Is Kinnelon Safe, Pros and cons of living in Kinnelon
Kinnelon, a borough nestled in Morris County, New Jersey, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to metropolitan areas. This community is known for its scenic landscapes, including parks and trails, making it an attractive option for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Its history is rich, dating back to the late 17th century with early settlements focused on iron forges and furnaces. The borough’s development was influenced by industries like mining and forest cropping, with a later decline due to the construction of the Morris Canal.
The area’s name has roots in the Kinney family, prominent industrialists who established a significant estate in the late 19th century. This historical backdrop contributes to the unique character of Kinnelon, a place that has evolved while retaining a connection to its past. The borough is recognized as one of the state’s higher-income communities, reflecting its economic stability and desirability.
Is it Safe to Live in Kinnelon?
Kinnelon is considered a very safe place to live, with crime rates significantly below both national and state averages. Analysis of FBI crime data indicates that Kinnelon has a lower crime rate than 83% of communities in New Jersey and is safer than the majority of cities, towns, and villages across America. The chance of becoming a victim of any crime in Kinnelon is approximately 1 in 273, a stark contrast to the national average of 1 in 47.
Specifically, violent crimes such as assault, rape, murder, and robbery occur less frequently in Kinnelon than in most of the country. The violent crime rate is reported as 0 per one thousand inhabitants (FBI UCR data). Property crime also remains below the national average, meaning residents are less likely to experience arson, motor vehicle theft, larceny, or burglary (NeighborhoodScout analysis of FBI crime data).
Violent Crime Statistics
In 2022, Kinnelon reported zero violent crimes, with a violent crime rate of 0 per 100,000 residents (FBI UCR data). This indicates an exceptionally low incidence of violent offenses within the borough. The rarity of these incidents contributes to the overall perception of safety and security for residents.
While national trends show slight fluctuations, Kinnelon has consistently maintained a low profile for violent criminal activity. This safety record is a significant factor for individuals and families considering a move to the area.
Property Crime Statistics
The property crime rate in Kinnelon is also notably low. In 2022, the total number of property crimes was 31, resulting in a property crime rate of 310.53 per 100,000 residents (FBI UCR data). This figure is considerably lower than the national average, suggesting a secure environment for personal property.
NeighborhoodScout’s analysis further supports this, indicating that the property crime rate in Kinnelon is below the national average for all cities and towns. This statistic reassures potential residents about the security of their homes and belongings.
Cost of Living and Housing
The cost of living in Kinnelon, New Jersey, is notably higher than the national average, primarily driven by housing expenses. Overall, Kinnelon’s cost of living is estimated to be 51% higher than the national average (PayScale). This figure reflects higher costs across various categories, including housing, utilities, and transportation.
Housing expenses in Kinnelon are particularly elevated, standing at 167% higher than the national average (PayScale). This trend is also reflected in home prices and rental rates, which are substantially above the national figures. While the cost of living is high, it is important to consider the income levels and economic indicators within the borough.
Housing Costs
The real estate market in Kinnelon is characterized by high median home values. As of March 2026, the median sale price of a home in Kinnelon was approximately $1.2 million (Redfin). This figure has seen an increase of 37.9% compared to the previous year.
The median sale price per square foot in Kinnelon is around $358, which is up 27.4% from the previous year (Redfin). This robust market suggests strong demand and consistent property value appreciation, though it also contributes to the high cost of living.
Rental Prices
Rental prices in Kinnelon also reflect the area’s higher cost of living. As of May 2026, the average rent for an apartment in Kinnelon is $1,870 per month (Apartments.com). This is 14% higher than the national average rent of $1,642 per month.
For specific floor plans, a one-bedroom apartment averages $1,870 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost around $2,742 per month (Apartments.com). In the past year, rent prices have seen a decrease of 21.4%, which may offer some relief to renters.
Affordability and Income
Despite the high housing costs, Kinnelon’s median household income is substantial, which helps to balance affordability. The median household income in Kinnelon is reported to be $187,438 (Census Reporter). This income level is nearly double the median household income for New Jersey and significantly higher than the national average.
The median home value in Kinnelon is $672,261 (Livability.com), and with a median household income of $178,548, the home price-to-income ratio is 4.8, which is slightly lower than the New Jersey average (Livability.com). This suggests that while homes are expensive, they are relatively affordable for the local income levels.
