Perth Amboy, NJ Crime Map

Perth Amboy Crime Map: Safety and Statistics for This Historic NJ City

Introduction to Perth Amboy's Safety Landscape

Nestled along the Raritan Bay in Middlesex County, Perth Amboy, New Jersey, is a city steeped in history and cultural diversity. With a population of 51,589, this urban hub forms part of the sprawling New York-Newark-Jersey City metro area, offering residents a unique blend of small-city charm and big-city proximity. But how safe is Perth Amboy? If you're searching for a reliable "Perth Amboy crime map" or wondering about the "Perth Amboy crime rate," you've come to the right place. Our comprehensive analysis and interactive tools provide the insights you need to understand safety in this dynamic community.

Perth Amboy's overall crime score stands at 0.291, earning it a safety grade of B+, which indicates a relatively safe environment compared to many urban areas. However, crime levels vary across the city's 33 analyzed blocks, with safety scores ranging from a near-perfect 0.04 in the safest zones to 0.7 in areas with higher crime activity. The crime grade distribution paints an encouraging picture: 45.5% of the city earns an A grade (safest), 27.3% a B grade (safe), 15.2% a C grade (average), and just 12.1% a D grade (below average). Notably, no parts of the city fall into the F grade category for high crime. Let's dive deeper into what these numbers mean for residents and visitors, and explore our interactive Perth Amboy crime map for a closer look.

Understanding Crime in Perth Amboy

When evaluating "crime in Perth Amboy," it's essential to break down the types of incidents that shape the city's safety profile. The overall crime index for Perth Amboy is 135 (with 100 being the national average), suggesting that crime rates are moderately above the typical U.S. city. This figure splits into a violent crime index of approximately 112 and a property crime index of around 115, both slightly elevated compared to national benchmarks.

Specific crime types stand out as more prevalent here. Larceny and theft, vehicle theft, assault, and robbery occur at rates above the national average, indicating areas of concern for residents. Property crimes, in particular, tend to drive the overall crime index, though violent incidents also contribute to the numbers. Across the city, safety levels fluctuate significantly, with nearly half of Perth Amboy boasting top-tier safety grades while a smaller portion grapples with more frequent incidents. This uneven distribution underscores the importance of exploring localized data through tools like our Perth Amboy crime map.

Compared to other urban centers in the broader metro region, Perth Amboy holds its own as a relatively safe place to live, though it doesn't match the lowest crime rates found in some suburban enclaves. Its proximity to larger cities with higher crime indices likely influences local patterns, as does its dense population of 4,272 people per square mile. Understanding these dynamics helps paint a clearer picture of what "is Perth Amboy safe" truly means for different parts of the city.

Factors Affecting Safety in Perth Amboy

Economic Influences

Economic conditions often play a significant role in shaping crime trends, and Perth Amboy is no exception. With a median household income of $54,188, the city falls below the national average, and nearly 19.7% of residents live below the poverty line. Unemployment sits at 6.7%, higher than many comparable areas, while labor force participation is 63%. These figures suggest economic stressors that can correlate with property crimes like theft and vehicle break-ins, which are notably above average here. However, 23% of households earn over $100,000 annually, reflecting a mix of income levels that contributes to the city's diverse safety landscape.

Population Density and Urban Layout

As a compact urban area with a high population density, Perth Amboy's layout influences how crime manifests. Crowded environments can sometimes lead to higher rates of certain offenses, such as robbery or assault, particularly in busier zones. At the same time, the city's smaller size compared to nearby urban giants allows for tighter-knit communities in many areas, which can act as a buffer against crime. The variation in safety scores across the city likely ties to differences in density and urban development patterns, something our interactive map helps visualize.

Historical and Cultural Context

Perth Amboy's rich history as one of New Jersey's oldest cities, dating back to its colonial roots, adds layers to its modern safety profile. Once a bustling industrial and shipping hub, the city has faced economic shifts over the decades, transitioning from manufacturing to a more service-oriented economy. This evolution has left pockets of economic disparity, which often align with crime trends. Additionally, the city's cultural diversity—reflected in its vibrant community events and historic landmarks—fosters a strong sense of identity that can enhance safety through community engagement, though challenges remain in balancing growth with public security.

