Is Summit Safe, Pros and cons of living in Summit

Summit, New Jersey, offers a compelling blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility, making it an attractive option for those seeking a well-rounded lifestyle. Nestled in Union County, this city provides a distinct community atmosphere with convenient access to the bustling energy of New York City. Its appeal lies in its picturesque setting, strong community values, and a reputation for providing a high quality of life for its residents.

The town boasts a rich history and a vibrant present, characterized by a well-educated populace and a strong sense of community engagement. From its charming downtown area to its beautiful residential streets, Summit presents a welcoming environment for individuals and families alike. This exploration will delve into the various facets of living in Summit, covering aspects such as safety, cost of living, economic opportunities, climate, education, and the diverse demographic makeup of this desirable New Jersey locale.

Is it Safe to Live in Summit?

Summit, NJ, generally presents a safe environment for its residents. The city has a crime rate that is 63% lower than the national average, with violent crimes being 84% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). Overall, there is a 1 in 127 chance of becoming a victim of crime in Summit. This safety profile is further supported by a crime score of A+ in the 07901 zip code, indicating very low crime compared to regional averages (according to DoorProfit).

While the overall crime rate is low, crime can vary by neighborhood. Residents often consider the southwest part of the city to be the safest, with the chance of being a victim of crime ranging from 1 in 39 in northern neighborhoods to 1 in 91 in the southwest (as reported by Patch). The city’s police department is proactive, conducting numerous motor vehicle stops and responding to a high volume of calls for service, contributing to maintaining public safety (as reported by Patch).

What is the Cost of Living in Summit?

Summit, New Jersey, is recognized as an expensive place to live, with its cost of living significantly higher than both the national and state averages. The overall cost of living in Summit is estimated to be 67% higher than the national average (according to PayScale). Housing expenses are particularly high, being 263% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale).

Monthly expenses for a single person in Summit are approximately $2,688, and for a family of four, they are around $5,872 (as per Salary.com). These costs are driven by soaring housing prices, elevated transportation expenses, and rising food prices, making Summit one of America’s most expensive cities (according to Salary.com). Renting an apartment also reflects this higher cost, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment being $2,263 per month (as reported by Apartments.com).

Housing Costs

The housing market in Summit is characterized by high prices, reflecting its desirability and proximity to major metropolitan areas. The median home value in Summit is approximately $859,733 (as reported by Livability.com). As of March 2026, the median listing home price was $1,612,500 (according to Realtor.com®).

Home prices in Summit are also showing an upward trend, with the average home value increasing by 10.9% over the past year, reaching $1,372,011 as of March 2026 (according to Zillow). The median home price in Summit, NJ, is $1,200,000, which represents a slight decrease of 0.14% compared to the previous year (as reported by Houzeo).

Rental Market

Rental prices in Summit are also considerably higher than the national average. The average rent for an apartment in Summit is $2,263 per month, which is 38% higher than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). This figure reflects a 1.7% increase in rent over the past year, averaging an additional $39 per month.

For those seeking rental accommodations, one-bedroom apartments average around $2,263 per month, while two-bedroom units are closer to $3,001 per month (as per Apartments.com). More recent data indicates the average rent in Summit is $3,000, which is 50% higher than the national average (according to Zillow). Approximately 72% of households in Summit are owner-occupied, while 28% are renter-occupied (as reported by RentCafe).

What is the Job Market Like in Summit?

Summit, New Jersey, offers a robust job market with a diverse range of employment opportunities, particularly for those in high-paying professions. The average annual salary in Summit is $80,569, with most salaries ranging between $60,241 and $99,573 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This median salary is significantly higher than many other areas, reflecting the economic vitality of the region.

Key industries contributing to Summit’s economy include finance, real estate, and healthcare. Major employers in the area include Bristol Myers Squibb, a significant biotechnology company, and Overlook Medical Center, a prominent healthcare facility. The city’s proximity to New York City also provides residents with access to a vast array of job opportunities in sectors such as finance and technology.

Major Employers

Several large companies and institutions are significant employers in and around Summit, contributing to the local economy and providing numerous job opportunities. Bristol Myers Squibb, a major biotechnology company, has a substantial presence in Summit, formerly occupying a campus that previously housed other pharmaceutical giants like Merck & Co. and Novartis (as noted by Wikipedia). Overlook Medical Center is another key employer, serving as a vital healthcare resource for the community.

Other notable companies with a presence or significant operations that impact employment in the Summit area include those in retail and service industries, such as McDonald’s, FedEx, Target, and CVS Health (as listed by Indeed.com). The city also benefits from its proximity to New York City, which offers a wide range of employment options for its residents.

