| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Carteret/100k people | New Jersey/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 407 | n/a (estimate) | 1,576 | 1,645 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 2 | n/a | 7.7 | 2.3 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 5 | n/a | 19.4 | 17.3 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 11 | n/a | 42.6 | 49.3 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 63 | n/a | 243.9 | 148.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 81 | n/a (estimate) | 314 | 218 | 359 |
| Burglary | 41 | n/a | 158.7 | 145.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 245 | n/a | 948.6 | 1,119.4 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 40 | n/a | 154.9 | 162.6 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 326 | n/a (estimate) | 1,262 | 1,427 | 1,760 |

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Carteret crime rate is 25.6% lower than the national average. These incidents are classified into two primary categories: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. Whereas property crimes encompass theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In the case of Carteret, there were 81 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 314 per 100,000 individuals, 12.7% lower than the national average. Additionally, Carteret recorded 326 property crimes, amounting to 1262 per 100,000 residents, 28.3% lower than the U.S. average.
When it comes to violent crimes per 100,000 people, Carteret maintains a rate that is very similar to the national average. With 314 reported violent crimes, it falls in line with the national average of 359. This alignment suggests that Carteret shares a similar crime profile with other cities, highlighting its comparable level of safety within the broader urban landscape.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Carteret residents. Out of the respondents (16 in total), 56% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Carteret were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 44% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
Determining whether Carteret is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Carteret has an overall crime rate that is 26% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 1.12 daily occurrences, comprising 0.22 violent crimes and 0.89 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Carteret as a potential place to establish residency.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Carteret. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Carteret has increased by 34.8%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 107.7%, while property crime has increased by 24%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Carteret.
Carteret has a poverty rate of 12.4, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Carteret crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Carteret has an unemployment rate of 4.1%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Carteret stands at $509,767, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
| Item | Carteret | New Jersey | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 63 | 14,540 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.7 | 5.7 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | New Jersey /100K | National /100K |
| New Jersey | 4,539 | 54 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Matawan, NJ | 9,033 | 0 | 20 | 20 |
| South River, NJ | 16,447 | 49 | 99 | 148 |
| Navesink, NJ | 1,364 | 31 | 200 | 231 |
| New Providence, NJ | 13,898 | 44 | 255 | 299 |
| Mountainside, NJ | 7,074 | 14 | 340 | 354 |
| Helmetta, NJ | 2,287 | 40 | 322 | 362 |
| Madison, NJ | 17,048 | 12 | 409 | 421 |
| Carteret, NJ | 24,081 | 314 | 1,262 | 1,576 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Clayton, NC | 24,066 | 168 | 1,283 | 1,451 |
| Venice, FL | 24,063 | 112 | 596 | 709 |
| Moses Lake, WA | 24,055 | 394 | 4,237 | 4,631 |
| Fish Hawk, FL | 24,122 | 112 | 596 | 709 |
| Watertown, WI | 24,039 | 190 | 1,048 | 1,238 |
| Carteret, NJ | 24,081 | 314 | 1,262 | 1,576 |