15 Safest Neighborhoods In New Jersey 2025

A state with much pride over its safe and welcoming way of living, New Jersey offers peace of mind in addition to a fantastic culture and lifestyle that seems to cater to everyone’s taste. Diverse communities, proximity to other major cities like New York and Philadelphia, and a distinct blend of urban and suburban living make this the ideal destination for families, young professionals, and retirees. Indeed, safety is at the core of most towns in New Jersey, owing to proactive measures, such as well-funded local police departments, neighborhood watch programs, advanced surveillance systems, and community outreach initiatives. 

The towns also aim to build close ties in the communities through events and create communication channels between residents and the authorities, thus largely contributing to low crime rates. This blog focuses on the safest cities in New Jersey by presenting neighborhoods with security, affordability, and high-quality lifestyles, therefore making them some of the best places to live.

How to Choose the Best Neighborhoods in New Jersey

To identify the safest neighborhoods in New Jersey, we used the following criteria:

1. Crime rate: It is another critical factor; a district with established safety measures, community policing, and proactive law enforcement is generally reported to have fewer violent and property crimes.
2. Cost of Living: Neighborhoods that achieve balanced affordability allow for financial stability where most of the residents can simply live well without overstepping their budget margins.
3. Healthcare Access: Easy access to the hospital and medical facilities ensures that healthcare can be obtained in the event of any need for a family and seniors.
4. Amenities: A variety of schools, parks, shops, and dining options enhance convenience and contribute to a well-rounded, comfortable lifestyle.
5. Community Engagement: Strong community bonds through local events and initiatives create a welcoming and cohesive environment that fosters trust and safety.

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Is New Jersey Safe?

Many people wonder, “Is New Jersey safe?” The answer depends on where you live. While New Jersey has some areas with higher crime rates, many towns and cities rank among the safest places to live in NJ. With proper research and a focus on the safest neighborhoods in New Jersey, you can find areas that are ideal for your needs and lifestyle. In fact, several towns are considered safe places to live in New Jersey near NYC, combining security and convenience.

15 Safest Neighborhoods in New Jersey

Below is a comprehensive list of the safest cities in NJ, with detailed insights about each neighborhood:

1. Chatham

• Safety: Low crime rates.
• Safety Score: 9.8/10
• Cost of Living: Above average.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,300/month
• Average Home Price: $800,000
• Healthcare: Close to top-rated hospitals.
• Climate: Four distinct seasons.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Excellent schools, parks, and local shops.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere.
• Great For: Families, professionals.

Chatham is actually the benchmark in New Jersey for being safe because its crime rank is one of the lowest ranks in the state. Overall crime rate is 68% lower than the national average, with violent crimes being 94% lower. Chatham offers a pedestrian-friendly environment, especially in its downtown areas, making it safe for walking both during the day and at night. The community’s safety and well-maintained infrastructure make it conducive for children to walk or bike to school. Efforts have been made to enhance walkability for students, including Safe Routes to School programs aimed at assessing and improving the feasibility of walking and biking to schools in the area.​

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2. Ridgewood

• Safety: Low crime.
• Safety Score: 9.6/10
• Cost of Living: High.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,500/month
• Average Home Price: $850,000
• Healthcare: Access to Valley Hospital.
• Climate: Mild winters, warm summers.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Excellent dining, boutique shopping, and cultural activities.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: It is a charming town with a vibrant downtown.
• Great For: Families, retirees.

Ridgewood is considered a safe town because the overall crime rate is approximately 7 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average. It has a pedestrian-friendly environment, and the downtown area has a Walk Score of 95, indicating that daily errands do not require a car. This walkability extends into the evening, making it safe and convenient to explore the village nightlife. The safe environment around Ridgewood makes it feasible for children to walk to school.

