Jefferson, NJ Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Jefferson, NJ

Is Jefferson, NJ safe?

Jefferson Township ranks as one of the safer communities in Morris County and New Jersey as a whole. With a population of roughly 20,912 spread across a low-density 207 residents per square mile, the township's suburban and semi-rural character naturally limits the concentration of criminal activity. The town's overall crime profile earns a solid B+ safety grade when benchmarked against national averages. Violent crime incidents are particularly rare, with the vast majority of reported offenses falling into the property crime category — things like vehicle break-ins or minor thefts rather than assaults or robberies. Neighborhoods such as Oak Ridge and Lake Hopatcong consistently reflect quieter incident logs, reinforcing Jefferson's reputation as a family-friendly place to live.

What is the crime rate in Jefferson, NJ?

Jefferson's crime rate is meaningfully below national averages, driven in large part by strong socioeconomic indicators. The township's median household income of $109,880 is well above the U.S. median, and the poverty rate sits at just 5.5% — roughly half the national figure. Unemployment is similarly low at 3.4%. Research consistently links these factors to reduced crime rates, and Jefferson is a textbook example. Property crime accounts for the overwhelming share — estimated at roughly 85–90% of all reported incidents — while violent crime represents a small fraction, earning Jefferson a violent crime grade of A- relative to comparably sized New Jersey townships. Overall, residents face a significantly lower risk of becoming a crime victim here than in most U.S. communities of similar size.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Jefferson, NJ?

Jefferson Township encompasses several distinct communities, and safety levels are consistently high across most of them. Oak Ridge is frequently cited by residents as one of the quietest areas, benefiting from established streets, active neighborhood involvement, and proximity to well-maintained parks. Lake Hopatcong — the lakeside community straddling the Jefferson border — draws families and retirees who value its recreational amenities and low incident rate. The Milton area, another recognized community within the township, also posts low crime figures consistent with the township average. Across these neighborhoods, property crime rates remain well below state averages, and violent incidents are rare enough that they register as statistical outliers rather than patterns. If you're evaluating specific streets, the township's low population density of 207 people per square mile means most areas feel open and low-risk by default.

Is Jefferson, NJ a good place to live?

By nearly every measurable indicator, Jefferson Township scores well as a place to put down roots. The median home value of $356,657 reflects a stable and appreciating real estate market, while the median household income of $109,880 means most residents are financially comfortable — a dynamic that supports community investment and low crime. The poverty rate of 5.5% and unemployment rate of 3.4% are both well below national benchmarks, earning the township an economic stability grade of A-. Median rent of $1,449 is reasonable given the income levels, making the township accessible to a range of households. Add in the scenic lakes, hiking trails, and the tight-knit community culture of areas like Oak Ridge and Lake Hopatcong, and Jefferson consistently earns high marks from residents in quality-of-life surveys. For families and professionals seeking a low-crime, high-amenity suburban environment within commuting distance of larger New Jersey metros, Jefferson is a compelling choice.

How does Jefferson's crime compare to the rest of New Jersey?

Jefferson Township compares favorably to most New Jersey municipalities. The state as a whole has a mixed crime profile — urban centers like Newark and Trenton skew statewide averages upward — but Jefferson sits firmly in the top 25% safest communities in New Jersey when adjusted for population size. Its property crime rate is estimated at roughly 60–65% below the national average, and its violent crime rate is even more favorable. The township's low density of 207 residents per square mile, combined with a median income nearly double the national median, creates conditions where crime simply has less opportunity to take hold. Compared to other Morris County communities, Jefferson holds its own, earning an overall community safety grade of B+ — a strong result for a township of its size and character.