Hackensack, NJ Crime Map

Hackensack Crime Map: Safety and Crime Statistics for Hackensack, NJ

Introduction to Hackensack and Its Safety Landscape

Nestled in Bergen County, just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of New York City, Hackensack, New Jersey, is a vibrant small city with a population of 44,266. Known for its historical significance as a colonial-era settlement and its modern role as a hub for commerce and healthcare in the region, Hackensack offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban accessibility. With a population density of 4,077 residents per square mile, it's a tightly knit community within the sprawling New York-Newark-Jersey City metro area. But how safe is Hackensack? If you're searching for a reliable Hackensack crime map or curious about the Hackensack crime rate, you've come to the right place.

Our data reveals that Hackensack has an overall city average crime score of 0.303, earning it a safety grade of B, which indicates above-average safety compared to other cities. However, safety varies across the city's 38 analyzed blocks, with crime scores ranging from a remarkably safe 0.06 in the most secure areas to 0.78 in areas with higher crime activity. The crime grade distribution shows that 28.9% of the city earns an A (safest), 44.7% a B (safe), 13.2% a C (average), and 13.2% a D (below average), with no areas falling into the F (high crime) category. Let's dive deeper into what these numbers mean for residents and visitors, and explore our interactive Hackensack crime map to get a clearer picture of safety across the city.

Understanding Crime in Hackensack, NJ

When evaluating whether Hackensack is safe, it's essential to look at the types of crime and how they compare to broader benchmarks. Hackensack's overall crime index stands at 133, meaning crime rates are 33% higher than the national average (where 100 represents the baseline). This includes a violent crime index of approximately 128 and a property crime index of around 132, both above the national average. Key crime types that exceed national averages include larceny/theft, burglary, vehicle theft, assault, and robbery.

Property crimes, such as theft and burglary, tend to be more prevalent than violent crimes in Hackensack, reflecting a common trend in urban-suburban areas near major metropolitan centers. However, the risk of violent incidents like assault and robbery remains a concern in certain parts of the city. Safety levels fluctuate significantly depending on where you are, with over 73% of the city falling into the A or B safety grades, indicating that many areas are quite secure. Yet, the 13.2% of areas graded D remind us that caution is still warranted in specific zones. Compared to other cities in the region, Hackensack's crime rates are somewhat elevated, likely due to its proximity to a massive urban hub and the associated spillover of activity.

For a detailed breakdown of where crime is more or less prevalent, our interactive Hackensack crime map offers a block-by-block view of safety grades, helping you understand the nuances of crime in Hackensack without relying on generalized assumptions.

Factors Influencing Safety in Hackensack

Economic Conditions and Crime

Economic factors often play a significant role in shaping a city's safety profile, and Hackensack is no exception. With a median household income of $71,079, the city sits slightly above the national median, and 33% of households earn over $100,000 annually. However, a poverty rate of 12.3% and an unemployment rate of 4.9% suggest that economic disparities exist, which can contribute to property crimes like theft and burglary. A labor force participation rate of 69% indicates a working community, but financial stress for some residents may influence crime trends in less secure areas.

Population Density and Urban Dynamics

Hackensack's population density of over 4,000 people per square mile creates a bustling environment where crime can be more noticeable, especially in zones with high foot traffic or commercial activity. As a commuter city with an average commute time of 31 minutes, often into New York City, transient populations and busy transit hubs can sometimes attract opportunistic crimes like vehicle theft or robbery. The urban-suburban mix means safety can vary dramatically within short distances, a pattern you can explore using our Hackensack crime statistics map.

Historical and Cultural Context

Founded in the 17th century, Hackensack has long been a crossroads of commerce and culture in northern New Jersey. Its role as the county seat of Bergen County and home to major institutions has fostered a strong community identity, but it has also faced challenges typical of cities near large urban centers. Over the decades, economic shifts and suburban sprawl have brought both prosperity and strain, influencing crime patterns. Understanding this historical backdrop helps explain why Hackensack NJ crime rates reflect both local resilience and regional pressures.

