Is Belford safe?
Middletown, New Jersey · safety score updated nightly
Yes — it is one of the safer places in the metro to walk around.
VibeLoco rates Belford as “Go”.
What makes up this score?Recent news
Gogo's take on Belford
“Go. Belford is an exceptionally safe coastal enclave within Middletown Township, historically recognized as one of the safest municipalities in New Jersey. Visitors can explore the waterfront, ferry terminal, and local seafood spots with minimal safety concerns at any time.”
About the area
Belford is a quiet, maritime-influenced suburban community situated along the Raritan Bay in Monmouth County. Known for its working fishing port, commuter ferry service to Manhattan, and established residential streets, it offers a peaceful, low-key coastal ambiance.
- Coastal / Maritime
- Quiet / Suburban
- Family-Friendly
- Car-Dependent
Walking and biking in Belford
Walk score: 38/100 · Bike score: 46/100
There is no municipal bike-share system, but the paved Henry Hudson Trail runs directly through Belford, providing off-road cycling access across northern Monmouth County.
Reasons to go, and reasons to think twice
Pros
- Violent and property crime rates are well below state and national averages.
- High homeownership rate and strong median household income exceeding $110,000.
- Active commuter hub with direct ferry connections to New York City.
- Access to regional coastal parks and the multi-use Henry Hudson Trail.
Cons
- Low-lying coastal sections face occasional tidal flooding during major coastal storms.
- Highly car-dependent neighborhood with limited sidewalks on certain residential roads.
- Minimal evening nightlife or entertainment options outside of a few casual taverns.
Homelessness: Visible homelessness is not a notable presence in Belford, with no encampments or panhandling observed in the residential or waterfront districts.
What Belford is like at each time of day
- Morning · 5a – 11a
- Peaceful and active with commuters heading to the ferry terminal and residents jogging along local roads.
- Afternoon · 11a – 5p
- Very quiet residential feel with light local traffic around seafood markets and parks.
- Evening · 5p – 10p
- Calm and safe, with families dining out and neighbors walking dogs around the bayfront.
- Late night · 10p – 5a
- Extremely quiet and safe, though streets are dimly lit and strictly residential.
Transit, parking and getting around
NY Waterway operates direct commuter ferries to NYC from the Belford Ferry Terminal, while NJ Transit bus route 817 serves Route 36. The nearest rail link is NJ Transit's Middletown Station on the North Jersey Coast Line, about 3 miles southwest.
Parking is exceptionally easy, with plentiful free residential street parking and large free lots at the ferry terminal, local parks, and businesses.
Things to do in Belford
- Pick up freshly caught seafood at the historic Belford Seafood Co-op.
- Walk or bike along the paved Henry Hudson Trail which cuts right through the area.
- Take a scenic commuter ferry ride into Lower Manhattan from the Belford Ferry Terminal.
Local favorites
- Belford Seafood Co-Op · Seafood Market · 4.6★ (320)Historic fishermen's cooperative offering ultra-fresh local catches and prepared seafood.
- Belford Bistro · New American Restaurant · 4.7★ (290)Acclaimed upscale BYOB dining spot serving seasonal, locally sourced modern American fare.
- Half & Half Monmouth · Diner & Breakfast · 4.6★ (180)Popular local morning gathering spot serving hearty breakfast plates and specialty coffee.
Neighborhoods near Belford
Common questions about Belford
Is Belford safe to walk at night?
Generally yes — use the same awareness you would anywhere after dark.
Is Belford a good place to live?
On safety, Belford scores 93/100 — safer than most of the areas we score, which is a good start for anyone looking to live here.
How walkable is Belford?
Walk score 38/100 and bike score 46/100. Most trips need a car.
Which areas near Belford are safer?
New Monmouth (94) score higher nearby.
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