New Jersey
Category Breakdown
Scores by Category
New Jersey vs National Average
12-Month Composite Trend
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New Jersey Rankings Overview
New Jersey earns an overall grade of A with a composite score of 71.2 out of 100, ranking #7 among all 50 US states. The state's strongest category is Education (96/100) while its biggest challenge is Growth (40/100).
Economy & Employment in New Jersey
With an unemployment rate of 4.8% (compared to the national average of 3.8%), New Jersey performs below average on economic indicators. The median household income is $97,126, which ranks above the national median of $74,753.
Safety & Crime in New Jersey
New Jersey's violent crime rate of 195 per 100,000 residents places it in the top half of states for public safety. This makes it one of the safest states in America.
Health & Education in New Jersey
New Jersey ranks #10 for health outcomes according to the 2025 America's Health Rankings report, and #3 for K-12 education quality based on NAEP scores and graduation rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is New Jersey's overall ranking?
New Jersey ranks #7 out of 50 states with a composite score of 71.2/100 and a grade of A.
Is New Jersey a good place to live?
New Jersey ranks among the top-performing states in America with a composite score of 71.2/100. Its strengths in areas like economic opportunity and public safety make it an attractive place to live for many residents.
What is the crime rate in New Jersey?
The violent crime rate in New Jersey is 195 per 100,000 residents (2024 FBI data), compared to the national average of 350 per 100,000.
How does New Jersey's economy compare?
New Jersey's median household income is $97,126 with an unemployment rate of 4.8%. The unemployment rate is above the national average of 3.8%, and the median income is above the national median of $74,753.
What are the best cities in New Jersey?
New Jersey's major metropolitan areas offer diverse options for residents.