New Jersey’s Highest Property Taxes:A Closer Look at Alpine

When it comes to property taxes, Alpine, New Jersey, tops the list as the town with the highest average tax bills in the state. Located in Bergen County, this affluent community’s homeowners face average property taxes exceeding $22,000 annually, far surpassing the state average. While Alpine's high taxes are notable, they reflect the town's unique combination of luxury real estate, exceptional public services, and limited commercial development.

Why Alpine’s Taxes Are So High

Alpine's high property taxes can be attributed to several key factors:

• High Property Values: Alpine is one of the wealthiest towns in New Jersey, home to multimillion-dollar mansions and estates. With property values reaching into the tens of millions, tax bills naturally follow suit.

• Top-Quality Public Services: Residents benefit from well-funded services, including a highly-rated school system, robust public safety, and well-maintained infrastructure—all of which are supported by property taxes.

• Limited Commercial Development: Alpine has little commercial real estate, meaning most tax revenue comes from residential properties. This puts more pressure on homeowners to fund local services.

The Community and Its Appeal

Despite its high property taxes, Alpine remains one of the most desirable places to live in New Jersey. Nestled along the Hudson River, it offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, and its quiet, exclusive atmosphere appeals to celebrities, business executives, and those seeking privacy while staying close to New York City.

The town is small, with a tight-knit community feel, and the local public schools rank highly, adding to the appeal for families. Many homeowners are willing to pay the high taxes because of the luxury living and the quality of life that Alpine offers.

Challenges for Homeowners

The high tax bills can be a financial strain for some, especially older residents or those on fixed incomes. However, programs like the Senior Freeze can provide some relief for qualifying homeowners by freezing property tax increases.

For potential buyers, the high taxes may be a consideration, but for those who can afford it, the benefits of living in Alpine—privacy, luxury, and exceptional services—often outweigh the cost.

Looking Ahead

With property values continuing to rise in Alpine, it’s likely that the town’s tax rates will stay among the highest in the state. While this places a financial burden on homeowners, it also ensures that the town retains its exclusivity and high quality of life. Local officials are aware of the tax strain and may look into options for relief, but for now, Alpine’s high taxes are part of what makes it a premier New Jersey address.