Is Rutherford Safe, Pros and cons of living in Rutherford
Rutherford, New Jersey, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility, making it an attractive place for many. This borough in Bergen County provides a strong sense of community, complemented by its convenient location near New York City. Residents appreciate the town’s charming atmosphere, well-regarded school system, and diverse amenities.
The decision to relocate often hinges on a variety of factors, including safety, affordability, and quality of life. Rutherford presents a compelling case for potential residents by offering a balanced lifestyle. This guide explores key aspects of living in Rutherford, from its safety profile and economic landscape to its educational opportunities and demographic makeup.
Is it Safe to Live in Rutherford?
Rutherford generally experiences low crime rates, particularly for violent offenses. In 2023, there were only 7 reported violent crimes, resulting in a rate of 37.50 per 100,000 residents (as reported by the FBI UCR). Property crime rates are also notably lower than national averages, with approximately 804 property crimes per 100,000 residents in 2024.
The overall crime rate in Rutherford is about 9 per 1,000 residents, which is close to the national average for all communities. Your chance of becoming a victim of any crime in Rutherford is about 1 in 116, based on FBI crime data analysis. The town’s crime rate is lower than approximately 52% of New Jersey communities, and significantly lower than average for similarly sized cities across America.
Housing and Cost of Living
Housing Market Trends
The housing market in Rutherford is considered somewhat competitive, with a median sale price of $797,500 in March 2026, showing a year-over-year increase of 15.6% (as reported by Redfin). Zillow indicates that the average home value in Rutherford was $738,683 as of March 31, 2026, reflecting a 5.9% increase over the past year. The median listing price for homes in Rutherford was approximately $678,944 in March 2026.
Homes in Rutherford typically sell after about 101 days on the market, a slight increase from the previous year. Buyers should be aware that the market can be competitive, with homes sometimes selling for around the list price. Rutherford is currently considered a buyer’s market as of March 2026, suggesting that the supply of homes may be slightly greater than the demand.
Rental Market
For those considering renting, the average rent in Rutherford is approximately $2,481 per month as of March 31, 2026 (according to Zillow). This is higher than the national average rent of $1,910. Other data suggests the average rent in Rutherford is $2,349 per month, with a price range of $1,495 to $5,500. Rent prices have seen a slight increase year-over-year, with a 3.03% growth reported.
There are typically around 33 to 40 rental listings available in Rutherford, indicating a steady demand in the rental market. Month-over-month, rent prices have experienced a slight decrease, with one report showing a $151 drop in the last month.
Overall Cost of Living
The overall cost of living in Rutherford is approximately 22% higher than the national average (as reported by Redfin). This is influenced by factors such as housing, utilities, and transportation. For instance, housing expenses in East Rutherford (a neighboring area) are significantly higher than the national average.
While specific cost of living data for Rutherford itself is not exhaustively detailed across all categories, the higher-than-average housing costs significantly contribute to the overall expense. This higher cost of living should be considered by potential residents when evaluating their budget.
Job Market and Economy
Major Employers
Rutherford’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers. Among the notable companies are Funai Electric, which operates in the consumer electronics sector, and RWJBarnabas Health, a significant healthcare provider. SGS US Testing Co Inc. is also listed as a major employer, specializing in inspection, verification, testing, and certification services.
The Rutherford Chamber of Commerce serves as a hub for local businesses, fostering community engagement and economic development. Many smaller businesses and service providers also contribute to the local employment landscape, offering a variety of job opportunities within the borough.
Average Salary and Unemployment
As of April 2026, the average annual salary in Rutherford is reported to be $62,583, which equates to about $30.09 per hour (according to ZipRecruiter). Other sources suggest a higher average annual salary of around $93,323, with a typical range from $82,076 to $105,849. Salaries can vary significantly based on job role, experience, and other factors.
The national unemployment rate was 4.3% in April 2026 (as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics). Specific unemployment data for Rutherford is not readily available, but it is generally understood to be influenced by broader regional and national economic trends.
Demographics and Workforce
Rutherford’s population is approximately 18,528 residents, with a median age of 40 years (according to Point2Homes). The racial makeup is diverse, with White individuals forming the largest group at 64.2%, followed by Asian (12.4%), and those identifying with two or more races (15%). Hispanic or Latino residents constitute a significant portion of the population as well.
The workforce in Rutherford is predominantly white-collar, with 88.7% of residents employed in such roles. A high percentage, 88.7%, of the workforce comprises white-collar professionals, with 11.3% in blue-collar positions. A substantial 94.5% of Rutherford’s residents are U.S. citizens (as of 2024).
Climate and Environment
Temperature and Precipitation
Rutherford experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit. Winters are cold, with average low temperatures dropping into the 20s Fahrenheit.
The borough receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with rainfall distributed fairly evenly across the seasons. Snowfall is common during the winter months, contributing to the seasonal changes in the local landscape.
Seasonal Characteristics
Spring and autumn in Rutherford are characterized by mild temperatures and pleasant weather, making them ideal times for outdoor activities. The changing foliage in the fall offers scenic beauty, while the blooming flowers in spring bring a vibrant atmosphere to the town.
Summers can be humid, with occasional thunderstorms, while winters are typically cold and snowy. Residents often engage in seasonal activities, from enjoying local parks and outdoor events in warmer months to participating in winter sports or indoor community gatherings when it’s cold.
Education and Community
School District Performance
The Rutherford School District is highly regarded, earning an overall ‘A’ grade from Niche. It serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, with a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1. State test scores indicate that 62% of students are proficient in math and 75% in reading.
Rutherford High School also receives strong ratings, with Niche ranking it highly for its teachers and overall academic environment within New Jersey and the New York City area. The district is recognized for having some of the best teachers in New Jersey.
Demographics and Lifestyle
Rutherford’s population consists of approximately 19,426 residents, with a median age of 40 years. The gender distribution is slightly skewed towards males, with 107.8 males for every 100 females. The median household income in Rutherford is $143,153, with a poverty rate of 5.51%.
The community is described as having a mix of families and individuals, with 69.2% of households being family units. Rutherford is noted for being walkable, with many nearby restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, contributing to a vibrant local lifestyle.