Is Maplewood Safe, Pros and cons of living in Maplewood

Maplewood offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities, making it an attractive option for those seeking a well-rounded lifestyle. This community is known for its strong sense of community and its commitment to providing a good quality of life for its residents.

The town boasts a diverse population and a variety of housing options, catering to different needs and preferences. With its array of parks, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions, Maplewood provides ample opportunities for both leisure and engagement.

Is it Safe to Live in Maplewood?

Maplewood, New Jersey, presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with violent crime rates significantly lower than national and state averages (as reported by Patch, citing FBI data). In the most recent available FBI data, there were 13 violent crimes reported in Maplewood, a decrease from previous years (as reported by Patch, citing FBI data). This trend indicates a commitment to public safety within the community.

While violent crime is low, property crime rates in Maplewood are higher than the national average, with a chance of becoming a victim of property crime at 1 in 72 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). This suggests that while the community is safe from violent offenses, vigilance regarding property security is advisable.

Cost of Living and Housing Market

Housing Costs

The housing market in Maplewood, New Jersey, is competitive, with a median home price of $999,000 as of March 2026 (as reported by Redfin). Homes in Maplewood tend to sell quickly, averaging 17 days on the market (as reported by Redfin). This indicates a high demand for properties within the township.

Rental prices in Maplewood are also notable, with the average rent for all property types at $2,800 per month as of April 2026 (as reported by Zillow). The rental price range can vary significantly, from $1,295 to $13,000, offering a spectrum of options for renters (as reported by Zillow).

Cost of Living

Maplewood, New Jersey, has a cost of living that is 25% higher than the national average (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). This is influenced by various factors, including housing, transportation, and utilities.

Despite the higher cost of living, Maplewood’s median household income is substantially higher than the national average, standing at $167,428 (as reported by Livability.com). This income level helps to offset the increased expenses associated with living in the area.

Job Market and Economy

Major Employers

Maplewood, New Jersey, benefits from its proximity to New York City, offering access to a vast job market. Within Maplewood itself, prominent employers include retail establishments like Dollar General and Target, as well as service providers such as CVS Health and Starbucks (as reported by Indeed.com).

The United States Postal Service and Labcorp are also significant employers in the area (as reported by Indeed.com). These diverse employers contribute to the local economy and provide various employment opportunities for residents.

Unemployment Rate

Specific unemployment rate data for Maplewood, NJ, is not readily available in the provided search results. However, national and state unemployment figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) can offer a broader economic context. The BLS provides monthly unemployment statistics for metropolitan areas and states, which can be used for comparative analysis.

The Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI metropolitan area, which may share some economic similarities, reported an unemployment rate of 4.8% in March 2026 (as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics). This figure can provide a general sense of the regional employment landscape.

Climate and Environment

Temperature and Rainfall

Maplewood, New Jersey, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summer high temperatures typically reach the mid-80s Fahrenheit, while winter lows can drop into the 20s Fahrenheit. The area receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with an average of around 45-50 inches annually.

Spring and fall offer mild weather, making these seasons pleasant for outdoor activities. The climate is generally conducive to a variety of recreational pursuits, with four predictable seasons.

Education and Demographics

School Ratings

The South Orange-Maplewood School District in New Jersey is highly rated, earning an “A-” overall from Niche. It is recognized for having some of the best teachers in the state, ranking 69th out of 358 districts (as reported by Niche). The district serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

Within the district, individual schools also receive high marks. For example, Delia Bolden Elementary School and Tuscan Elementary School have received “A” ratings (as reported by Niche). This reflects a strong commitment to educational excellence within the community.

Demographics

Maplewood, New Jersey, is a diverse community with a population of approximately 25,684 as of the 2020 census (as reported by Wikipedia). The racial makeup includes a significant White population (51%), followed by Black or African American (28%), Asian (4%), and other racial groups (as reported by Census Reporter). Hispanic or Latino individuals constitute about 11% of the population (as reported by Census Reporter).

The median age in Maplewood is around 39.6 years (as reported by Wikipedia), indicating a mix of age groups within the township. The population is distributed across various age brackets, with a notable percentage of residents under 18 and a considerable segment in the 25-64 age range.