3. Haddonfield

• Safety: Low violent crime rates.
• Safety Score: 9.5/10
• Cost of Living: Moderate.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $1,900/month
• Average Home Price: $500,000
• Healthcare: Access to Virtua Hospital.
• Climate: Moderate with distinct seasons.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Historic charm, excellent schools.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Tight-knit community and rich history.
• Great For: Families, history enthusiasts.

Haddonfield has always nurtured a safe reputation due to its low crime rates, 14 per 1,000 residents, and the community-related activities.

The community’s layout and infrastructure support children walking or biking to school. Participation in events like International Walk and Bike to School Day highlights the borough’s commitment to promoting safe, active transportation for students. Haddonfield is a desirable place for families and history lovers because of its concern for building a safe community.

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4. Montclair

• Safety: Strong community engagement.
• Safety Score: 9.4/10
• Cost of Living: High.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,400/month
• Average Home Price: $700,000
• Healthcare: Proximity to Mountainside Hospital.
• Climate: Four seasons.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Arts, culture, and excellent schools.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Ideal for families seeking culture and safety.
• Great For: Families, young professionals.

Montclair is a walkable, family-friendly township with a tight-knit community feel and lively culture. It boasts low violent crime (1.16 per 1,000 residents) and moderate property crime (4.87 per 1,000) and is overall safe during the day and night. For kids, walking to school is very convenient, as streets are well-paved sidewalks and safety initiatives. With an active downtown, arts community, and safe, well-lit streets, Montclair is suitable for both families and those who want an active social life.

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5. Princeton

• Safety: Low property crime rates.
• Safety Score: 9.7/10
• Cost of Living: High.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,800/month
• Average Home Price: $900,000
• Healthcare: Princeton Medical Center is nearby.
• Climate: Pleasant year-round.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Ivy League charm, vibrant downtown.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Academic environment and historic charm.
• Great For: Academics, families.

Princeton is a lively, historic town with a high walkability, safety, and community lifestyle. Violent crime is minimal at 0.66 per 1,000 inhabitants, although property crime is slightly higher than average. The town encourages walking and cycling, particularly for children, through school programs. With a rich cultural life and well-lit, pedestrian-friendly streets, Princeton is relatively safe to walk at night and has a good balance of education, nightlife, and security.

6. Tenafly

• Safety: Low violent crime.
• Safety Score: 9.5/10
• Cost of Living: Above average.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,400/month
• Average Home Price: $850,000
• Healthcare: Access to Englewood Health.
• Climate: Four seasons.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Excellent school outdoor spaces.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Quiet, family-friendly community.
• Great For: Families, professionals.

Tenafly is a suburban town that is safe and family-oriented. The rate of violent crime is 6.7, much lower than the national average of 22.7. The rate of property crime is 14.6, lower than the national average of 35.4. Walkability in the town is supported by programs such as “Walk On Wednesdays,” where families are encouraged to walk to school. All these contribute to a secure place for children walking to school.

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7. Summit

• Safety: Minimal crime.
• Safety Score: 9.6/10
• Cost of Living: High.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,500/month
• Average Home Price: $850,000
• Healthcare: Overlook Medical Center.
• Climate: Pleasant summers, cold winters.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Charming downtown, excellent schools.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Excellent for commuters to NYC.
• Great For: Commuters, families.

Summit is a city located in Union County with a population of around 22,700. It has a crime rate 60% less than the national average, with violent crime at 18 per 100,000 individuals and property crime at 922 per 100,000 individuals, making it a secure area to reside in. The city is very pedestrian-friendly, and kids can walk to school without fear, assisted by neighborhood safety programs. Summit provides a family-oriented atmosphere with high-quality schools and community services.

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8. Madison

• Safety: Low crime rates.
• Safety Score: 9.3/10
• Cost of Living: Above average.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,200/month
• Average Home Price: $750,000
• Healthcare: Proximity to Morristown Medical Center.
• Climate: Mild winters, warm summers.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Quaint downtown, cultural events.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Vibrant community with excellent schools.
• Great For: Families, professionals.

