Cost of living in Bergen County
Bergen County, located in New Jersey, is known for its proximity to New York City and its suburban charm. Understanding the cost of living in this area is crucial for potential residents and those considering relocation.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Bergen County, covering everything from dining and groceries to housing and transportation.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $20 on average, with a range between $13 and $25.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $80, with prices ranging from $60 to $130.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $11.5, with a range between $10 and $15.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $8, imported beer $4 to $12, cappuccino $3 to $6, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $3.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.53 and $1.74 per liter, averaging $1.28.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $2.76 and $8, with an average price of $4.4.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.19 to $6.98, averaging $4.75.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2 to $6.59 per kg, while oranges range from $2 to $6.61 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.32 and $6.59 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.5 to $4.99 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $2.75 and $4.2.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.79 and $0.99 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $3, with a cost of $2.05 per km and $24 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $2500.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $2700.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $3400 to $6500, averaging $4633.33.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $3000.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre averages $3950.36.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter averages $3767.37.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $85 and $250, averaging $118.73.
- Internet - Internet services range from $40 to $75, with an average cost of $64.17.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Bergen County offers a suburban lifestyle with costs reflecting its proximity to New York City. Housing is a significant expense, especially in the city centre.
Dining out can be affordable, with a range of options from casual to upscale. Grocery prices vary, with some items like bread and eggs being relatively high.
Transportation costs are moderate, with public transport and fuel prices being reasonable. Utilities and internet services are competitively priced.
Conclusion
Living in Bergen County, NJ, presents a blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience, with costs reflecting its desirable location.
While housing remains a major expense, careful budgeting for dining, groceries, and transportation can help manage overall living costs effectively.