North Bergen, NJ Crime Map

North Bergen Crime Map: Safety and Crime Rates in North Bergen, NJ

Introduction to Crime in North Bergen

North Bergen, New Jersey, a bustling township in Hudson County with a population of 61,181, is a vibrant community just across the river from Manhattan. Known for its diverse population and proximity to the New York City metro area, North Bergen offers a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. With a population density of 4,599 people per square mile, it's a compact yet dynamic place to live, work, and explore. But how safe is North Bergen? If you're searching for a reliable North Bergen crime map or curious about the North Bergen crime rate, you've come to the right place.

Our data reveals that North Bergen has an overall city average crime score of 0.134, earning it a safety grade of A, which indicates a very safe environment compared to other cities. This score is derived from an analysis of 38 city blocks, providing a comprehensive look at crime trends across the township. Breaking down the crime grade distribution, an impressive 76.3% of the city falls into Grade A (safest), 21.1% is Grade B (safe), and just 2.6% is Grade C (average). Notably, no areas fall into the below-average or high-crime categories, painting a picture of a largely secure community. To get a closer look at specific zones, explore our interactive North Bergen crime map for detailed insights.

Understanding Crime in North Bergen

When assessing whether North Bergen is safe, it's essential to look at both violent and property crime patterns. The township's overall crime index stands at 86, meaning crime levels are below the national average of 100. This trend holds for both violent and property crime, with each category hovering around an index of 88, again below the national benchmark. However, one area where North Bergen sees slightly elevated activity compared to national averages is vehicle theft. While this doesn't significantly impact the township's overall safety profile, it's something residents and visitors should remain mindful of.

Safety can vary across different parts of the township, even within a relatively small geographic area. Some sections boast exceptionally low crime rates, contributing to the high percentage of A-graded zones, while a small fraction experiences average crime levels. Compared to other areas in the New York-Newark-Jersey City metro region, North Bergen holds up well as a safer option within a densely populated and often high-crime urban corridor. For a granular view of how safety fluctuates block by block, dive into our North Bergen NJ crime map to uncover the specifics.

Factors Affecting Safety in North Bergen

Economic Indicators

Economic conditions often play a significant role in shaping crime rates, and North Bergen's financial landscape offers a mixed picture. The median household income is $66,669, with 31% of households earning over $100,000 annually. However, the poverty rate sits at 11.9%, and unemployment is at 6%, slightly higher than some neighboring areas. With a labor force participation rate of 69%, many residents are actively engaged in the workforce, often commuting to nearby urban centers like Manhattan. These factors suggest a community with economic stability for many, though pockets of financial stress could influence minor crime trends like property offenses.

Population Density and Urban Patterns

With a population density of 4,599 per square mile, North Bergen is a tightly knit urban-suburban hybrid. This density, while fostering a close community feel, can sometimes correlate with higher opportunities for certain crimes, such as vehicle theft. The township's proximity to major highways and public transit hubs also means a constant flow of people, which can impact safety dynamics in busier zones. Still, the data shows that crime remains well below national averages, reflecting effective community resilience.

Historical and Cultural Context

North Bergen has a rich history tied to its strategic location near New York City, serving as a gateway for immigrants and workers over the decades. This diversity is reflected in its cultural fabric, with a strong sense of community that often acts as a natural deterrent to crime. Historically, the township has benefited from its position in Hudson County, balancing urban challenges with suburban stability, which contributes to its favorable safety profile today.

Living in North Bergen

Cost of Living Overview

Living in North Bergen comes with a cost of living index of 97, just below the national average of 100. Housing costs are nearly on par with the national average at an index of 98, while healthcare (90) and utilities (91) are notably affordable. Transportation (95) and food (97) also remain reasonable for a location so close to one of the most expensive cities in the world. This affordability, paired with access to urban amenities, makes North Bergen an attractive option for many.

Housing Market Snapshot

The housing market in North Bergen reflects its desirable location. The median home value is $373,318, with a home ownership rate of 41%. For renters, who make up a significant portion of the population, the median rent is $1,433 per month, though rent burden is high at 33% of income. These figures highlight the challenges of housing affordability for some, even as the township remains more accessible than many nearby areas.

Who Lives in North Bergen?

North Bergen's demographic makeup includes a median age of 40 years and an average family size of 3.4, pointing to a mix of young professionals, families, and older residents. About 46% of households are married, and 30% of the population is college-educated. The average commute time of 35 minutes reflects the township's role as a commuter hub, with many residents traveling to jobs in the greater metro area. Veterans make up 2.1% of the population, adding to the community's diverse character.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

North Bergen experiences a typical Northeast climate, with an average temperature range of 45°F to 61°F. Summers are warm, peaking at around 84°F in July, while winters can be cold, dipping to 24°F in January. The area sees 48 inches of rainfall and 27 inches of snowfall annually, so residents are accustomed to varied weather. However, natural disaster risks are slightly elevated, with hurricane risk at 112 and earthquake risk at 119 compared to a national average of 100. These factors don't directly tie to crime in North Bergen, but they're worth considering for overall safety planning.

Using Our Interactive North Bergen Crime Map

Curious about specific crime trends in different parts of the township? Our interactive North Bergen crime map is your go-to tool for detailed, block-by-block insights. This map visually represents crime grades across the city, from the safest A-rated zones to the few average C-rated spots. Each grade is based on comprehensive data analysis, factoring in both violent and property crime incidents. Simply zoom in to explore how safety varies across the township and use the map's features to understand the North Bergen crime rate in areas of interest. Whether you're planning a move or just visiting, this tool helps you make informed decisions about North Bergen safety.

Interpreting the map is straightforward: green zones indicate the safest areas, while yellow or orange hues signal average safety levels. Remember, even in the safest communities, staying aware of your surroundings is key. Spend some time with the map to get a feel for the township's safety landscape and see why North Bergen scores so highly overall.

Safety Tips and Awareness for North Bergen

While North Bergen is considered very safe with its A-grade crime score, no place is entirely free of risk. Given the data showing vehicle theft as a crime type slightly above the national average, residents and visitors should take extra precautions with their cars. Always lock your vehicle, avoid leaving valuables inside, and park in well-lit, busy areas when possible. Beyond that, general safety practices apply: be mindful of your surroundings, especially in busier or more crowded zones, and secure your home with strong locks and, if possible, a security system.

For those new to the area, it's also helpful to stay informed about local trends through community resources and to build connections with neighbors. While violent crime is low compared to national figures, maintaining awareness can prevent becoming a target of opportunistic property crimes. Use our North Bergen crime statistics map to stay updated on the latest safety patterns and adjust your habits accordingly.

Conclusion: Is North Bergen Safe?

In summary, North Bergen, NJ, stands out as a very safe place to live or visit, with a citywide crime score of 0.134 and an A safety grade. With 76.3% of the township rated as the safest possible category and crime indices for both violent and property offenses below national averages, residents enjoy a secure environment compared to many urban-adjacent areas. While vehicle theft remains a minor concern relative to other crime types, overall crime in North Bergen is well-managed and below typical benchmarks for the region.

Whether you're considering a move, planning a visit, or simply curious about North Bergen safety, our data-driven insights and interactive tools are here to help. Dive into the North Bergen crime map to explore safety grades across the township and gain a deeper understanding of the local landscape. Stay informed, stay aware, and discover why so many find North Bergen to be a welcoming and secure community in the heart of Hudson County.