Is Asbury Park Safe, Pros and cons of living in Asbury Park

Asbury Park, a vibrant beachfront city on the Jersey Shore, offers a unique blend of artistic energy, diverse culture, and a lively music scene. Its iconic boardwalk, historic architecture, and thriving downtown area attract visitors and residents alike. The city is also known for its strong sense of community and its commitment to revitalization.

This coastal gem provides a dynamic living experience, with a rich history and a forward-looking approach to development. Asbury Park’s appeal lies in its creative spirit, its culinary offerings, and its proximity to major metropolitan areas, making it a desirable location for those seeking a coastal lifestyle with urban conveniences.

Is it Safe to Live in Asbury Park?

Asbury Park faces significant challenges regarding crime rates. The overall crime rate is estimated to be 578% above the national average, with a safety grade of F (as reported by DoorProfit). Residents have a 1 in 40 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime annually, and a 1 in 7 chance of being a victim of property crime.

These statistics are considerably higher than national averages, and Asbury Park has a higher crime rate than 100% of major U.S. cities (as reported by DoorProfit). While the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting program notes a decrease in reported crimes in prior years, recent data indicates elevated risk levels. It is crucial for residents and visitors to exercise strong precautions and be aware of neighborhood-specific safety variations (as reported by DoorProfit, FBI Uniform Crime Reporting).

Violent Crime Statistics

The estimated violent crime rate in Asbury Park stands at 2,475.1 per 100,000 residents, which is 550% higher than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). This translates to a substantial risk for residents, with specific rates for murder at 35.2 per 100,000 (605% above average), aggravated assault at 1,789.3 per 100,000 (567% above average), and robbery at 456.8 per 100,000 (518% above average) (as reported by DoorProfit).

These figures highlight a serious concern for public safety within the city. While some reports indicate a decrease in overall crime in previous years (as reported by the Asbury Park Police Department, FBI Uniform Crime Report), the current statistics present a challenging picture for those considering a move to Asbury Park.

Property Crime Statistics

Property crime also remains a significant issue in Asbury Park. The estimated property crime rate is 13,570.4 per 100,000 residents, which is 641% higher than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). This means residents face a substantial risk of experiencing property-related offenses.

NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime data indicates that one’s chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Asbury Park is one in 20. The property crime rate is 39 per one thousand population, with a chance of becoming a victim of property crime being one in 26 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).

Neighborhood Safety Variations

Despite the overall high crime rates, safety can vary significantly by neighborhood within Asbury Park. Some areas, such as Cold Indian Springs, have received high safety grades, while others, like West Asbury Park, are rated much lower (as reported by DoorProfit). Understanding these localized differences is essential for anyone considering living in or visiting the city.

This variation underscores the importance of detailed research into specific neighborhoods. While the city as a whole presents a high-risk environment, certain pockets may offer a comparatively safer living experience. This information is critical for making informed decisions about relocation or travel within Asbury Park (as reported by DoorProfit).

Cost of Living in Asbury Park

Asbury Park’s cost of living is notably higher than the national average, driven primarily by housing expenses. The overall cost of living is estimated to be 18% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale) and 41% higher than the U.S. national average (as reported by Salary.com).

This elevated cost impacts various aspects of daily life, from housing and utilities to food and transportation. While some categories may be closer to the national average, the combined effect makes Asbury Park a more expensive place to reside compared to many other U.S. cities (as reported by PayScale, Salary.com).

Housing Costs

Housing is a significant factor in Asbury Park’s cost of living. The median home price in Asbury Park was $727,000 in March 2026, showing a substantial year-over-year increase (as reported by Redfin). The median listing price for a home in Asbury Park is $959,000 (as reported by Realtor.com® Research).

Rental prices are also high, with the average rent for all property types being $3,300 per month (as reported by Zillow). The median rent across all bedroom counts and property types is $3,100 as of May 2026 (as reported by Zumper). These figures indicate a competitive and expensive housing market for both buyers and renters.

Daily Expenses

Beyond housing, daily expenses in Asbury Park also contribute to the higher cost of living. Food expenses run 6.5% above the national average (as reported by Salary.com). Utility costs are also higher, with energy expenses being 3.5% above average and transportation costs 14.4% higher than the U.S. average (as reported by Salary.com).

Healthcare costs in Asbury Park are 17% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale). These increased costs for essential goods and services mean that residents need a higher income to maintain a comparable standard of living to the national average (as reported by Salary.com, PayScale).

Job Market and Economy

Asbury Park’s job market is influenced by its location within the New York metropolitan area and its growing status as a cultural hub. The city is actively working to support economic development and connect residents with employment opportunities.

The average annual salary in Asbury Park is approximately $70,000, or $33.65 per hour (as reported by Zippia). However, other sources indicate a lower average annual salary of $48,579 as of May 2026 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). These figures suggest a range of earning potentials depending on the industry and specific role.

Major Employers

Asbury Park’s economy is supported by a variety of employers, ranging from retail and hospitality to healthcare and local government. While a comprehensive list of major employers is not readily available, prominent companies in the area include major retail chains like Walmart and Target, as well as hospitality businesses and healthcare facilities (as reported by Indeed.com, Lensa).

