Is Browns Mills Safe, Pros and cons of living in Browns Mills
Browns Mills, a community nestled within Pemberton Township, Burlington County, New Jersey, offers a unique blend of rural charm and convenient access to larger metropolitan areas. Its history is rooted in the Pine Barrens, evolving from a mill-centered settlement to a residential hub, notably for military personnel due to its proximity to Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst. This evolution has shaped its character, fostering a laid-back, outdoorsy personality with strong community ties.
The town provides a mix of small businesses, casual dining, and essential services, primarily along Route 530. Residents appreciate the easy access to natural attractions like Mirror Lake and Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, alongside the convenience of nearby healthcare facilities. This combination of natural beauty and practical amenities makes Browns Mills an appealing option for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle without sacrificing accessibility.
Is it Safe to Live in Browns Mills?
Browns Mills presents a complex picture regarding safety, with crime rates that warrant careful consideration. The overall crime rate is reported to be slightly above the national average, with property crimes being a notable concern. Violent crime rates, however, are often cited as being lower than the national average in some reports, though other data suggests a higher incidence than many comparable communities.
When evaluating safety, it’s crucial to look beyond general statistics. Neighborhood-specific crime data can vary significantly, and understanding these local patterns is essential for residents. While some areas within Browns Mills are considered safer, a general awareness of one’s surroundings is always advisable.
Crime Statistics Overview
Browns Mills has a crime rate that is 9% above the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is approximately 1 in 277 per year, which is 5% lower than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). Conversely, the chance of becoming a victim of property crime is 1 in 51 per year, which is 8% higher than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit).
Some analyses place Browns Mills’s crime rate as considerably higher than the national average across all communities, with 12 crimes per one thousand residents (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Browns Mills is 1 in 81 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Relative to New Jersey, Browns Mills has a crime rate that is higher than 64% of the state’s cities and towns of all sizes (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Cost of Living in Browns Mills
The cost of living in Browns Mills is generally considered higher than the national average, influenced significantly by housing expenses. While some sources indicate it’s more expensive than the national average, others suggest it is more affordable than the average city in New Jersey, particularly when considering rent.
For individuals considering a move, understanding these varying reports is key. The overall cost of living can be impacted by factors such as transportation, food, and utilities, which also tend to be higher than the national average in this area.
Housing Costs
The median home price in Browns Mills was around $350,000 as of March 2026, showing a slight increase year-over-year (as reported by Redfin). However, other data indicates a median home value of $203,889 (as reported by Livability.com) and another source states the median home price is $214,100 (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). The median sale price in the 08015 zip code was $330K last month (as reported by Redfin).
Rental prices also vary, with one source reporting an average rent of $2,500 per month for all property types (as reported by Zillow). Another source states the average rent in Browns Mills, NJ is $922 per month as of May 2026, which is 44% lower than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). For a one-bedroom apartment, the average rent is $922 per month, and for a two-bedroom, it is around $994 per month (as reported by Apartments.com).
Income and Employment
The average annual salary in Browns Mills is approximately $49,693 as of late April 2026 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median household income in Browns Mills was reported as $75,867 in 2024 (as reported by Point2Homes), with a median family income of $49,443 (as reported by Wikipedia). For renters, the median household income was $43,068 according to 2022 Census data (as reported by Point2Homes).
The unemployment rate for New Jersey averaged 4.4% in 2023 (as reported by Garden State Initiative). Specific unemployment data for Browns Mills is not readily available, but the broader state and regional statistics provide context.
Major Employers and Job Market
Browns Mills’s job market is influenced by its proximity to larger employment centers and specific local institutions. While not a major industrial hub, it offers opportunities within healthcare, retail, and services, as well as employment related to the nearby Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst.
The Deborah Heart and Lung Center is a significant employer located directly in Browns Mills, providing specialized healthcare services and job opportunities within the community. Additionally, national retail chains and logistics companies represent a portion of the local employment landscape.
Key Employers
The Deborah Heart and Lung Center is a primary employer in Browns Mills (as reported by Zippia). Other notable employers in the area include large retail and service companies such as McDonald’s, UPS, CVS Health, and Dollar Tree (as reported by Indeed.com). The presence of Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst also contributes to local employment, both directly and indirectly through supporting businesses.