Madison, Wisconsin, is a lively city with a rich cultural heritage and schools. Safe Routes to School initiatives have encouraged walking and cycling among students. Property crime is more prevalent than the national average, with a rate of 23.82 per 1,000 people. Most neighborhoods are walkable, but it’s best to be aware of certain areas and take precautions while walking at night.

9. Cranford

• Safety: Low property crime.
• Safety Score: 9.4/10
• Cost of Living: Moderate.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $1,900/month
• Average Home Price: $550,000
• Healthcare: Access to RWJ University Hospital.
• Climate: Pleasant year-round.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Great schools, family-friendly parks.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Quiet, suburban atmosphere.
• Great For: Families, retirees.

Cranford, New Jersey, is a traditional township with a strong sense of community and a highly walkable landscape. The violent crime rate is significantly low, at 0.76 offenses per 1,000 people, while property crime is at 9.84 per 1,000, consistent with national averages.

The township actively encourages walking and biking, particularly for kids, through Safe Routes to School programs and has 13 full-time school crossing guards. Brightly lit streets and high community participation ensure Cranford’s safety for evening walks, providing a harmonious lifestyle with an emphasis on safety and community participation.

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10. Westfield

• Safety: Excellent safety record.
• Safety Score: 9.7/10
• Cost of Living: High.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,500/month
• Average Home Price: $900,000
• Healthcare: Nearby RWJ Rahway Hospital.
• Climate: Mild winters, warm summers.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Excellent schools and a charming downtown.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Perfect for raising a family.
• Great For: Families, professionals.

​Westfield, New Jersey, is a historic town celebrated for its vibrant community and high walkability. The violent crime rate is notably low, at 0.16 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at 8.64 per 1,000, both significantly below national averages. The town actively promotes walking and biking, especially for children, through Safe Routes to School programs, with all six elementary schools achieving Gold-level certification. Well-lit streets and active community engagement ensure safety for evening walks, offering a safe and vibrant lifestyle that emphasizes security and community participation. ​

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11. Wyckoff

• Safety: Known for its very low crime rates and close-knit community.
• Safety Score: 9.6/10
• Cost of Living: High.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,300/month
• Average Home Price: $700,000
• Healthcare: Nearby Valley Hospital offers excellent healthcare.
• Climate: Mild winters and warm summers.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Great schools, local farms, and a family-oriented atmosphere.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Renowned for its welcoming community and family-friendly events.
• Great For: Families, retirees.

Wyckoff, New Jersey, is a suburban township known for its strong community spirit and exceptionally safe environment. The violent crime rate is just 0.23 incidents per 1,000 residents, and property crime is 5.16 per 1,000—both well below national averages. The township encourages walking and biking, especially for children, through the New Jersey Safe Routes to School program. Well-maintained, well-lit streets and active local involvement make Wyckoff safe and inviting, even after dark.

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12. Closter

• Safety: Extremely low crime rates.
• Safety Score: 9.5/10
• Cost of Living: Above average.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,400/month
• Average Home Price: $800,000
• Healthcare: Close proximity to Englewood Health.
• Climate: Pleasant summers and mild winters.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Family-oriented town with excellent schools and parks.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Perfect mix of safety and small-town charm.
• Great For: Families, nature lovers.

Closter, New Jersey, blends quiet residential living with a focus on everyday safety. Crime rates are low, with violent incidents at just 0.23 per 1,000 people and property crimes at 11.24 per 1,000. The town takes part in the state’s Safe Routes to School program, helping students get to class on foot or by bike. With maintained sidewalks and good lighting, Closter is walkable and feels secure, even after dark.

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13. Millburn

• Safety: Consistently ranked among the safest places in NJ.
• Safety Score: 9.7/10
• Cost of Living: High.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,800/month
• Average Home Price: $900,000
• Healthcare: Access to RWJ Barnabas Health facilities.
• Climate: Four seasons with pleasant springs and summers.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Top-rated schools, cultural venues, and vibrant downtown.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Offers a luxurious lifestyle with exceptional safety.
• Great For: Families, professionals.

