Map of Fort Lee, United States

Fort Lee, NJ, is a vibrant borough located at the eastern border of New Jersey, directly across the Hudson River from Manhattan. Known for its rich history and cultural diversity, Fort Lee offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. The city is a hub for film and television production, earning it the nickname 'The Birthplace of the Motion Picture Industry.'

In recent years, Fort Lee has seen significant growth in its residential and commercial sectors, attracting a diverse population and fostering a dynamic community atmosphere. The city is characterized by its bustling downtown area, which features a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Fort Lee's strategic location makes it an attractive place for commuters working in New York City, offering easy access to major highways and public transportation.

Healthcare
69.44
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Traffic
129.17
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Property
3.43
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History and Culture

Fort Lee's history dates back to the American Revolutionary War, where it served as a strategic military post. The borough was named after General Charles Lee, a prominent figure in the Continental Army. During the early 20th century, Fort Lee became a pivotal location for the burgeoning film industry, with numerous studios setting up operations in the area.

The cultural landscape of Fort Lee is enriched by its diverse population, with significant communities of Korean, Chinese, and Japanese residents. This diversity is reflected in the city's cultural events, festivals, and culinary offerings, making it a vibrant place to experience a variety of traditions and cuisines.

Notable cultural institutions in Fort Lee include the Fort Lee Museum, which offers insights into the borough's historical significance, and the Fort Lee Film Commission, which celebrates the city's cinematic heritage. The annual Fort Lee Arts & Music Festival is a highlight, showcasing local talent and attracting visitors from across the region.

Things to do in Fort Lee

Fort Lee offers a wide range of activities and attractions for residents and visitors alike. The Fort Lee Historic Park provides a glimpse into the area's Revolutionary War history, with scenic views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Palisades Interstate Park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking vistas.

The city's culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, with a plethora of restaurants offering everything from traditional Korean BBQ to contemporary American cuisine. The downtown area is a popular destination for shopping and dining, featuring a mix of local boutiques and well-known retailers.

Cultural events and festivals are a staple of life in Fort Lee. The annual Fort Lee Film Festival celebrates the borough's cinematic roots, while the Fort Lee Arts & Music Festival highlights the local arts scene. These events, along with regular community gatherings, contribute to the city's lively and inclusive atmosphere.

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Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for the United States reflect how livable a city in United States is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Dec, 2024
Full Quality of Life Rankings

Weather in Fort Lee

Fort Lee, NJ, United States experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 47 inches (1194 mm), with July being the wettest month, averaging around 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 72°F (22°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with April receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 4 inches (102 mm).
  • Summer (June to August) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 72°F (22°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with April receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 4 inches (102 mm).
  • Autumn (September to November) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 72°F (22°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with April receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 4 inches (102 mm).
  • Winter (December to February) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 72°F (22°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with April receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 4 inches (102 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Heatwaves during summer months, occasionally pushing temperatures above 90°F (32°C).
  • Frequent thunderstorms in summer, sometimes leading to localized flooding.
  • Snowstorms in winter, occasionally resulting in significant snow accumulation and disruptions.
Overall, Fort Lee's climate offers a mix of hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, with moderate to high rainfall distributed throughout the year.

Fort Lee's Political Climate

Democratic

Fort Lee, located in New Jersey, United States, is a city with a dynamic political landscape characterized by its diverse community and strategic location near New York City. The city's governance is primarily Democratic, reflecting the broader political tendencies of Bergen County. Fort Lee's political history is marked by its transformation from a quiet suburban area to a bustling urban center, which has influenced its political priorities and leadership.

Currently, Fort Lee is led by a mayor-council form of government, with the mayor playing a significant role in shaping the city's policies. The city council is composed of members who are predominantly affiliated with the Democratic Party, which aligns with the city's progressive stance on various issues. Key political issues in Fort Lee include urban development, transportation infrastructure, and maintaining a high quality of life for its residents.

Fort Lee has been proactive in implementing progressive policies, particularly in areas such as sustainability and social justice. The city has initiated several green projects aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting environmental awareness among its residents. Additionally, Fort Lee has been supportive of social justice initiatives, focusing on inclusivity and equality for all its citizens.

The political climate in Fort Lee significantly influences its economic and social decisions. The city's leadership prioritizes economic development while ensuring that growth is sustainable and beneficial to the community. Recent trends in Fort Lee's political scene include increased civic engagement and participation in local governance, driven by a well-informed and active citizenry.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 68%
City Governance - Mayor-Council
Composition - Majority Democratic
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on sustainability and urban development.
Engagement - High
Political Scorecard - A- for governance and transparency
Legislative Priorities - Sustainability initiatives, Urban development, Transportation infrastructure
Public Opinion - Generally progressive with strong support for environmental and social policies.
Notable Political Figures
  • Mark Sokolich - Current Mayor of Fort Lee, known for his focus on urban development and community engagement.
  • Irene Park - City Council Member, advocate for sustainability and environmental policies.
  • John Mitchell - Former Mayor, played a key role in Fort Lee's economic expansion.
Fort Lee

Quick Facts

Population
37,800
Median Age
46.2 yrs
Median Household Income
$83,000
Median Home Price
$550,000
Avg Rent Prices
$2,200
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
Avg commute time
36.5 mins
Avg High Temps
63° F
Avg Low Temps
44° F
Annual Rainfall
47 inches
Fort Lee

"Key Takeaways"

Fort Lee is known as 'The Birthplace of the Motion Picture Industry' due to its early film production history.

The city boasts a diverse cultural landscape, with significant Korean, Chinese, and Japanese communities.

Fort Lee offers easy access to New York City, making it a convenient location for commuters.