List of Top 10 Safest Places to Live in NJ(2023)

New Jersey may be a small state, but it offers access to two exceptional cities, beaches, and mountains – a lot to explore and enjoy. Although some people may have concerns about crime rates, there are still plenty of safe cities and towns to reside in within the state. In this article, we will present a list of the top ten safest places to call home in New Jersey.

10 Safest Places to Live in NJ

1. 1. Wanaque
   2. Hasbrouck Heights
   3. River Vale
   4. New Providence 
   5. Berkeley Heights 
   6. Sparta
   7. Chatham Township
   8. Bernards
   9. Monroe Township
   10. Ringwood

1. Wanaque 

Wanaque, situated in the semi-mountainous part of northern New Jersey, is considered the safest place to live in the state. With a population of only 11,317, Wanaque’s crime rate is remarkably low, 97% below the national average. The town offers some fantastic hiking trails and points of interest, including the Wanaque Reservoir, which provides excellent watersport opportunities. Despite its small-town feel, Wanaque is conveniently located just a short drive away from New York City and other upstate New York destinations. The median home price in Wanaque is $416,425.

2. Hasbrouck Heights

Hasbrouck Heights, situated just a quick drive from Manhattan, is one of the safest towns in NJ. It’s a suburban paradise located outside the city, with a population of 12,125 and a crime rate that is 90% lower than the national average. Hasbrouck Heights is frequently recognized as one of the safest and best places to live in New Jersey. The township is renowned for its classic New Jersey diners, such as the Bendix Diner. Currently, the median home price in Hasbrouck Heights is $581,276.

3. River Vale

Located in Bergen County, just a short drive away from New York City, River Vale is not only known for its spacious suburban living but also for being one of the safest cities in New Jersey. With a population of 9,909, the crime rate in this town is 90% below the national average. River Vale provides an ideal living experience for those who want to be within commuting distance of Manhattan. Additionally, the town is situated near the Lake Tappan reservoir, which offers excellent opportunities for watersports. River Vale also boasts a golf and country club adjacent to the lake, making it a perfect place for leisure and relaxation.

4. New Providence 

Located along the Passaic River, New Providence is a borough in Union County that offers a safe haven for its 13,650 residents. With a crime rate that is significantly lower than the national average by 83%, it’s no wonder why New Providence is considered one of the safest NJ towns near NYC. This town has several attractions, including The Salt Box Museum, the Village Shopping Center, and the former Bell Telephone Laboratories. If you’re looking to settle down in New Providence, the median home price is currently $776,940.

5. Berkeley Heights 

Berkeley Heights, located in Union County, NJ, is a peaceful township that provides a serene small-town lifestyle. The population of Berkeley Heights is 13,285, and it boasts a remarkably low crime rate that is 82% below the national average. Situated within the Raritan Valley region of New Jersey, Berkeley Heights is surrounded by several rivers and picturesque rural landscapes. Housing options in Berkeley Heights include a diverse mix of condos, new apartments, and single-family homes. At present, the median home price in Berkeley Heights stands at $745,526.

6. Sparta 

Nestled in the hilly northwestern region of New Jersey, Sparta is a quaint and charming small town that boasts of safety. Being one of the safest towns in the state, Sparta offers an idyllic and picturesque setting. The town is located on the banks of Lake Mohawk, which provides opportunities for various water activities such as boating and fishing. In addition to the lake, Sparta is also home to several hiking trails and charming stores. The town’s rich history is rooted in the Susquehanna and Western Railroad, with many historic landmarks still present to this day. With a population of nearly 10,000, Sparta has a crime rate that is 63% lower than the national average, making it a secure place to live. Currently, the median home price in Sparta is $534,527.

7. Chatham Township

Chatham Township is a serene suburban community situated in Morris County, New Jersey, and is considered one of the safest places to live in the state. This town is famous for its picturesque streets and a wide array of excellent restaurants. It has consistently been ranked as one of the top towns in New Jersey, and its safety is one of the reasons for its popularity. Chatham Township is conveniently located near Manhattan, and it is also in close proximity to natural landmarks such as the Great Swamp Natural Wildlife Refuge and the Morristown National Historic Park. Although the current median home price in Chatham Township is relatively high at $1,029,152, the town is a perfect place to settle down if you’re looking for a peaceful and secure community.

8. Bernards

Bernards Township, located in Somerset County, NJ, is renowned for its peaceful streets and colonial charm, making it one of the safest cities in the area. Situated within the picturesque Raritan Valley, Bernards boasts numerous scenic rural drives and historic stone buildings. Over the years, this small community has been home to some of New Jersey’s most prominent artists, actors, athletes, and politicians. Notable local landmarks include the Boudinot-Southard Farmstead, Brick Academy, and the historic Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church.

9. Monroe Township

Located in the central part of New Jersey’s Middlesex County, Monroe Township is a secure and tranquil suburban community surrounded by farmland and large rivers, including the Raritan River. With a population of 48,594, Monroe Township boasts a crime rate that is 41% below the national average, making it an ideal place to call home. As a historic New Jersey community, Monroe Township proudly showcases many buildings, like the Holmes-Tollman House, which are listed on the US National Register of Historic Places. At present, the median home price in Monroe Township is $503,120.

10. Ringwood

Nestled within the picturesque hills of northern New Jersey, Ringwood is a small town that boasts a wide range of outdoor activities, making it a sought-after place to live. With its close proximity to various lakes and hiking trails, such as the Monksville Reservoir, Greenwood Lake, Sterling Forest, and the Abram S. Hewett State Forest, residents can enjoy the great outdoors and lead a peaceful lifestyle. Ringwood’s natural beauty draws many artists and photographers to the area. Moreover, with a current median home price of $476,273, Ringwood is considered to be one of the safest places to reside in New Jersey.

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