Living in Perth Amboy: Lifestyle and Costs

For those considering a move or simply curious about "Perth Amboy safety," understanding the broader living conditions is key. The cost of living here is notably lower than the national average, with an overall index of 74 (where 100 is the U.S. baseline). Housing costs score a 76, food a 75, healthcare a 70, transportation a 74, and utilities a 75, making Perth Amboy an affordable option within an otherwise expensive metro area. This affordability draws a diverse population, with a median age of 35 and an average family size of 3.5.

The housing market reflects this affordability, though with challenges. The median home value is $271,177, and only 31% of residents own their homes, with many opting to rent at a median cost of $1,387 per month. Rent burden is high, consuming 40% of income for many households, which can add financial strain. Demographically, 38% of households are married, 15% of adults hold a college degree, and the average commute time is 27 minutes—reasonable for a city tied to a major metro hub. Veterans make up 2.3% of the population, adding to the community's diverse fabric.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

Perth Amboy's climate is typical of the Mid-Atlantic region, with a wide temperature range from a winter low of 24°F in January to a summer high of 85°F in July, averaging between 45°F and 62°F annually. The city sees 48 inches of rainfall and 27 inches of snowfall each year, preparing residents for all four seasons. However, natural disaster risks are worth noting, particularly hurricanes, with a risk index of 117 (above the national average of 100). While not directly tied to crime, environmental factors like severe weather can impact safety planning and community resilience, something to keep in mind when assessing "Perth Amboy NJ crime" alongside livability.

Using Our Interactive Perth Amboy Crime Map

Curious about specific safety trends in different parts of the city? Our interactive Perth Amboy crime map is your go-to resource for detailed, block-by-block insights. Covering 33 distinct areas, the map displays crime scores ranging from 0.04 (exceptionally safe) to 0.7 (higher risk), alongside safety grades from A to D. These grades are color-coded for easy interpretation: green for the safest zones (A and B grades), yellow for average safety (C grade), and red for below-average areas (D grade). This visual tool helps you see at a glance where crime risks are lower or higher, empowering you to make informed decisions about where to live, work, or visit.

Unlike static reports, our map lets you zoom in on specific zones, explore crime types like theft or assault, and understand how safety varies across the city. Whether you're a resident looking to assess your surroundings or a newcomer researching "crime in Perth Amboy," this tool offers a user-friendly way to dig into the data. Take a moment to explore the map now and see how safety trends align with your areas of interest.

Safety Tips for Perth Amboy Residents and Visitors

While Perth Amboy earns a solid B+ safety grade overall, staying aware of local crime patterns can enhance your security. Given the city's above-average rates of larceny, vehicle theft, assault, and robbery, consider these practical tips:

• Secure Your Property: Always lock vehicles and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, as vehicle theft is a noted issue. Use sturdy locks on homes and invest in outdoor lighting to deter break-ins.
• Stay Vigilant in Busy Areas: With robbery rates higher than average, be mindful of your surroundings in crowded or less-lit zones, especially at night. Keep personal belongings close and avoid distractions like headphones when walking alone.
• Community Awareness: Join or form local watch groups to stay informed about safety concerns. Building connections with neighbors can be a powerful deterrent to property crimes.
• Personal Safety: Given the prevalence of assault, trust your instincts and avoid confrontations. Stick to well-traveled routes during late hours and consider carrying a personal safety device if needed.

These precautions, combined with insights from our Perth Amboy crime map, can help you navigate the city with confidence, whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through.

Conclusion: Navigating Safety in Perth Amboy

Perth Amboy, NJ, offers a compelling mix of affordability, history, and urban access, but like any city, its safety profile varies. With an overall crime score of 0.291 and a B+ safety grade, the city is relatively secure, though an overall crime index of 135 highlights areas for caution, particularly around theft, vehicle crimes, assault, and robbery. Safety grades span from A (45.5% of the city) to D (12.1%), showcasing a diverse landscape that demands localized awareness. Economic challenges, dense urban living, and historical shifts all shape "Perth Amboy crime statistics," making tools like our interactive map essential for understanding the full picture.

Whether you're asking "is Perth Amboy safe" or searching for a detailed "Perth Amboy crime rate" breakdown, our resources are here to help. Dive into our Perth Amboy crime map today to explore safety trends across the city's 33 blocks, uncover specific crime types, and make informed choices about living or visiting. Safety starts with knowledge—take the next step now and see what the data reveals about this historic New Jersey gem.