Englewood Cliffs Demographics and Population Trends

Englewood Cliffs Demographics and Population Trends

Englewood Cliffs is a distinguished borough in New Jersey characterized by its affluent residential landscape and a rich, evolving multicultural identity. From its modest beginnings at the turn of the 20th century to its current status as a hub for international corporate headquarters and diverse ethnic communities, the borough's demographic shifts reflect broader trends of urbanization and globalization.

The area is particularly noted for its high property values. In 2006, Forbes magazine ranked Englewood Cliffs as the 78th most expensive ZIP Code in the United States and 6th in New Jersey, with a median house price of $1,112,500. By 2012, it remained a premier location, ranking 129th nationally and 5th in New Jersey, with the median home price rising to $1,439,115.

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Key Facts

  • 2020 Population: 5,342 residents.
  • Median Age: 49.0 years (as of 2020).
  • Urbanization: 100% of residents live in urban areas.
  • Cultural Hub: A significant Korean American population, influenced by the proximity to Fort Lee's Koreatown and the presence of the LG Corporation's North American headquarters.
  • Housing: 68.2% of households are married-couple households (2020 Census).

Population Growth and Historical Trends

The population of Englewood Cliffs experienced dramatic growth throughout the mid-20th century. After starting with just 218 residents in 1900, the borough saw a massive surge between 1950 and 1970, with the population jumping from 966 to 5,938. Since 1980, the population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating slightly around the 5,300 mark.

Population History of Englewood Cliffs
Census Year Population Percentage Change (%)
1900 218
1930 809 51.5%
1960 2,913 201.6%
1970 5,938 103.8%
2000 5,322 -5.5%
2020 5,342 1.2%
2023 (est.) 5,321 -0.4%

Racial and Ethnic Composition

The ethnic makeup of Englewood Cliffs has shifted significantly over the last two decades. While the Non-Hispanic White population was the majority in 2000 (62.78%), it decreased to 41.20% by 2020. Conversely, the Asian population has seen substantial growth, rising from 29.69% in 2000 to 47.44% in 2020.

The Korean American Influence

A defining characteristic of the borough is its strong Korean American community. By 2010, Korean Americans accounted for 20.3% of the population. This growth is attributed to the expansion from the neighboring Fort Lee Koreatown and the establishment of the LG Corporation's North American headquarters. According to 2017 U.S. Census Bureau data, more than half of the residents speak the Korean language at home.

Other Ethnic Groups

Beyond the Korean community, the borough hosts other significant ancestral groups. As of the 2000 Census, 8.42% of residents identified as Chinese American (the third highest percentage in New Jersey for municipalities with over 1,000 such residents) and 3.4% as Armenian American (the eighth highest percentage in the U.S.). By 2010, the Asian Indian population reached 5.7%.

Household and Economic Profile

The borough is characterized by a mature population and high household stability. As of the 2020 Census, the median age was 49.0 years, with 26.3% of residents aged 65 or older. The community is predominantly urban, with 100% of residents living in urban areas.

Housing and Family Structure

In 2020, there were 1,846 households, with 33% containing children under 18. Married-couple households make up the majority at 68.2%. The housing market remains tight, with only a 5.9% overall vacancy rate in 2020, consisting of a 2.4% homeowner vacancy rate and a 6.8% rental vacancy rate.

Income and Poverty

Economic data from the 2006–2010 American Community Survey indicated a median household income of $101,964 and a median family income of $126,985. Earlier data from 2000 showed a median household income of $106,478, which rose to an estimated $134,419 by 2008. Despite the overall wealth, 16.1% of the population lived below the poverty line according to 2010 data, with a higher concentration (32.7%) among those aged 65 or over.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current population of Englewood Cliffs?

As of the 2020 census, the population was 5,342, with a 2023 estimate of 5,321 residents.

Why is there a large Korean population in Englewood Cliffs?

The growth is driven by the borough's status as the North American headquarters for the LG Corporation and the expansion of the community from the nearby Koreatown in Fort Lee.

How expensive is the real estate in Englewood Cliffs?

The borough is one of the most expensive in New Jersey; Forbes reported a median home price of $1,439,115 in 2012.

What is the racial makeup of the borough?

As of 2020, the population is approximately 47.44% Asian, 41.20% Non-Hispanic White, 6.38% Hispanic or Latino, and 2.00% Black or African American.

What is the median age of residents?

The median age was 49.0 years according to the 2020 census.

References

  1. 2012 New Jersey Legislative District Data Book, Rutgers University Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, March 2013, p. 160.
  2. Mayor & Council, Englewood Cliffs Borough. Accessed January 21, 2025.
  3. NJ Mayors Directory, New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Accessed February 1, 2026.
  4. Administrative Offices, Borough of Englewood Cliffs. Accessed April 19, 2026.
  5. Borough Clerk, Borough of Englewood Cliffs. Accessed April 19, 2026.