Millburn, New Jersey, is a well-organized suburban town with a strong focus on safety and accessibility. Violent crime is very low at just 0.02 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime sits at 22.53 per 1,000. Millburn actively promotes safe, healthy, and sustainable travel options for students by partnering with New Jersey’s Safe Routes to School program, an initiative focused on improving infrastructure, increasing safety awareness, and encouraging walking and biking to school. The township supports these goals with well maintained sidewalks, consistent lighting, making most neighborhoods comfortable for walking, even after dark.

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14. Mendham

• Safety: Extremely low crime rates and a tranquil environment.
• Safety Score: 9.8/10
• Cost of Living: Above average.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,100/month
• Average Home Price: $750,000
• Healthcare: Access to Morristown Medical Center.
• Climate: Four distinct seasons.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Beautiful parks, hiking trails, and excellent schools.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Perfect for those seeking peace and quiet in a safe setting.
• Great For: Nature lovers, retirees.

Mendham, New Jersey, is a residential township with low reported crime rates. Violent crime is approximately 0.93 incidents per 1,000 residents, and property crime is around 6.0 per 1,000 both below national averages. The township is part of New Jersey’s Safe Routes to School program, supporting safer walking and biking for students. These factors contribute to a generally safe environment, especially for families with school-age children.

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15. Glen Rock

• Safety: Strong community engagement and minimal crime.
• Safety Score: 9.5/10
• Cost of Living: Above average.
• Average Rent (One-Bedroom): $2,300/month
• Average Home Price: $700,000
• Healthcare: Convenient access to Valley Hospital.
• Climate: Mild winters, warm summers.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly activities.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Quiet suburban life with easy access to NYC.
• Great For: Families, commuters. 

​Glen Rock is a suburban area that is recognized for its safety and active community initiatives. The violent crime rate is notably low, with approximately 0.17 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at about 7.12 per 1,000 residents, both figures being below national averages.

The borough has been acknowledged for its commitment to pedestrian safety, with its crossing guards receiving the Safe Routes to School Silver Award. These factors contribute to Glen Rock’s reputation as a secure and family-friendly environment.​

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Conclusion

The safest neighborhoods in New Jersey reflect this state’s continued steadfast commitment to safety and community. In the above-listed towns, there are differences in keeping crime low and collaboration with the community. 

Residents of these areas benefit from strong neighborhood ties, well-organized safety initiatives, and local governments that place a priority on peace of mind. In return, these neighborhoods provide a safe and secure setting to enhance the standard of living by having available amenities, great schools, and good temperature conditions. 

New Jersey hosts numerous safe and vibrant communities that can serve the purpose for various families, professionals, or retirees. This way, when you opt for one of the secure towns, you’re investing in a place that harmoniously embodies safety and community. It truly makes the Garden State a special place to be home.

FAQs for Safe Areas of New Jersey to Stay

What city in New Jersey has the highest crime rate?

Some of New Jersey’s urban centers, such as Camden, have long had higher crime rates. But these numbers often refer to pockets and don’t speak to overall safety in the suburbs or improvement in recent years.

What township is the safest in New Jersey?

There are towns ranked as the safest in Chatham, Ridgewood, and Princeton, that are low crime areas with significant law enforcement activity and community engagement activities.

Is New Jersey safe to live in?

Yes, New Jersey has many neighborhoods and towns safe to live with low crime levels. With towns having active community policing and more community involvement, people can experience a safe home environment.

What are the safest neighborhoods in New Jersey to commute to NYC?

Ridgewood, Summit, and Montclair are three very safe choices to commute from. These neighborhoods also offer the best access to public transportation for working in New York City.

Where is one likely to obtain the best possible crime statistics of neighborhoods in New Jersey?

For this question, reliable statistics on criminal activity in NJ neighborhoods can easily be obtained using websites provided by the New Jersey State Police or local Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Programme.