15 Most Dangerous Cities In New Jersey
By: ROS Team
New Jersey, often referred to as the “Garden State,” is known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse communities. However, like any other state, it also has its share of crime.
In this article, we will explore the 15 most dangerous cities in NJ, based on crime statistics and various factors that contribute to their higher crime rates.
Most Dangerous Cities in NJ
1. Camden
Violent Crime Rate: 1,603/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 2,159/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 3,762/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Camden consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous cities in NJ. It is situated across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, facing numerous socioeconomic challenges like poverty and unemployment. With a high crime rate, especially for violent crimes, Camden becomes a cause for concern among both residents and visitors.
2. Newark
Violent Crime Rate: 490/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 1,457/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 1,947/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Newark, the largest city in New Jersey, serves as a bustling center for both business and transportation. However, it faces daunting challenges posed by significant crime issues, particularly within certain neighborhoods. Factors such as poverty and drug-related problems greatly contribute to the city’s persistently high crime rates.
3. Trenton
Violent Crime Rate: 1,169/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 2,090/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 3,259/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Trenton, the state capital of New Jersey, has been grappling with crime for an extensive period. The city’s crime rates, particularly concerning property crimes and violent offenses, contribute to its classification as one of the worst cities in NJ.
4. Atlantic City
Violent Crime Rate: 823/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 2,698/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 3,521/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Known for its casinos and tourist attractions, Atlantic City faces challenges related to gambling addiction, poverty, and unemployment. These issues contribute to a higher crime rate in the city, making it one of the most dangerous cities in NJ.
5. Bridgeton
Violent Crime Rate: 974/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 3,067/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 4,040/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Bridgeton, a city located in Cumberland County, faces a high crime rate compared to the state average. Poverty and limited economic opportunities are factors that contribute to crime problems in this area.
6. Asbury Park
Violent Crime Rate: 1,226/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 3,424/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 4,651/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Asbury Park, a coastal city located in Monmouth County, has undergone various revitalization efforts in recent years. Despite these positive changes, it still contends with challenges related to drug-related crimes and property offenses, positioning itself as one of the more dangerous cities in NJ.
7. Vineland
Violent Crime Rate: 383/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 2,090/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 2,473/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Vineland, located in Cumberland County, grapples with issues like unemployment and economic instability, which have a direct impact on crime rates. Property crimes are a significant concern in this area.
8. Elizabeth
Violent Crime Rate: 480/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 2,219/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 2,699/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Elizabeth, a bustling city in Union County, faces its share of crime issues, primarily due to its proximity to Newark. The city’s crime rates, particularly regarding property crimes and violent offenses, are higher than the state average.
9. Millville
Violent Crime Rate: 634/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 3,403/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 4,037/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Millville, another city in Cumberland County, deals with a combination of economic difficulties and crime problems. Property crimes and violent offenses are concerns for residents and local authorities alike.
10. Paterson
Violent Crime Rate: 989/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 1,490/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 2,479/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Paterson, New Jersey’s third-largest city, is known for its rich industrial history. However, it faces numerous challenges, including high crime rates. Property crimes and violent offenses are particularly prevalent in certain areas of the city. Factors such as poverty, unemployment, and a relatively high population density contribute to these crime problems.
11. Penns Grove
Violent Crime Rate: 1,123/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 4,215/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 5,338/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Penns Grove is a small town located in Salem County, New Jersey, with a population of around 5,000 residents. While it may not be as large as some of the previously mentioned cities, it has faced its share of crime-related challenges, earning it a reputation as one of the more dangerous areas in the state.
12. Wildwood
Violent Crime Rate: 713/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 6,724/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 7,437/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Wildwood, a beloved resort city situated on a barrier island in Cape May County, New Jersey, has gained considerable popularity. However, the fluctuating population due to its seasonal nature greatly influences crime rates in this charming destination.
During the summer months when tourists flood the area, the town experiences an upsurge in criminal activities owing to the increased population. Since Wildwood heavily relies on tourism for its economy, such influx of visitors can result in undesirable occurrences like theft, vandalism, and alcohol-related offenses.
13. Long Branch
Violent Crime Rate: 305/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 1,856/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 2,161/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Long Branch, situated along the Jersey Shore in Monmouth County, New Jersey, is a coastal gem known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant community. While it enjoys a reputation as a desirable destination for residents and visitors alike, it does face its share of challenges related to crime, primarily property crimes like theft and vandalism.
14. Jersey City
Violent Crime Rate: 443/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 1,497/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 1,940/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
The penultimate city on our list of most dangerous cities in NJ is Jersey City. Like many urban areas, Jersey City does have some neighborhoods with higher crime rates, but it’s important to note that the city is not uniformly dangerous. Crime levels can vary significantly from one area to another within the city.
15. Lindenwold
Violent Crime Rate: 634/100k people (NJ Average: 195/100k people)
Property Crime Rate: 2,418/100k people (NJ Average: 1,158/100k people)
Total Crimes Reported: 3,051/100k people (NJ Average: 1,354/100k people)
Located in Camden County, Lindenwold wraps up our list of most dangerous cities in NJ. While it may not be as well-known as some of the larger cities in the state, it has faced its share of challenges related to crime. Property crimes such as theft and burglary have been more common in Lindenwold, although it’s essential to recognize that not all areas within the borough experience the same level of crime.
FAQs
What Town In NJ Has The Highest Crime Rate?
The town in New Jersey with the highest crime rate is Camden. As reported by Niche, Camden’s crime rates are 3,762 per 100k, which is 178% higher than New Jersey.
What Is The Number One Crime In New Jersey?
The number one crime in New Jersey is property crime encompassing acts like burglary, larceny, and auto theft. The year 2021 witnessed a staggering total of 103,761 reported property crimes within the state, constituting roughly 80% of all documented criminal incidents.
Is New Jersey Safer Than New York?
New Jersey is commonly regarded as a safer place than New York. Based on the data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program in 2022, New Jersey had a violent crime rate of 3.6 per 1,000 people, whereas New York had a slightly higher rate of 4.4 per 1,000 people.
In terms of property crimes, New Jersey recorded a rate of 14.1 per 1,000 people while New York had a slightly higher property crime rate at 15.2 per 1,000 people.
Worst Cities in NJ: Takeaway
While New Jersey offers a rich cultural tapestry and many opportunities, it also faces challenges related to crime in several of its cities. Factors such as poverty, unemployment, and economic instability, along with the presence of transient populations often assisted by movers, contribute to higher crime rates in these areas.