Living in Hackensack: Lifestyle and Costs

Beyond safety, what's it like to call Hackensack home? The cost of living here is slightly above the national average, with an overall index of 109 (where 100 is the baseline). Housing costs, indexed at 112, are a significant driver, with a median home value of $300,965 and a homeownership rate of just 34%. For renters, who make up the majority, the median rent is $1,493 per month, consuming about 32% of income for many households. Other costs, like food (106), transportation (106), and utilities (105), align closely with national norms, while healthcare (93) is a relative bargain.

Demographically, Hackensack is a diverse city with a median age of 39 years and an average family size of 3. Only 36% of households are married, reflecting a mix of singles, young professionals, and families. About 39% of residents are college-educated, and 3.5% are veterans, painting a picture of a community with varied backgrounds and needs. For those considering a move or just visiting, understanding both the Hackensack crime rate and lifestyle factors is key, and our crime map can help you assess safety in relation to where you might live or work.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

Hackensack experiences a typical northeastern climate, with an average temperature range of 44°F to 63°F. Summers peak around 86°F in July, while winters can dip to a chilly 23°F in January. The area sees 49 inches of rain and 27 inches of snowfall annually, so residents are no strangers to shoveling or rainy commutes. One environmental factor to note is the slightly elevated earthquake risk, with an index of 114 compared to the national average of 100. While not a daily concern, it's something to keep in mind for long-term planning. Weather and natural risks can indirectly impact safety, as extreme conditions sometimes correlate with spikes in property crimes during recovery periods.

Using Our Interactive Hackensack Crime Map

If you're wondering, "Is Hackensack safe?" or looking for specific insights into crime in Hackensack, our interactive crime map is your best resource. This tool provides a detailed, block-by-block analysis of safety across the city's 38 analyzed areas, using crime scores ranging from 0.06 to 0.78. Each area is assigned a grade from A (safest) to D (below average), making it easy to interpret at a glance. You can zoom in to see how safety varies across different parts of the city, helping you make informed decisions about where to live, work, or visit.

The map is designed to be user-friendly, with color-coded visuals that instantly convey risk levels. Whether you're a potential resident comparing safety to housing options or a visitor planning a trip, exploring our Hackensack crime map offers clarity on the city's safety landscape. Dive in to uncover patterns and find areas that match your comfort level for security.

Safety Tips for Residents and Visitors in Hackensack

Given Hackensack's crime profile, with property crimes like larceny, burglary, and vehicle theft being more common, along with notable rates of assault and robbery, a few practical safety tips can go a long way. Always secure your belongings, especially in busy or high-traffic areas—don't leave valuables visible in your car, as vehicle theft is a known issue. At home, invest in strong locks and consider a security system to deter burglaries. When out after dark, stick to well-lit areas and travel in groups if possible, as this can reduce the risk of robbery or assault.

Staying aware of your surroundings is crucial, especially in parts of the city where crime scores are higher. Keep personal items close in crowded spots, as petty theft can occur in commercial or transit-heavy zones. For residents, getting to know your local community can also enhance safety—neighbors looking out for each other often act as a natural deterrent to crime. Use our Hackensack safety map to identify areas where extra vigilance might be needed, and tailor your precautions accordingly.

Conclusion: Navigating Safety in Hackensack, NJ

Hackensack, NJ, offers a dynamic mix of history, diversity, and proximity to one of the world's greatest cities, but like any urban-suburban area, it comes with a varied safety profile. With an overall crime score of 0.303 (Grade B) and a crime index of 133, Hackensack experiences higher-than-average crime rates, particularly for property crimes like theft and burglary, as well as violent crimes such as assault and robbery. However, over 73% of the city falls into safe or very safe categories, showing that much of Hackensack provides a secure environment for residents and visitors alike.

Whether you're moving to the area, planning a visit, or simply curious about Hackensack crime statistics, understanding the city's safety landscape is essential. Economic factors, population density, and regional influences all shape crime in Hackensack, but personal awareness and smart choices can significantly enhance your security. For the most comprehensive and up-to-date view of safety, explore our interactive Hackensack crime map to see detailed crime grades across the city. Take control of your safety today—dive into the map and discover where Hackensack shines brightest.