New Jersey, home to the famous Jersey Shore, is a small state with a big personality. Known as the Garden State, New Jersey is the birthplace of a number of firsts, including being where the first submarine was built, the first pro baseball and basketball games were played and the first drive-in movie theater was opened.
But besides its colorful history, New Jersey also offers its residents a safe place to call home, as evidenced by its ranking as the fourth safest state in America according to recent FBI data. If you’re looking to move to a secure area full of historic charm, the Garden State might be just for you. Check out our list of the top 10 safest cities in New Jersey, and find the best New Jersey cities for retirees.
1. New Hanover
- Population:7,504
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 7.5%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 7.1%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
100% Below National Crime Rate
New Hanover has been crowned the safest city in New Jersey on account of its ultra low violent crime rate. The township also boasts one of the lowest property crime rates in the Garden State. Along with being super safe, the area comes with a dense suburban atmosphere that makes it a great spot for families. If the peaceful life is what you’re after, look no further than New Hanover.
2. Matawan
- Population:8,864
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 6.7%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 13%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
96% Below National Crime Rate
Just a few miles from the famous Jersey Shore lies Matawan, New Jersey’s second safest city. Established in the 1600s by Dutch settlers, Matawan offers a variety of fun activities, especially for lovers of the outdoors. Whether you want to explore the deliciously named Cheesequake State Park or splash around at the nearby beach, Matawan is the perfect place to safely enjoy the wonders of nature.
3. Chesterfield
- Population:7,567
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 6.9%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 10.2%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
93% Below National Crime Rate
Next on the list is Chesterfield, a quaint township positioned halfway between Philadelphia and New York City. Due to its prime location, residents can easily spend the day in eithermetropolisand still come home to a quiet area with a rural atmosphere and plenty of history. Chesterfield also features quality public schools, which, when combined with its low crime rate, makes it a prime choice for families.
4. Tewksbury
- Population:5,825
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 6.4%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 11.6%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
81% Below National Crime Rate
Tewksbury is a charming township located within the New York Metropolitan Area. While the real estate here is on the more expensive side, the great schools and tranquil ambience justify the higher price tag. Tewksbury also has incredible scenery, perfect for those who are enchanted by the countryside. The township offers all kinds of outdoor recreational experiences, including area golf courses and the annual Tewksbury Harvest Festival.
5. Mendham
- Population:5,757
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 6.9%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 9.2%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
81% Below National Crime Rate
If you’re searching for a secure and scenic place to call home, Mendham might be just the spot for you. While homes in this township come at a higher price, the serenity and historic charm that define the area make the money well worth it. For a taste of colonial New Jersey, visit Mendham’s famed Black Horse Tavern & Pub.
6. North Caldwell
- Population:6,716
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 7%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 11.3%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
92% Below National Crime Rate
With average home prices landing upward of $700,000, living in North Caldwell is surely one of the more premium options on the list. However, this New York City suburb offers a wonderful rural lifestyle perfect for families. As for recreation, North Caldwell is home to the picturesque Green Brook Country Club.
7. Montvale
- Population:8,729
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 6.3%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 12.2%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
91% Below National Crime Rate
At the border of New Jersey and New York lies our seventh safest city, Montvale. This suburban area, like many others on this list, has no lack of entertainment in the surrounding area with multiple golf courses, shopping centers and even nearby New York City. If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot with a glowing reputation, Montvale is the way to go.
8. Norwood
- Population:5,836
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 7.2%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 8.5%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
90% Below National Crime Rate
Next up is Norwood, located at the upper northeastern edge of New Jersey near the Hudson River. Established by Dutch settlers, the town takes its name from its location, which were described as the North-Woods. Nature lovers will be thrilled with the nearby Palisades Interstate Park, area country clubs and more. Plus, the Big Apple itself is less than an hour away!
9. Chester
- Population:7,809
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 7.3%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 11.6%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
86% Below National Crime Rate
If you’re on the hunt for small town charm and lots of outdoor activities, Chester is an option that surely fits the bill. The township is considered one of the highest-income communities in all of New Jersey, meaning real estate in the area is on the pricier side. However, the highly rated schools and sense of security are worth every penny for families.
10. Upper Saddle River
- Population:8,330
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 6.7%
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 12.2%
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
88% Below National Crime Rate
Rounding off the list is Upper Saddle River, which lies just under the border dividing New Jersey and New York. This area got its start as a small farming town in the 1700s and has since maintained its historical appeal with attractions like the Saddle River Valley Cultural Center and the Hopper-Goetschius house and museum. With an outstanding school system and low crime rates, families in search of rural serenity will find a new place to call home in Upper Saddle River.
Other New Jersey Resources
Best Suburbs in Middlesex County, New Jersey
Ready to move to Middlesex County? Read our relocation guide
Top 10 State Parks in New Jersey
The Healthiest States to Live In
New Jersey’s 10 Best Counties to Live In
How to Build a House in New Jersey
The Most Affordable Cities in New Jersey
Your Guide to Closing Costs in New Jersey
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in New Jersey
The 10 Best Places to Retire in New Jersey
Katherine West
Katherine West is a writer for NewHomeSource.com and HomLuv.com, where she contributes articles related to home and lifestyle. Her absolute favorite topic to write about is interior design. She is also a former media intern for Builders Digital Experience (BDX). Katherine attends Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, where she is pursuing a degree in psychology with a minor in mass communications. In her free time, she enjoys creating digital art, reading and anything involving music and film.
