Enter any New Jersey address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
New Jersey faces a mixed flood risk, with flash floods being the most frequent event type over the last 30 years, followed by general floods and coastal floods.
The state's geography, encompassing a coastline and inland river systems, contributes to this varied risk. Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the impact of significant weather events, including severe storm and flooding in July 2023 and multiple declarations for the remnants of Hurricane Ida in September 2021. These events underscore the potential for both inland and coastal flooding.
National Flood Insurance Program data indicates that Zone A properties have the highest number of claims and the largest total payout, suggesting a significant risk in these areas. However, claims are also present in Zone X and X_Shaded areas, with average claim amounts in Zone V being the highest, indicating that flood risk is not confined to the most commonly designated flood zones and that insurance may be advisable for a broader range of properties.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
New Jersey has received 627 federal disaster declarations, including 74 flood and coastal storm declarations and 88 hurricane declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across New Jersey using the following classifications:
AE High Risk — 1% annual chance of flooding (100-year floodplain). Insurance required for federal mortgages.
VE Very High Risk — Coastal flooding with wave action. Strictest building codes.
X (Shaded) Moderate Risk — 500-year floodplain. Insurance recommended.
X Low Risk — Outside major floodplains. Insurance optional but advisable — from 2014 to 2024, nearly one-third of NFIP claims came from outside high-risk zones.
Properties in New Jersey FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (zones A and V) with federally backed mortgages are required to carry flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
The average NFIP premium in New Jersey is approximately $1,228 per year. Rates vary significantly based on flood zone, building elevation, and coverage amount.
Even outside high-risk zones, flood insurance is recommended. From 2014 to 2024, nearly one-third of NFIP claims came from properties outside the high-risk Special Flood Hazard Area. New Jersey residents can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP or private insurers.
Visit FloodSmart.gov to find an agent and get a quote.
See the most flood-prone counties in New Jersey →
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