Is Hackensack Safe, Pros and cons of living in Hackensack
Hackensack, a vibrant city in Bergen County, New Jersey, offers a dynamic living experience with a blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. Situated just a short distance from New York City, it provides residents with accessible opportunities for employment, entertainment, and cultural enrichment. The city is known for its diverse population and a strong sense of community, making it an attractive place for individuals and families alike.
As a historically significant area, Hackensack has evolved into a modern hub while retaining its unique character. Its strategic location, coupled with a variety of amenities, contributes to its appeal as a place to call home. This article delves into the key aspects of living in Hackensack, covering safety, cost of living, employment, climate, education, and demographics, to provide a comprehensive overview for prospective residents.
Is it Safe to Live in Hackensack?
Hackensack’s crime rates present a mixed picture, with some categories falling below national averages while others are higher. The city recorded a total of 1,767 violent crimes and 3,950 property crimes over a recent five-year period (2019-2024) (as reported by Crime Explorer). The average violent crime rate is 17.5% below the national average, but the property crime rate is 25.8% above the national average (as reported by Crime Explorer).
Further analysis indicates that while Hackensack’s overall crime rate is higher than the national average, it is not among the communities with the very highest rates (according to NeighborhoodScout). When compared to similar-sized communities, Hackensack’s crime rate is higher than average (according to NeighborhoodScout). The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Hackensack is approximately 1 in 406, while the chance of being a victim of property crime is about 1 in 50 (according to NeighborhoodScout).
What is the Cost of Living in Hackensack?
The cost of living in Hackensack, New Jersey, is approximately 25% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale). This figure is influenced by various expense categories, with housing being a significant factor. Housing expenses in Hackensack are notably higher, standing at 65% above the national average (as reported by PayScale).
Utilities and transportation costs are also slightly above the national average, with utilities being 4% higher and transportation expenses also 4% higher (as reported by PayScale). Groceries in Hackensack are priced about 7% higher than the national average, and healthcare costs are approximately 11% higher (as reported by PayScale). These figures suggest that while Hackensack offers many amenities, residents should be prepared for a higher cost of living compared to the national standard.
Housing Costs
The Hackensack housing market shows a median home value of $465,836 as of March 31, 2026, which has seen a 3.4% increase over the past year (as reported by Zillow). The median list price for a home in Hackensack was $357,167 as of March 31, 2026 (as reported by Zillow). The market is described as somewhat competitive, with homes selling in an average of 78 days (as reported by Redfin).
Rental prices in Hackensack are also on the higher side. The average rent for all property types is $2,350 per month, with a slight month-over-month decrease of $35 and a year-over-year decrease of $66 (as reported by Zillow). However, other sources indicate the average rent to be $2,192 per month as of May 2026, which is 34% higher than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com).
What is the Job Market Like in Hackensack?
Hackensack’s job market is influenced by its proximity to major economic centers and its own growing industries. The average annual salary in Hackensack is approximately $63,041, which breaks down to about $30.31 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Salaries can vary widely, with the 25th percentile earning around $41,918 and the 75th percentile earning up to $82,356 annually (as reported by ZipRecruiter).
The unemployment rate in Hackensack was reported at 4.90%, which is lower than the long-term average of 6.48% (as reported by YCharts). This suggests a relatively stable employment landscape for residents. Major employers in the area contribute to the local economy and provide diverse employment opportunities for the workforce.
Major Employers
Hackensack Medical Center is a significant employer in the region, with an estimated average annual compensation package of around $110,403 (as reported by Salary.com). Other key employers contributing to Hackensack’s economy include various healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and service industries, reflecting the city’s diverse economic base.
What is the Climate in Hackensack?
Hackensack experiences a climate characterized by distinct seasons, offering a varied weather experience throughout the year. Summers are warm, humid, and wet, while winters are notably cold with significant snowfall (as reported by Google Search). The temperature typically ranges from 25°F to 86°F annually, rarely dropping below 11°F or exceeding 93°F (as reported by Google Search).
The city sees rainfall distributed throughout the year, with April experiencing the most rain, averaging 3.7 inches, and February having the least, with an average of 2.1 inches (as reported by Google Search). The climate is generally partly cloudy year-round, with September being the clearest month and February being the cloudiest (as reported by Google Search).
Temperature and Precipitation
During the hot season, which typically spans from late May to mid-September, average daily high temperatures exceed 76°F. July is the hottest month, with average highs around 85°F and lows of 68°F. The cold season, from early December to early March, sees average daily high temperatures below 48°F. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 26°F and highs of 39°F (as reported by Google Search).
Monthly rainfall averages are highest in April (3.7 inches) and lowest in February (2.1 inches) (as reported by Google Search). Snowfall is common during the winter months, contributing to the cold and snowy character of Hackensack’s winters.
What are the Schools Like in Hackensack?
Hackensack offers a range of educational opportunities for its residents, with the Hackensack School District serving the public school needs of the community. Hackensack High School is rated as an above-average public school, with a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1 (as reported by Niche). According to state test scores, 19% of students are proficient in math and 50% are proficient in reading (as reported by Niche).
The Hackensack School District as a whole receives a “B minus” overall Niche grade. Within the district, Hackensack Middle School is rated with a “C” grade (as reported by Niche). The district is noted for its diversity, ranking among the top school districts in New Jersey for this characteristic (as reported by Niche).
School Performance and Diversity
Hackensack High School has received a B overall grade from Niche, reflecting its academic and extracurricular offerings. The school is ranked among the top public high schools in New Jersey, with specific recognition for its athletes and diversity (as reported by Niche). The district as a whole is ranked highly for diversity within New Jersey and the New York City area (as reported by Niche).
While Hackensack High School shows strong performance in some areas, state test scores indicate room for improvement in math proficiency for its students. The Hackensack School District is also recognized for its diverse student population, which is a significant aspect of its educational environment (as reported by Niche).
What are the Demographics of Hackensack?
Hackensack is a city with a diverse population, reflecting a rich cultural tapestry. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 46,030 residents (as reported by Wikipedia). The median age in Hackensack is 40.1 years, with 17.5% of residents under 18 and 16.1% aged 65 or older (as reported by Wikipedia).
The racial composition of Hackensack is varied, with significant Hispanic, White, Black, and Asian populations. As of the 2020 census, Hispanic or Latino residents constituted 35.31% of the population (as reported by Wikipedia). More recent data indicates that Hackensack’s population is 37.2% Hispanic, 26.0% White, 18.1% Black, and 13.8% Asian (as reported by Census Dots).
Population Trends and Diversity
Hackensack’s population has seen consistent growth, reaching its highest decennial count in 2020 with 46,030 residents (as reported by Wikipedia). The city’s demographic makeup is notably diverse, with a higher percentage of racial and ethnic diversity compared to New Jersey overall (as reported by Census Dots).
The Hispanic population forms the largest demographic group, representing 37.2% of the residents (as reported by Census Dots). The city’s diversity extends to its multiracial population, which has seen significant growth, increasing from 2.1% to 3.9% since the 2020 census (as reported by Census Dots).