The average salary in Browns Mills is around $49,693 annually (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This figure can vary widely depending on the industry and specific role, with some positions like Nuclear Medicine Technologist potentially earning between $60-$70 per hour (as reported by SimplyHired).
Climate and Weather
Browns Mills experiences a climate characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The area has a four-season climate with distinct weather patterns throughout the year.
The temperature typically ranges from 25°F in the winter to 86°F in the summer, rarely falling below 11°F or exceeding 94°F. Rainfall is moderate, with an average annual rainfall of approximately 47 inches, and snowfall averages around 17 inches per year.
Seasonal Temperatures and Precipitation
Summers in Browns Mills are warm, humid, and wet, with daily high temperatures averaging above 77°F from June to September. July is typically the hottest month, with highs around 86°F and lows of 67°F (as reported by Weather Spark). Winters are cold, snowy, and windy, with average daily high temperatures below 50°F from December to March.
January is the coldest month, with lows around 26°F and highs of 41°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The area receives an average of 3.22 inches of rain in December and 2.53 inches in January (as reported by WorldWeatherOnline). The average annual rainfall is approximately 47 inches (as reported by Livability.com).
Education and Schools
Browns Mills is served by the Pemberton Township School District, which provides educational services for elementary, middle, and high school students. The district aims to offer a range of programs and support services for its student population.
School ratings in Browns Mills show a mixed performance, with some schools receiving average to above-average grades, while others are rated lower. Niche.com provides detailed ratings and reviews for the schools serving the Browns Mills area.
School Performance and Ratings
Elementary schools like Endeavour Elementary School receive high ratings, with one source giving it a 5 out of 5 rating (as reported by Niche.com). Howard L. Emmons Elementary School is rated B+ (as reported by Niche.com), and Samuel T. Busansky is rated C+ (as reported by Niche.com).
Middle schools in the area include Marcus Newcomb Middle School, which has a C overall Niche grade (as reported by Niche.com). Pemberton Township High School, serving grades 9-12, has a rating of 3.33 out of 5 (as reported by Niche.com).
Demographics and Diversity
Browns Mills has a population of approximately 9,672 residents, a decrease from the 2020 Census count (as reported by Census Dots). The community is predominantly White, with significant Black and Hispanic populations, and smaller percentages of Asian, Multiracial, and Native American residents.
While Browns Mills is considered more diverse than some neighboring areas, it is less diverse than New Jersey overall. The demographic makeup has seen shifts since the 2020 Census, with declines noted in the Black and Hispanic populations.
Population Composition
The population of Browns Mills is approximately 61.7% White, 13.3% Black, 11.9% Hispanic, 7.5% Multiracial, and 5.5% Asian (as reported by Census Dots). The total population has decreased since the 2020 Census, with current estimates around 9,672 (as reported by Census Dots).
The median age in Browns Mills is 40.7 years, with a slightly higher median age for females at 44 years and males at 36.3 years (as reported by World Population Review). The community has a higher percentage of residents over 65 compared to some other age groups, with 14.2% of the population aged 65 or older (as reported by Wikipedia).
Pros and Cons of Living in Browns Mills
Browns Mills offers a lifestyle that appeals to those seeking a connection with nature and a quieter pace of life. Its proximity to outdoor recreational areas and a more rural atmosphere are significant draws for many residents.
However, the community also faces challenges, including a higher-than-average cost of living and crime rates that require attention. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone considering a move to Browns Mills.
Advantages of Browns Mills
One of the primary advantages of Browns Mills is its access to natural beauty and outdoor activities. Residents can easily enjoy Mirror Lake, Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, and other recreational areas within the Pine Barrens (as reported by Pine Barrens Community). The community offers a rural feel, which many find appealing for its tranquility.
Furthermore, Browns Mills is ranked among places with a lower cost of living within New Jersey, despite overall higher costs compared to the national average (as reported by Niche.com). The presence of Deborah Heart and Lung Center provides local employment and healthcare services.
Disadvantages of Browns Mills
A significant disadvantage is the cost of living, which is generally higher than the national average (as reported by Salary.com). Housing costs, in particular, contribute to this higher expense.
Crime rates are another concern, with some data indicating that Browns Mills has a higher crime rate than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). While specific neighborhood safety can vary, this is a factor for potential residents to consider.