Hillcrest, Paterson,NJ

Hillcrest, nestled in the southeast part of Paterson, NJ, offers a charming blend of urban convenience and a close-knit community vibe, making it a great choice for anyone considering a move to the area. Known for its tree-lined streets and a variety of housing options, from cozy single-family homes to well-kept apartment buildings, Hillcrest appeals to a diverse group of residents. The neighborhood’s welcoming atmosphere is perfect for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the joys of living here is the easy access to several local parks, such as the beautiful Eastside Park, where residents can enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, and seasonal community events.

For those who love being near the buzz of city life but prefer a quieter place to call home, Hillcrest is conveniently located just a short drive or bus ride away from Downtown Paterson. This proximity means you can easily explore the city's vibrant cultural scene, including the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, which offers stunning views and a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Additionally, the neighborhood hosts a selection of local eateries and shops that bring a unique, multicultural flavor to everyday life. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at a neighborhood cafe or shopping at local markets, Hillcrest’s community-oriented businesses make running errands or socializing a pleasure.

Hillcrest also stands out for its strong sense of community and access to quality schools, which is a big draw for families relocating to Paterson. The neighborhood benefits from active civic groups and neighborhood associations that regularly organize events, helping residents connect and celebrate their shared space. For commuters, the area offers convenient access to major highways and public transportation, making it easy to travel to nearby cities like Newark or New York City for work or leisure. Overall, Hillcrest strikes a wonderful balance between suburban calm and the excitement of city living, making it a welcoming spot for newcomers looking to settle in Paterson.

In Hillcrest, 38% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

38% of people over 16 have children, so you're likely to find a balanced mix of family life and adult-oriented living. The neighborhood tends to feel lively without being overwhelming, with a good blend of young families, professionals, and long-term residents. Parks, playgrounds, and local schools contribute to a friendly community atmosphere, while quieter pockets and mature spaces appeal to those seeking peace and privacy. This balance makes the area welcoming to nearly everyone.

Hillcrest demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 8,246, the number of residents who reside in Hillcrest is about average in size compared to other Paterson neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Boasting a population density of 9,510, Hillcrest is more densely populated than many other Paterson neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 38, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Hillcrest crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Hillcrest, the median home price is about $354,553, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Hillcrest have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

With an average rent price of $1,606, rental rates in Hillcrest are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Hillcrest. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Hillcrest offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.