Cost of Living in Fort Lee
Summary: If you are thinking about moving to Fort Lee, here is an overview of the cost of living there.
Fort Lee, located just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, is a diverse and vibrant community with a cost of living that reflects its proximity to New York City. Housing prices in Fort Lee can vary widely depending on the location, size, and amenities of the property. As of my knowledge cutoff in early 2023, the median price for a 3-bedroom home in Fort Lee might range from $500,000 to $800,000, while a 4-bedroom home could cost anywhere from $600,000 to over $1 million, depending on the exact location and the state of the real estate market.
Apartment rentals in Fort Lee also cover a broad spectrum. A 1-bedroom apartment might rent for between $1,800 and $2,500 per month, while a 2-bedroom unit could go for $2,500 to $3,500 or more. For those interested in purchasing an apartment, prices can range from $300,000 for a modest 1-bedroom to upwards of $1 million for a luxury 3-bedroom unit with views of the Manhattan skyline.
When it comes to dining out, Fort Lee offers a variety of restaurants ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant might cost around $15 to $25 per person, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant could be priced between $50 and $75 per person. Of course, fine dining establishments and those with a view of the city will command higher prices.
Utilities in Fort Lee, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage services, can average around $150 to $250 per month for a standard apartment, depending on usage and the time of year. Internet services typically add another $60 to $100 to monthly expenses.
Private school tuition in Fort Lee varies widely based on the institution and the level of education. Preschool costs can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per month. Elementary and middle schools might charge anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 per year, while private high schools can cost between $15,000 and $40,000 annually. These figures can fluctuate based on the school's reputation, facilities, and the specific programs they offer.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| 3-bedroom home (purchase) | $500,000 - $800,000 |
| 4-bedroom home (purchase) | $600,000 - $1,000,000+ |
| 1-bedroom apartment (rent) | $1,800 - $2,500/month |
| 2-bedroom apartment (rent) | $2,500 - $3,500+/month |
| Apartment (purchase) | $300,000 - $1,000,000+ |
| Inexpensive restaurant meal | $15 - $25/person |
| Mid-range restaurant (3-course) | $50 - $75/person |
| Utilities (monthly) | $150 - $250 |
| Internet (monthly) | $60 - $100 |
| Private preschool (monthly) | $1,000 - $2,000 |
| Private elementary/middle school (annual) | $10,000 - $30,000 |
| Private high school (annual) | $15,000 - $40,000 |
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of BlueBurbia and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and BlueBurbia, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
New Jersey Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in New Jersey on our New Jersey forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in New Jersey by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in New Jersey.
