| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Highland Park/100k people | New Jersey/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 209 | n/a (estimate) | 1,370 | 1,645 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.3 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 4 | n/a | 26.2 | 17.3 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 3 | n/a | 19.7 | 49.3 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 16 | n/a | 104.8 | 148.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 23 | n/a (estimate) | 151 | 218 | 359 |
| Burglary | 17 | n/a | 111.4 | 145.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 161 | n/a | 1,055.1 | 1,119.4 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 8 | n/a | 52.4 | 162.6 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 186 | n/a (estimate) | 1,219 | 1,427 | 1,760 |
Crime is typically categorized into two main types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. Based on the most recent report, the Highland Park crime rate is lower than the national average by 35.4%. Specifically, there were 23 violent crimes in Highland Park, equivalent to 151 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 58%. Furthermore, Highland Park recorded 186 property crimes, amounting to 1219 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 30.8%.
In the most recently reported crime year, Highland Park registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Highland Park residents. Out of the respondents (8 in total), 75% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Highland Park were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 25% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
Determining whether Highland Park 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, Highland Park has an overall crime rate that is 35% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.57 daily occurrences, comprising 0.06 violent crimes and 0.51 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Highland Park as a potential place to establish residency.
Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Highland Park crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Highland Park has increased by 35.7% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 360% and property crime has increased by 24.8%.
In Highland Park, 93.9% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, whereas the national average stands at 83%. The educational makeup of any city can exert a significant influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of educational attainment are associated with reduced crime rates, as they furnish individuals with improved employment prospects and viable alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, communities characterized by lower educational achievement often grapple with higher crime rates, as limited opportunities may drive individuals towards criminal behavior.
High cost of living can lead to economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When people struggle to make ends meet due to high housing costs, healthcare expenses, or other basic necessities, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. On the flipside, cities that have a lower cost of living, could see a reduced crime rate. In Highland Park, the cost of living is 28.3% higher than the national average.
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 Highland Park stands at $642,232, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
| Item | Highland Park | New Jersey | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 33 | 14,540 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.3 | 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 |
| Ten Mile Run, NJ | 1,864 | 31 | 200 | 231 |
| Princeton Junction, NJ | 2,052 | 31 | 200 | 231 |
| Peapack and Gladstone, NJ | 2,646 | 34 | 224 | 258 |
| Cranbury, NJ | 2,281 | 34 | 224 | 258 |
| New Providence, NJ | 13,898 | 44 | 255 | 299 |
| Highland Park, NJ | 14,239 | 151 | 1,219 | 1,370 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Glenn Dale, MD | 14,245 | 284 | 1,385 | 1,668 |
| Halawa, HI | 14,247 | 134 | 1,199 | 1,333 |
| Lincoln, IL | 14,250 | 169 | 1,014 | 1,183 |
| King City, CA | 14,253 | 291 | 687 | 978 |
| Bexley, OH | 14,254 | 121 | 2,412 | 2,533 |
| Highland Park, NJ | 14,239 | 151 | 1,219 | 1,370 |
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