What It Means for Local Real Estate

Introduction

In a recent ranking by Patch.com and U.S. News & World Report, Northern Highlands Regional High School was named one of the top 10 public high schools in New Jersey[1]. This recognition is more than just a badge of academic excellence—it’s a powerful driver of real estate demand in the surrounding communities. As a local real estate agent, I see firsthand how families prioritize school districts when choosing where to live, and Northern Highlands is consistently at the top of their list.

Why Northern Highlands Stands Out

Located in Allendale, NJ, Northern Highlands serves students from Allendale, Ho-Ho-Kus, Saddle River, and Upper Saddle River[2]. The school boasts:

A 99% graduation rate
87% math proficiency, 80% reading proficiency
A student-teacher ratio of 11:1
66% AP participation rate with 25 AP courses offered[3]turn4search81

These metrics place Northern Highlands in the top 10% of schools statewide, and it ranks #569 nationally[3].

Notable Programs and Opportunities

Northern Highlands offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs:

Advanced Placement (AP) courses in math, science, literature, and history
A robust English/Language Arts department with creative writing, journalism, and genre studies[4]
Award-winning extracurriculars, including athletics, literary publications, and student government
Career & Academic Pathways events that connect students with real-world opportunities[5]

The school’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its modern facilities and community-supported enhancements.

Feeder Towns: Where Families Are Moving

Families seeking access to Northern Highlands often look to settle in one of its feeder towns:

Allendale, NJ

Median home value: $1,059,318 (up 6.7% YoY)[6]
Median sold price: $1M
Seller’s market: Homes sell for 8.57% above asking price
Average days on market: 31 days[7]

Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ

Median home value: $1,165,315 (up 7.2% YoY)[8]
Median sold price: $1.2M
Sale-to-list ratio: 109.56%
Average days on market: 22 days[9]

Upper Saddle River, NJ

Median home value: $1,374,840 (up 5.9% YoY)[10]
Median sold price: $1.6M
Sale-to-list ratio: 102.25%
Average days on market: 71 days[11]

These towns offer spacious homes, excellent amenities, and a strong sense of community—making them ideal for families prioritizing education.

Why School Rankings Drive Real Estate Demand

Top-rated schools like Northern Highlands are magnets for buyers. Families are willing to pay a premium to live in districts with strong academic reputations. As a real estate agent, I’ve seen homes in these towns sell faster and for higher prices than comparable properties in neighboring areas.

Buyers are choosing Northern Highlands towns because of the schools. It’s not just about academics—it’s about community, opportunity, and long-term value.

A Golden Opportunity for Sellers

If you’re an empty nester living in Allendale, Ho-Ho-Kus, Saddle River, or Upper Saddle River, now is a great time to sell. With limited inventory and high demand, sellers are receiving multiple offers and favorable terms.

Why it’s a good time to sell:

High sale-to-list ratios (often above 100%)
Short days on market
Rising home values
Motivated buyers seeking top school districts

Advice for Buyers

If you’re considering a move to one of these towns:

Act quickly—homes don’t stay on the market long
Get pre-approved to strengthen your offer
Work with a local agent who understands the nuances of each neighborhood

As a real estate team with 50+ years of combined experience in the area, The Lisella Property Group can help you navigate the competitive landscape and find the right home for your family.

In Summary

Northern Highlands Regional High School’s top 10 ranking is a testament to its excellence—and a signal to buyers and sellers alike. Whether you’re looking to move into the district or capitalize on your home’s value, the time is right.

Let’s connect. We’re happy to help you explore your options, whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about the market.