Despite its small size, New Jersey boasts a big personality.
New Jersey, also known as the Garden State, has a rich history of being the birthplace of many firsts. It is the place where the first submarine was built and where the first drive-in movie theatre was opened. Additionally, New Jersey is also the site where the first professional basketball and baseball games were played, making it a significant part of American history and culture.
New Jersey boasts not only a rich and vibrant history but it is also recognized as the fourth safest state in the United States.
In the last 12 months, there has been a significant decrease in violent crimes in the state, with a rate drop of nearly six percent. The current incidence rate stands at 2.0 per 1,000 people, indicating a positive trend towards a safer community.
According to recent statistics, property crimes in the state have decreased by 13%, resulting in a new rate of 11.6.
If you’re planning a trip to New Jersey to explore its beautiful beaches, indulge in its delicious cuisine, experience the local culture, or delve into its rich history, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit to this vibrant and diverse state.
Top 10 Safest Cities in New Jersey
Upper Saddle River
Upper Saddle River, a delightful town located just south of the New Jersey/New York border, tops our list.
During the 1700s, this region started out as a humble farming town and today, it still retains its historic charm with notable attractions like the Hopper-Goetschius house and museum and the Saddle River Valley Cultural Center.
Upper Saddle River is a safe destination with a violent crime rate per capita of only 6.7% and a property crime rate of 12.2%. If you’re looking for a place to explore historic attractions without worrying about your safety, Upper Saddle River is an excellent choice.
Furthermore, commuting to New York City on a daily basis is hassle-free.
Chester
Chester is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a combination of outdoor activities and a quaint small-town atmosphere.
Chester is renowned for being one of the wealthiest communities in the state, which is reflected in the higher prices of real estate in the area.
Nevertheless, the low crime rate of this charming town speaks for itself. With only 7.3% violent crime and 11.6% property crime, it is a safe haven for its residents. In fact, it scores an impressive 86% below the national crime average, which is a testament to the town’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful and secure environment.
Norwood
Moving down our list, we have Norwood, a charming town nestled by the scenic Hudson River in the upper northeastern region of New Jersey.
The town’s name has Dutch origins and can be traced back to its founding by Dutch settlers. The area was initially referred to as North-Woods, which eventually evolved into its current name.
Palisades Interstate Park is a perfect destination for those who have a deep love for nature. This park is located on the border of New Jersey and New York, making it easily accessible for visitors from both states.
Travelers looking for the perfect day trip destination near New York City need not look any further than Norwood. This charming town is located just an hour away from the bustling metropolis, making it an ideal spot for visitors who want to experience the best of both worlds. With its unique blend of small-town charm and proximity to the Big Apple, Norwood is the perfect place to spend a day exploring, relaxing, and soaking up the local culture.
With a violent crime rating of just 7.2% and a property crime rating of 8.5%, the town is proud to have crime rates that are 90% lower than the national average.
Montvale
Montvale has an impressive crime rate that is 91% below the national average. This includes a low percentage of violent crime at 6.3% and property crime at 12.2%. Furthermore, Montvale is strategically located near the borders of both New Jersey and New York.
Located in the suburbs, this destination provides a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors. With multiple shopping centers, golf courses, and hiking trails, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, it’s conveniently situated for those who want to explore the bustling city of New York.
Montvale is a stunning destination that boasts a pristine reputation for safety. If you’re looking for a getaway spot that offers both beauty and security, Montvale is the perfect place for you to visit.
North Caldwell
North Caldwell, which is considered one of the most upscale areas on our list, secures the sixth spot for the safest cities in New Jersey.
North Caldwell offers the best of both worlds – a peaceful rural lifestyle and convenient access to the amenities of a bustling city. Located just outside of New York City, this suburb provides an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its charming atmosphere and tranquil surroundings, North Caldwell is the perfect place to call home.
North Caldwell is a remarkably secure place to reside and explore, with a 92% lower than the national average overall crime rate. This is due to the fact that the violent crime rate is only 7% and the property crime rate is 11.3%.
Mendham
Mendham falls right in the middle of our list, with a noteworthy overall crime rating of being 81% below the national average.
The percentage of violent crimes is 6.9%, whereas property crimes are at 9.2%.
Mendham, like many other destinations mentioned here, is a picturesque and safe place for both tourists and locals alike.
The homes in this area may come at a slightly higher cost compared to the neighboring areas, but their historic appeal and tranquil atmosphere justify the expense.
If you want to experience the charm of colonial New Jersey, make sure to visit the Black Horse Tavern & Pub, a beloved establishment among locals.
Tewksbury
Tewksbury, a small town with a population of just 5,800, is another addition to our list. The town has a remarkably low violent crime rating of only 6.4% and a property crime rating of only 11.6%, which means that the overall crime rate is 81% below the national average. This makes Tewksbury an incredibly safe place to reside in.
Located in the New York Metropolitan Area, this delightful town exudes a serene and peaceful vibe that draws families and tourists alike. Its exceptional schools make it an ideal destination for those seeking a safe and nurturing environment for their children.
Moreover, Tewksbury offers unparalleled landscapes that are ideal for individuals who appreciate the beauty of rural areas.
Tewksbury town is an ideal destination for those who love outdoor activities. There are plenty of recreational experiences available here, including golf courses where you can practice your swing. Additionally, the town hosts the annual Tewksbury Harvest Festival, which is a must-visit event for everyone.
Chesterfield
Ranked as the third best town, Chesterfield is a charming township located in the midst of the bustling cities of New York and Philadelphia.
The town’s prime location makes it a popular destination for both tourists and residents alike. One can easily plan a day trip to the nearby cities or choose to spend a more leisurely day exploring the town’s rural charm and rich history.
Chesterfield, a small town with a population of just 7,500, stands out for its remarkably low crime rates. In fact, the town has only 6.9% violent crimes per capita and a 10.2% property crime rating, making it a safe and secure place to live.
Matawan
Nestled just a short distance away from the Jersey Shore, you’ll find Matawan – a charming city that boasts the title of being New Jersey’s second safest.
Matawan, a town founded by Dutch settlers in the 17th century, offers a plethora of outdoor activities for enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, Matawan has something for everyone.
Matawan is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking to discover the charming Cheesequake State Park or simply relax on the beautiful local beaches.
According to statistics, the town experiences a remarkably low crime rate, with only 6.7% of the reported crimes being violent and property crimes at 13%. In comparison to the national crime rate, this town is a staggering 96% below it, proving that it is a safe place to live in.
New Hanover
After much anticipation, the title of the safest city in New Jersey goes to none other than New Hanover!
New Hanover, with a population of just 7,500, boasts an incredibly low violent crime rate of 7.5% and a property crime rate of 7.1%. This makes it a safe and secure place to live, where residents can feel at ease knowing that their community is protected.
Property crimes and larceny are the most frequently occurring criminal activities in this picturesque town located in the Garden State.
The location is not only extremely secure but also boasts of a peaceful suburban vibe, making it the perfect place to raise a family or spend some quality time.
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