What are the hidden costs of living in Paterson?

Higher property taxes than average Potential for higher insurance premiums due to crime Ongoing maintenance costs in older housing stock

What is the median home price in Paterson?

The median home price in Paterson is approximately $283,300.

Is Paterson walkable?

Paterson has a Walk Score of 33 out of 100. Most errands require a car.

Paterson, NJ

Updated April 30, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Hard pass

Verdict

$283K

Median Price

33/100

Walk Score

6.8/10

Schools

45 min

to Midtown Manhattan, NY

Score Breakdown

FSafety

18/100

FQuietness

20/100

FAffordability

28/100

FWalkability

33/100

C+Schools

68/100

B-Commute

70/100

WYLT Score40/100

Our Take

Paterson offers very low home prices and a strong sense of community, but it struggles with high crime, limited walkability, and a weak local economy. It’s not a good fit for most families or professionals looking for a safe, comfortable environment.

Map

Loading map…

The Good

✓Affordability – median home price under $300k
✓Diverse population and cultural events
✓Access to major highways and some public transit
✓Low flood risk

Real Talk

!High violent and property crime rates
!Limited walkability and public transit options
!Noise and traffic congestion are common
!Few quality dining and nightlife choices
$Higher property taxes than average
$Potential for higher insurance premiums due to crime
$Ongoing maintenance costs in older housing stock

Best For

Budget-conscious buyersMilitary families with stable incomePeople seeking a diverse communityThose willing to deal with high crime for low costs

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow

Violent crimeHigh

Property crimeHigh

Air qualityModerate

Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Paterson, NJ

Safety grade

Safety score18 / 100

High riskVery safe

⚠️Violent Crime

High

9.2incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (3.7)11+

149% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime

High

38.4incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (19.5)59+

97% higher than the national average

Verify with real-time data

AreaVibes crime →City-Data stats →NeighborhoodScout →

Rates are estimated from neighborhood characteristics using national FBI baselines. Actual figures vary by block — always verify with local sources before making decisions.

Similar Neighborhoods

Think twice

Dallas

Dallas, TX

$300K · 7.1/10 schools

Think twice

Chicago

Chicago, IL

$306K · 6.8/10 schools

Good for now

Saint Paul

Saint Paul, MN

$277K · 6.1/10 schools

Good for now

Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

$269K · 6.9/10 schools

From Residents

🏘

Loading…

Know someone considering this area? Send them this report.

wouldyoulivethere.com/report/paterson-nj-07501

📬

Stay in the loop on Paterson

Get one email when this report refreshes (~every 90 days). No spam.