Salaries and Unemployment

The average salary in Summit, NJ, is approximately $80,569 per year, translating to about $38.74 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median household income in Summit was reported as $190,304 in 2024 (according to Point2Homes). This relatively high average salary contributes to the overall cost of living in the area.

Unemployment data for Summit is not as readily available as other metrics. However, the City Health Dashboard indicates that “Unemployment – Current, City-Level” data is not available for Summit, NJ. Despite this, the strong presence of major employers and the town’s desirability suggest a generally stable employment landscape for skilled professionals.

What is the Climate Like in Summit?

Summit, New Jersey, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, offering a varied weather experience throughout the year. Summers are warm, with temperatures typically in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit, while winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping into the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit (as reported by IDcide). The warmest month is July, with average maximum temperatures around 87°F, and the coldest month is January, with average minimum temperatures around 22°F (according to Livability.com and myPerfectWeather).

Precipitation is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year. The annual average precipitation is around 50-51 inches, with July and September often being the wettest months, receiving about 5 inches of rain (as reported by myPerfectWeather and Livability.com). Snowfall is common in the winter, with an average of 25-26 inches annually (according to Livability.com).

Temperatures and Rainfall

Throughout the year, temperatures in Summit fluctuate significantly between the summer and winter months. The hot season generally lasts from late May to mid-September, with daily high temperatures averaging above 76°F, peaking in July. Conversely, the cold season extends from late November to early March, with daily high temperatures typically below 45°F, with January being the coldest month.

Summit receives an average of approximately 50 inches of precipitation annually (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Rainfall is spread across the year, with April and July being among the months with the most rain. Snowfall averages around 25 inches per year, contributing to a winter landscape (according to Livability.com).

What are the Demographics of Summit?

Summit, New Jersey, is a diverse city with a population of approximately 22,705 residents (as per Point2Homes and Niche). The city has a median age of around 41.8 years, indicating a population that includes a significant number of adults in their prime working and family-rearing years (as reported by World Population Review). The racial composition is predominantly White, with a notable presence of Asian and Hispanic or Latino residents.

The population is well-educated, with a high percentage of residents holding bachelor’s degrees or higher. This demographic profile contributes to a dynamic and engaged community. A substantial portion of residents are foreign-born, adding to the cultural richness of the city, with nearly 19% of residents born outside the United States (as reported by Data USA).

Population and Diversity

Summit is home to a population of roughly 22,705 individuals (according to Data USA). The city’s demographics show a White population making up about 69.1% of residents, followed by Asian residents at approximately 7.3%, and Hispanic or Latino residents at around 13.1% (as per Point2Homes). This diverse ethnic makeup contributes to the vibrant community fabric of Summit.

Citizenship rates are high, with about 90.6% of residents being U.S. citizens, which is slightly lower than the national average (as reported by Data USA). The foreign-born population stands at approximately 18.7%, indicating a significant international presence within the community (according to Data USA).

What are the Schools Like in Summit?

Summit, New Jersey, is highly regarded for its excellent public school system, consistently ranking among the top in the state. The Summit Public School District serves approximately 3,664 students across 7 public schools, with a student-teacher ratio of about 13:1 (as reported by Niche and SchoolDigger). The district boasts high academic achievement, with strong proficiency scores in math and reading.

Many of Summit’s public schools receive high ratings, with several elementary schools and Summit High School recognized for their academic excellence. This commitment to education makes Summit a desirable location for families prioritizing quality schooling for their children.

School Ratings and Performance

The public schools in Summit, NJ, demonstrate exceptional academic performance, with average math proficiency scores of 69% and reading proficiency scores of 81% (as noted by Niche). These scores significantly surpass the New Jersey state averages. The schools in Summit have an average ranking of 10/10, placing them in the top 10% of New Jersey public schools (according to Niche).

Top-ranked schools include Lincoln-Hubbard Elementary School, Franklin Elementary School, and Washington Elementary School, all of which have received high marks for their educational quality (as reported by Niche). Summit High School also performs well, ranking highly among state high schools and maintaining a strong four-year graduation rate (as indicated by SchoolDigger).

Pros and Cons of Living in Summit

Summit, New Jersey, offers a highly desirable living environment, characterized by excellent schools, a safe community, and convenient access to New York City. The town’s strong educational system is a major draw for families, with highly-rated public schools providing a solid foundation for students. The low crime rates further enhance its appeal as a safe and secure place to reside.

However, the high cost of living, particularly for housing and daily expenses, can be a significant deterrent for some. The median home prices and average rents are substantially above the national average, requiring a higher income to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Despite these financial considerations, the overall quality of life, community atmosphere, and amenities make Summit a sought-after location for many.