The City of Asbury Park’s Workforce Development program is dedicated to connecting residents with these and other employers, aiming to foster economic growth and ensure a skilled workforce for local businesses (as reported by the City of Asbury Park).

Unemployment Rate

The unemployment rate in the Asbury Park area has seen fluctuations, particularly in recent years. Monmouth County’s unemployment rate was 6.3% in April, a decrease from previous months but still reflecting economic challenges (as reported by Patch, Bureau of Labor Statistics). The overall employment rate in Asbury Park is reported at 94.66% (as reported by BestNeighborhood.org).

Nationally, unemployment rates have been improving, though the labor market has not fully recovered from recent economic events. New Jersey’s unemployment rate has also experienced changes, with a reported rate of 4.90% in recent data (as reported by YCharts, Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Climate and Weather

Asbury Park experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, windy winters. The city’s coastal location influences its weather patterns, with proximity to the Atlantic Ocean moderating temperatures to some extent.

Overall, the climate is temperate, with distinct seasons. Residents can expect a range of weather conditions throughout the year, from hot and humid summer days to cold winter spells with potential snowfall.

Seasonal Temperatures

Summers in Asbury Park are warm, typically lasting from June to September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 75°F. July is the hottest month, with average highs around 83°F and lows of 68°F (as reported by Weather Spark). Winters are cold, from December to March, with average daily high temperatures below 49°F.

January is the coldest month, with average low temperatures of 28°F and highs of 41°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The temperature variation throughout the year means residents experience a full cycle of seasonal weather.

Precipitation and Rainfall

Asbury Park receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year. The average annual rainfall is approximately 49 inches (as reported by Livability.com). Rainfall is distributed relatively evenly across the months, though some periods may experience higher amounts.

Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of about 28 inches (as reported by Livability.com). The combination of rain and snow contributes to the region’s overall precipitation levels.

Education in Asbury Park

The Asbury Park School District serves the educational needs of the city’s students. The district offers a range of programs for students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

However, school ratings for the district indicate areas for improvement. Niche.com provides overall grades and specific subject proficiency data for the schools within the district.

School District Performance

The Asbury Park School District has an overall Niche grade of C-minus, with a rating of 3.67 out of 5 based on numerous reviews (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that 10% of students are proficient in math and 15% in reading (as reported by Niche).

Asbury Park High School specifically has an overall grade of C, with a rating of 3.76 out of 5 (as reported by Niche). State test scores for the high school show that 22% of students are at least proficient in math and 42% in reading (as reported by Niche).

Student-Teacher Ratio

The student-teacher ratio within the Asbury Park School District is approximately 11 to 1 for grades PK-12 (as reported by Niche). At Asbury Park High School, the student-teacher ratio is 10 to 1 for grades 9-12 (as reported by Niche).

These ratios provide an indication of class sizes and the potential for individualized attention. While diversity in the district receives a B+ grade (as reported by Niche), academic performance metrics suggest room for growth.

Demographics of Asbury Park

Asbury Park is a diverse city with a population that reflects a variety of racial and ethnic backgrounds. The city’s demographics have evolved over time, contributing to its unique cultural landscape.

The population has seen some fluctuations in recent census counts. Understanding the demographic makeup is key to grasping the community’s composition and social dynamics.

Population and Age Distribution

As of the most recent census data, Asbury Park has a population of approximately 15,188 residents (as reported by Wikipedia). The median age in Asbury Park is around 38 years (as reported by Livability.com, World Population Review).

The age distribution shows about 12.9% of the population are children under 15, with a significant portion of adults between 25 and 44 making up 38.8% of residents (as reported by Livability.com). Around 12.5% of the population is aged 65 or older.

Racial and Ethnic Makeup

Asbury Park is a racially diverse city. According to recent data, the population is approximately 40.1% White, 29.7% Black or African American, and 25.5% Hispanic (as reported by Census Dots, World Population Review). There are also smaller percentages of residents identifying as Asian, Multiracial, or Native American/Other.

This diverse makeup contributes to the city’s cultural richness. The proportion of White residents is lower than in New Jersey overall, while the city is considered more diverse than the state average (as reported by Census Dots).

Pros and Cons of Living in Asbury Park

Asbury Park offers a vibrant and engaging lifestyle, but potential residents should also consider the drawbacks. The city’s appeal is multifaceted, drawing people with its arts scene and coastal charm, while also presenting challenges related to safety and cost of living.

Weighing these factors is crucial for anyone contemplating a move to this unique Jersey Shore destination.

Pros

Asbury Park boasts a thriving arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, performance venues, and a rich musical history. The city’s beachfront location provides residents with access to recreational activities and scenic views. Its diverse population and dynamic cultural offerings contribute to a lively and engaging community atmosphere.

The ongoing revitalization efforts have also led to improvements in infrastructure and an increase in amenities, including a growing culinary scene. Proximity to major transportation routes and New York City offers convenience for commuters and those seeking access to a larger urban center.

Cons

The most significant concern for Asbury Park is its high crime rate, which is considerably above the national average (as reported by DoorProfit, NeighborhoodScout). This elevated risk requires residents to be vigilant and take safety precautions.

The cost of living, particularly housing, is also a considerable factor, being higher than both the national and state averages (as reported by PayScale, Salary.com). Additionally, school district performance ratings indicate that educational outcomes may not meet the expectations found in higher-rated districts (as reported by Niche).