The wealthy New Jersey enclave shaped by Dutch settlers and cinematic history

Cultures · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Bordering the Hudson River, Bergen County is a landscape of dramatic sandstone cliffs and immense economic power. From its origins as a colonial settlement to its era as a global motion picture capital, this densely populated region holds a complex legacy of migration and industry.

Established in 1683, Bergen County’s very name remains a subject of historical debate. While some link it to Bergen, Norway, or the Dutch city of Bergen op Zoom, others suggest it honors Hans Hansen Bergen, a Norwegian settler who arrived in New Amsterdam in 1633. Long before European arrival, the region was home to the Lenape Nation, specifically subgroups like the Tappan and Hackensack. Over centuries, the landscape transformed from a colonial frontier—marked by the 1776 abandonment of Fort Lee during the War of Independence—into a major hub for the film industry during the early 20th century.

Today, the county stands as New Jersey's most populous region, characterized by a high level of development within the New York City metropolitan area. It is a significant economic engine, particularly through its retail sector; the town of Paramus alone generates more than $6 billion in annual retail revenue. This commercial strength is paired with notable wealth, featuring a median household income that significantly exceeds both state and national averages. However, this prosperity is subject to unique local regulations, such as 'blue laws' that restrict shopping in many areas to six days a and even stricter rules in Paramus.

The county's modern identity is defined by both large-scale infrastructure and community-focused evolution. While the Meadowlands Sports Complex hosts professional teams from both New York and New Jersey, the county continues to invest in its local landscape. Recent initiatives include a new 'Storybook Master Plan' for the Bergen County Zoo to improve animal habitats, and the upcoming development of the Bergen County PACE Center for Older Adults. Even the natural environment remains a central character, as seen when severe weather, such as a 2026 nor'easter, forces the cancellation of long-standing cultural events like the Jazz Blast at Wortendyke Barn.

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