1. It offers unparalleled privacy and security
For celebrities and those in the know, privacy is not just a luxury - it’s a complete necessity! The paparazzi and fans that swarm Hollywood and New York City can make everyday life a veritable challenge for high-profile figures. But once they are in Alpine, however, the place offers an escape from the public eye. For one, the town is known for its gated mansions, long driveways, and expansive properties, which ensures that residents can enjoy their homes without any intrusion whatsoever – no tour buses, no paparazzi, and no strangers ogling at their private domain. For another, many properties sit on multiple (and we mean multiple) acres of land, making it nearly impossible for prying eyes to catch a glimpse of their famous occupants.
Moreover, the town actually enforces strict zoning laws that prevent overdevelopment and help maintain its low-density appeal. The local authorities as well as members of the community are also protective of all their residents, ensuring that Alpine remains a sanctuary for those who crave – and deserve - solitude.
2. It’s a short drive to Manhattan
But perhaps one of Alpine’s greatest advantages is its location. It is, after all, just 15 miles away from Midtown Manhattan – which means that the town allows celebrities to stay connected to the entertainment and business hubs without living in the middle of the chaos that is NYC. Just a quick 30-minute drive over the George Washington Bridge means that residents can attend Broadway premieres, high-profile events, and power meetings in the city whenever they want and prefer while returning home to the peace and quiet of their Alpine property.
This proximity to New York has attracted numerous business moguls, entertainers, and athletes who need easy access to the city but prefer a suburban retreat. Unlike Los Angeles, where commuting can be a nightmare, Alpine provides a seamless balance between urban convenience and rural tranquility. What more could anyone want? Whenever you want excitement and crowds, the Big Apple is just a hop, skip, and a jump away – but when you’ve had enough, you can easily go back to your tranquil escape.
3. A reputation for wealth and exclusivity
Alpine consistently ranks among the wealthiest zip codes in the United States – it is always on Forbes Magazine’s yearly list of America’s Most Expensive Zip Codes. Granted, in 2023, Alpine dropped to number 53 – but years before that, it stayed nearly at the top. But the real estate prices in Alpine still reflect its exclusivity, with many homes selling for tens of millions of dollars. As mentioned, as of December, 2024, the average price of a home in Alpine was $2.8 million! Some of the most luxurious properties in the community boast fabulous resort-like amenities: infinity pools, tennis courts, home theaters, private gyms, and so much more.
It follows, then, that the town’s elite reputation has drawn numerous high-profile residents over the years. Celebrities such as Chris Rock, Stevie Wonder, Lil’ Kim, and Sean “Diddy” Combs have all called Alpine home at some point. The appeal lies in the fact that Alpine offers them the kind of privacy, exclusivity, and grandeur that is hard to find elsewhere. Plus, we’d like to think that Alpine gives them a sense of community that’s hard to find anywhere else – which brings us to our next point.
4. A low-key, close-knit community
Unlike other celebrity enclaves like Beverly Hills or the Hamptons, another aspect that distinguishes Alpine from the rest is that Alpine lacks the ostentatious storefronts and tourist traps that typically attract attention. There are no sprawling shopping centers or bustling nightlife scenes in the area - just quiet residential streets lined with grand estates and tree-covered landscapes – the typical suburbia that everyone appreciates.
This understated charm is precisely what makes Alpine appealing to stars who want to escape the limelight. Residents in Alpine value their privacy, and the small-town atmosphere means that neighbors respect each other’s space. Unlike in Hollywood, where star sightings are common and there are even tours of ‘Celebrity Homes,’ Alpine’s culture strongly discourages gawking and paparazzi intrusions. Celebrities can simply go about their business in the town’s groceries and shops and dine in peace without fear of someone accosting them halfway through their shopping or quality time with their families.
5. World-class education and family-friendly living
Many of these celebrities and high-net-worth individuals choose Alpine because it offers an exceptional quality of life, particularly for families. The town is served by the prestigious and highly regarded Tenafly High School, which consistently ranks among the top schools in New Jersey. In addition, Alpine’s proximity to elite private institutions, such as the Bergen County Academies and the Dwight-Englewood School, ensures that residents have more access to the best educational opportunities for their children.
The suburban setting available in Alpine also provides an ideal environment for raising a family – and this is precisely why numerous families have decided to settle here. With numerous parks, hiking trails, and recreational areas nearby, including the above-mentioned Alpine Lookout and Palisades Interstate Park, Alpine allows children to grow up away from the glare of the paparazzi while still being close to the cultural, natural, and educational resources of New Jersey and New York City.
6. A safe haven for high-profile residents
Safety is another key concern for high-profile individuals, as we all know, and Alpine delivers on that score. The town has an immensely low crime rate, and many of its estates are equipped with the most advanced security systems, including surveillance cameras, gated entrances with guard houses, and 24-hour security teams. The local police force of Alpine is also highly responsive and vigilant, and they ensure that the community remains safe and secure at all times.
This emphasis on safety is yet one more reason why Alpine has become a preferred retreat for celebrities – especially those who want to enjoy their homes without the constant fear and worry of security breaches and altercations.
7. Scenic beauty and a tranquil environment
Aside from its exclusivity and security, Alpine offers breathtaking natural beauty. It may be hard to imagine, being that Alpine is right next to New York, but the town is surrounded by striking Palisades cliffs, which provide panoramic views of the Hudson River and beyond. Aside from this, many homes are designed to take advantage of these scenic vistas – you will see many homes and properties with floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor terraces, and lush gardens that blend seamlessly with the Alpine landscape.
Residents also have prime access to outdoor recreational activities – families can enjoy the great outdoors with activities such as hiking, cycling, and golfing. The nearby Alpine Country Club, for instance, is a popular retreat for affluent individuals who want to enjoy a leisurely round of golf or a fine dining experience away from prying eyes.