Job Market and Economy
Kinnelon boasts a strong job market with a growing employment sector. The overall employment in Kinnelon grew at a rate of 3.4% from 2023 to 2024, increasing from 5.11k to 5.29k employees (Data USA). This growth indicates a healthy and expanding economy within the borough.
The borough’s economic landscape is supported by a variety of industries and a generally low unemployment rate. The high median household income and per capita income further underscore the economic prosperity of its residents.
Major Employers
Key sectors contributing to employment in Kinnelon include Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, which employ approximately 842 people. The Health Care and Social Assistance sector is also a significant employer, with around 716 individuals working in this field. Additionally, the Retail Trade sector provides jobs for about 633 residents (Data USA).
Other notable employers include large retail chains like Marshalls, Bank of America, Dunkin’, and Stop and Shop Supermarket (Indeed.com). These companies contribute to the diverse employment opportunities available within and around Kinnelon.
Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in Kinnelon is generally low, reflecting a stable job market. While specific recent figures for Kinnelon’s unemployment rate are not consistently available across all sources, broader New Jersey data can provide context. In July 2023, Morris County, where Kinnelon is located, had an unemployment rate of 4.2% (Focus NJ), which is below the state average at that time.
The national unemployment rate in July 2023 was 3.5% (Focus NJ). While Kinnelon’s specific rate may fluctuate, the overall trend in the region suggests a resilient job market.
Average Salary
The average salary in Kinnelon, NJ, is approximately $51,814 per year (ZipRecruiter). However, this figure can vary significantly based on industry and specific job roles. Some popular job titles, such as those in Public Schools, can command salaries substantially higher than this average.
The median wage in Kinnelon is around $50,000 per year, with the 75th percentile reaching approximately $65,500 (ZipRecruiter). These figures align with the borough’s status as a higher-income community.
Climate and Environment
Kinnelon experiences a humid continental climate with hot summers and no dry season, classified as Dfa (National Weather Service). The borough’s location and climate contribute to its natural beauty throughout the year, with distinct seasonal changes.
The weather patterns are typical for the northeastern United States, with moderate temperatures and precipitation. Understanding the climate is essential for residents, especially regarding seasonal activities and potential weather events.
Temperatures
The average annual temperature in Kinnelon is approximately 54.73°F (12.63°C) (National Weather Service). Summers are generally warm, with average high temperatures typically in the low 80s Fahrenheit. Winters are cold, with average low temperatures often dropping below freezing.
For example, daily temperatures can range from a low of around 46°F to a high of 63°F in late spring (National Weather Service). These temperature ranges are characteristic of a four-season climate.
Rainfall and Snowfall
Kinnelon receives an average annual rainfall of about 52 inches (Livability.com). The borough also experiences significant snowfall during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of approximately 33 inches (Livability.com).
The distribution of precipitation is relatively even throughout the year, with no distinct dry season. These conditions support the lush greenery and natural landscapes for which Kinnelon is known.
Education and Demographics
Kinnelon is served by the Kinnelon School District, which consistently ranks among the better school districts in New Jersey. The district is rated an A overall by Niche, with specific strengths in areas like teacher quality and college preparation.
The demographics of Kinnelon show a predominantly White population, with smaller percentages of Asian and Hispanic residents. The median age in Kinnelon is also higher than the national average, indicating a community with a significant number of established residents.
School Ratings
The Kinnelon School District has received an overall rating of 3.83 out of 5 stars on Niche, earning it an “A” grade. It is recognized for having some of the best teachers in New Jersey, ranking 19th out of 358 districts in the state (Niche). The district serves students from Pre-K through 12th grade.
Kinnelon High School itself is rated 3.69 out of 5 stars, and is ranked among the top public high schools in New Jersey. While the district is praised for its academic rigor and supportive environment, some reviews mention a lack of diversity within the student body (Niche).
Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Kinnelon had a population of 9,966 residents (U.S. Census Bureau). The borough is predominantly White, with 84.2% of the population identifying as such (U.S. Census Bureau). Other racial demographics include 6.4% Hispanic, 5.9% Asian, and 2.8% Multiracial.
The median age in Kinnelon is 42.8 years (Census Reporter), which is higher than both the New Jersey and national medians. This suggests a community with a mature population base. The homeownership rate is high, with approximately 93.1% of residents owning their homes (Data USA).