courts, and playgrounds, and lake associations anchor summer fun. For hiking and biking, explore nearby resources through the New Jersey State Park Service and Bergen County Parks. Popular nearby spots include Ramapo Mountain State Forest and Campgaw Mountain Reservation. Families also enjoy greenway paths like those within the Saddle River County Park system.
Shopping and dining
Local plazas cover daily needs, while bigger trips often target regional centers. The Paramus corridor and other Bergen County hubs are an easy drive and offer extensive shopping, big-box options, and a wide range of restaurants. Expect to plan most errands by car and combine stops for efficiency.
Healthcare and services
Primary care offices and urgent care are available in and around Franklin Lakes. For advanced care or specialists, residents drive to regional hospitals such as those within the Hackensack Meridian Health network. Borough services, including police, public works, and recreation, are coordinated through the Borough of Franklin Lakes.
Getting around and commuting
Franklin Lakes is a car-first community. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for work, school, and errands. The borough connects easily to Route 17, the Garden State Parkway, and I-287 for regional travel.
Public transit options
Transit within the borough is limited. Many commuters drive to nearby NJ Transit rail stations in neighboring towns or use bus and park-and-ride services along regional corridors. For schedules and route planning, use NJ Transit. Commute times to Manhattan vary widely by time of day, route, and your origin address, so build in extra time during peak hours.
Schools and community
Franklin Lakes is served by a local K–8 district and is part of the Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District. Ramapo High School is located in the borough. For current programs, calendars, and enrollment details, visit the Franklin Lakes Board of Education and the regional district websites. Private school options exist across the region for families exploring alternatives. The borough also provides library services and civic programming that bring neighbors together.
Costs to plan for
Franklin Lakes is considered an upper-tier Bergen County market, and purchase prices often sit above county and state medians. Property taxes in Bergen County and across New Jersey trend higher than the national average, so include annual taxes in your affordability plan. Larger lots and older high-end homes can also carry higher maintenance costs, including landscaping, pools, septic or sewer, HVAC, snow removal, and heating. If you are considering a lake community, factor in association dues and any rules that could affect your lifestyle.
Who Franklin Lakes fits best
Franklin Lakes tends to appeal to buyers who want space, privacy, and a quieter setting with periodic access to NYC. If you enjoy backyard living, seasonal lake activities, and nearby hiking, it delivers a compelling mix of convenience and calm. If you prefer walkable nightlife or frequent late-night options, you may plan to drive to nearby towns for dining and entertainment.
How to start your search
- Outline must-haves like lot size, proximity to highways, or a specific lake community.
- Ask your agent to confirm association rules, fees, and any exterior restrictions before you offer.
- Review recent taxes and utility history for any home you’re considering.
- If you commute, map out peak and off-peak times and test-drive the route to your preferred station or bus line.
Ready to explore homes in Franklin Lakes with a local team that pairs boutique service with data-backed guidance? Reach out to The Meena Patel Group for a personalized plan, multilingual support, and concierge prep that helps you buy or sell with confidence.
FAQs
How long is the commute to Manhattan from Franklin Lakes?
- Commute times vary by route, time of day, and whether you use rail or bus; many residents drive to nearby NJ Transit stations or bus corridors and should allow extra time during peak hours, using NJ Transit schedules to plan.
What types of homes are common in Franklin Lakes?
- The borough is dominated by detached single-family homes, from mid-century colonials and ranches to larger custom and renovated estates, often on bigger lots.
Are there public transit options in Franklin Lakes?
- Transit service in the borough is limited; most commuters use nearby NJ Transit rail stations or bus and park-and-ride services along regional routes, planned via NJ Transit.
How are schools organized in Franklin Lakes?
- A local K–8 district serves elementary and middle grades, and the borough belongs to the Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District; check the Franklin Lakes Board of Education for current programs and calendars.
What should buyers budget for beyond the mortgage?
- Plan for above-average New Jersey property taxes, routine maintenance for larger lots and systems, winter costs like heating and snow removal, and any lake association dues and rules that affect monthly costs.
