A+
58%
Total crime NAT. AVG.
79%
Violent crime NAT. AVG.
53%
Property crime NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: This data reflects the 2024 calendar year and was released from the FBI in September, 2025; this is the most current data available.
StatisticReportedincidents/100k peopleSurf City/100k peopleNew Jersey/100k peopleNational/100k people
Total crime12n/a (estimate)9001,6452,119
Murder0n/a0.02.35.0
Rape0n/a0.017.337.5
Robbery0n/a0.049.360.6
Assault1n/a75.0148.8256.1
Violent crime1n/a (estimate)75218359
Burglary0n/a0.0145.3229.2
Theft10n/a750.21,119.41,272.1
Vehicle theft1n/a75.0162.6258.8
Property crime11n/a (estimate)8251,4271,760

Surf City crime map

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The Surf City crime map by CrimeoMeter provides a detailed overview of all crimes in Surf City as reported by the local law enforcement agencies. Based on the color coded legend above, the crime map outlines the areas with lower crime compared to the areas with higher crime. The Surf City crime heat map offers insight into the total crimes on a block group level. Please note that the red areas on the Surf City crime map does not always indicate that it is a dangerous area for its residents. Areas on the heat map could be inflated if they are located in high traffic areas like airports, sports centers or large parks. Other areas on the heat map could see increased crime rates if they are located in major tourist areas like the downtown core.
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An Overview of Crime Rates in Surf City, NJ

The Surf City crime rates are 57.5% lower than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 1 violent crimes in Surf City (75 per 100,000 people), which is 79.1% lower than the national average and there were a total of 11 property crimes (825 per 100,000 residents) which is 53.1% lower than average.

Surf City distinguishes itself with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the U.S., reporting a mere 75 violent crimes per 100,000 people. This achievement firmly establishes Surf City among the safest cities in the nation, rendering it an alluring choice for those seeking a new place to call home.

In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, Surf City reported a murder rate of 0. This could indicate that it is a very safe place to live, but also serves as an inspiration to other urban areas striving for safer communities. Examining the full crime report will provide a complete overview of all crimes - violent and property.

Is Surf City a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Surf City a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Surf City crime rate is 58% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.03 crimes per day - 0 violent crimes and 0.03 property crimes.

Has Crime in Surf City Increased Since Last Year?

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 Surf City 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 Surf City has decreased by 40% year over year. Violent crime has didn't change by 0% and property crime has decreased by 42.1%.

Potential Causes for Crime in Surf City

Surf City has a population density of 1754.3 people per square mile, while with the national average is 90.6 people per square mile. Cities characterized by high population density are frequently larger urban centers offering diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality may be accentuated, resulting in the coexistence of poverty and affluence. Such economic disparities can contribute to elevated property crimes and on occasion, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density generally record lower Surf City crime rates.

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 Surf City, the cost of living is 72.7% 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 Surf City stands at $1,319,701, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.

Compare Surf City, NJ Crime

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      Crime Quick Facts

      • Surf City crime rates are 58% lower than the national average
      • Violent crimes in Surf City are 79% lower than the national average
      • In Surf City you have a 1 in 112 chance of becoming a victim of crime
      • Surf City is safer than 72% of the cities in the United States
      • Year over year crime in Surf City has decreased by 9%

      Surf City, NJ Crime Quiz

         

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        Daily Crime In Surf City (per 100,000 people)

        How Safe is Surf City (higher is better)

        Chance of Being A Victim of Crime in Surf City

        The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Surf City is 1 in 1333
        The chance of being a victim of property crime in Surf City is 1 in 122
        The chance of being a victim of crime in Surf City is 1 in 112

        Year Over Year Crime In Surf City (per 100,000 people)

        Surf City police department

        Item Surf City New Jersey National
        Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians)1014,540558,732
        Police officers & civilians /1000 residents8.25.73.3
        There are a total of 10 Surf City police officers. This results in 8.2 police officers per 1,000 residents which is 45.4% greater than the New Jersey average and 152.7% greater than the National average.

        Sex offenders in New Jersey

        State Total offenders New Jersey /100K National /100K
        New Jersey4,53954266
        There are a total of 4,539 sex offenders in New Jersey. This yields a total of 54 sex offenders in New Jersey per 100,000 residents which is 80% less than the national average.

        Nearby Cities With Low Crime Rates

        City Population Violent crime/100k people Property crime/100k people Total crime/100k people
        Ship Bottom, NJ1,09631200231
        North Beach Haven, NJ2,27534224258
        Manahawkin, NJ2,01972474547
        Waretown, NJ2,60283545628
        Barnegat Light, NJ47188577665
        Harvey Cedars, NJ46188577665
        Beach Haven West, NJ4,47690587677
        Surf City, NJ1,30575825900

        Cities with similar population

        City Population Violent crime/100k people Property crime/100k people Total crime/100k people
        Keewatin, MN1,305135842977
        Millbourne, PA1,3057512,3373,088
        Maxwell, CA1,3042411,0301,271
        Camp Hill, AL1,306177768945
        Alto, GA1,3040299299
        Surf City, NJ1,30575825900
        Source: The Surf City, NJ crime data displayed above is derived from the FBI's uniform crime reports for the year of 2024. The crime report encompasses more than 18,000 city and state law enforcement agencies reporting data on property and violent crimes. The uniform crime reports program represents approximately 309 million American residents, which results in 98% coverage of metropolitan statistical areas.