Is Cherry Hill Safe?

Safety is one of the most common questions from families considering a move to Cherry Hill. The short answer is that Cherry Hill is widely regarded as one of the safer communities in Camden County and South Jersey. With crime rates below national averages, a well-funded police department, and active community policing initiatives, Cherry Hill offers a secure environment for families, retirees, and professionals alike.

Cherry Hill Crime Statistics

Cherry Hill's overall crime rate is approximately 16.95 incidents per 1,000 residents, which places the township in the 74th percentile for safety nationally. This means Cherry Hill is safer than about 74% of communities across the United States.

Violent crime rates in Cherry Hill are approximately 44% below the national average. The violent crime rate is approximately 302.3 incidents per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 389.1 per 100,000. Property crime rates are also favorable, though they vary somewhat by neighborhood.

It is important to note that crime statistics can fluctuate year to year, and localized data for specific neighborhoods provides a more useful picture than township-wide averages. The northeastern part of Cherry Hill is generally considered the safest area, though all analyzed neighborhoods have earned A-range safety grades.

How Cherry Hill Compares to Nearby Communities

Cherry Hill compares favorably to other South Jersey communities of similar size. While it is not the absolute safest in the region (some smaller, more affluent towns like Haddonfield and Moorestown have lower crime rates), Cherry Hill's safety record is strong for a community of its size and diversity. The township's larger population and commercial corridors naturally attract more activity than smaller, purely residential towns.

Compared to major cities, Cherry Hill's safety record is excellent. The violent crime rate is significantly lower than Philadelphia's and comparable to or better than most suburban communities in the region.

Safest Neighborhoods in Cherry Hill

While Cherry Hill is safe overall, some neighborhoods are particularly known for their low crime rates and family-friendly atmosphere:

• Barclay-Kingston -- One of the safest neighborhoods in Cherry Hill, with a strong neighborhood watch presence and community-oriented culture.
• Woodcrest -- Quiet, mature neighborhood with low crime rates and the added security of a tight-knit community.
• Kingston Estates -- Larger homes on generous lots, generally very low crime rates.
• Downs Farm -- Family-friendly with excellent safety records, popular with young families.
• Haddontowne -- Well-maintained and community-oriented, with consistently low crime rates.

For a more detailed look at each neighborhood, see our best neighborhoods guide.

Police and Public Safety

The Cherry Hill Police Department is a well-funded, professional force that maintains an active presence throughout the township. The department emphasizes community policing, with officers who are familiar with the neighborhoods they serve. Programs include:

• Community Policing -- Officers are assigned to specific areas and build relationships with residents and businesses.
• Neighborhood Watch -- Active programs in many Cherry Hill neighborhoods, coordinated through the police department.
• School Resource Officers -- Officers assigned to Cherry Hill schools to ensure student safety.
• Emergency Response -- The township's fire and emergency medical services maintain quick response times.

The township invests consistently in its police force, emergency services, and infrastructure that supports safety, including well-lit streets and traffic safety measures.

Safety Tips for Cherry Hill Residents

While Cherry Hill is safe, practicing common-sense safety measures is always wise:

• Lock your doors and windows, even in safe neighborhoods. Most property crimes are opportunistic.
• Join or start a neighborhood watch program. Knowing your neighbors is the best security measure.
• Secure your vehicles and do not leave valuables visible inside. Vehicle break-ins happen even in safe areas.
• Use outdoor lighting at night. Motion-activated lights are an effective deterrent.
• Report suspicious activity to the Cherry Hill Police Department. An engaged community is a safe community.

Safety for Families with Children

For families with children, Cherry Hill offers a particularly safe environment. The school district has safety protocols in place, and the township's parks and playgrounds are well-maintained and regularly patrolled. Many families report that their children can play outside, walk to school, and ride bikes through the neighborhood safely.

The Challenge Grove Park, with its fully accessible playground, is designed with safety in mind. The township's recreation programs are supervised and structured. Most neighborhoods have sidewalks and well-lit streets, making evening walks and bike rides safe.

Fire Safety and Emergency Services

Cherry Hill is served by multiple fire districts and emergency medical services. The Cherry Hill Fire Department maintains a high level of readiness, and the township's location near Virtua and Cooper hospital systems ensures that emergency medical care is never far away. The community has a strong emergency management program that coordinates responses to severe weather and other public safety incidents.

The Bottom Line on Cherry Hill Safety

Cherry Hill is a safe community by any reasonable measure. While no community of 71,000 people is completely free of crime, Cherry Hill's rates are well below national averages, and the township's commitment to public safety is evident in its police presence, community programs, and infrastructure. For families, retirees, and professionals, Cherry Hill offers a secure environment where safety is a genuine selling point, not just a marketing claim.

As with any community, specific street-level safety can vary. The best way to assess safety for your specific situation is to visit the neighborhoods you are considering, talk to current residents, and work with a local expert who knows the community intimately.

Dig deeper with the best neighborhoods guide for area-by-area insights, the emergency services guide for police and preparedness contacts, and the family living guide for a parent-focused look at community safety.