Bergen Beach, New York,NY

Thinking about relocating to a peaceful, family-friendly neighborhood with a strong sense of community? Bergen Beach in southeast New York City offers just that and more. Known for its suburban charm, this neighborhood is a refreshing change from the bustling urban core, with quiet streets, single-family homes, and plenty of green spaces. Residents enjoy easy access to parks like the Bergen Beach Playground and the nearby Marine Park, which is perfect for weekend picnics, jogging, or simply unwinding by the water. The local vibe is warm and welcoming, making it ideal for those who value a close-knit community feel while still being within reach of city conveniences.

One of the standout features of Bergen Beach is its proximity to some great local attractions. The area boasts several waterfront spots along Jamaica Bay, offering opportunities for fishing, bird-watching, and scenic sunset views. The nearby Gateway National Recreation Area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring hiking trails, beaches, and wildlife observation points. For families, the neighborhood offers reputable schools and community centers that host activities and events throughout the year, fostering a strong neighborhood spirit. Bergen Beach also has a variety of small businesses, from cozy cafes to local shops, creating a charming small-town atmosphere right in the city.

While Bergen Beach provides a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, it’s still conveniently located about a 45-minute drive or subway ride from Downtown Manhattan. This means residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: peaceful suburban living with easy access to the vibrant cultural, dining, and entertainment scenes of the city center. Commuters will find that the neighborhood’s connections via public transit and major roadways make daily travel manageable. Whether you’re starting a family, looking for a quieter lifestyle, or simply want a friendly neighborhood with plenty of outdoor activities nearby, Bergen Beach is a wonderful option to consider when moving to New York City’s southeast side.

In Bergen Beach, 21% 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.

With only 21% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Bergen Beach demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 2,969 residents, Bergen Beach is notably smaller than many other New York neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Bergen Beach has a population density of 2,927, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other New York neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 46, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Bergen Beach crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Bergen Beach, home prices come in around $795,986, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Bergen Beach can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,747, rental rates in Bergen Beach 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 Bergen Beach. 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 Bergen Beach 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.