Is Newark New Jersey Safe?
Newark, the biggest city in New Jersey, is a lively center of lifestyle, history, and business. However, as with any metropolitan setting, safety is a crucial factor for both visitors and residents. So, Is Newark NJ safe?
This article aims to delve into Newark’s safety, including crime rates and the various types of crime occurring there. We will also examine the different neighborhoods in Newark and evaluate their safety levels.
Additionally, we will offer safety recommendations tailored to Newark and assess the advantages and disadvantages of residing in this urban center.
If you want to know the best places to live in New Jersey for families, read this post.
Newark NJ Background
Dating back to its founding in 1666, Newark is among the oldest cities in the United States. Its strategic location along the Passaic River and rich history have helped it grow into a significant economic hub.
Newark has a current population of more than 280,000 people. It is home to a vibrant arts community, along with several distinguished academic institutions, including the New Jersey Institute of Technology and Rutgers University-Newark.
Is Newark NJ Safe?
Safety is an individual notion, and what one person perceives as safe may differ from another’s viewpoint. Nevertheless, Newark has made considerable progress in enhancing security in recent times.
While some regions continue to grapple with crime, other city areas have undergone redevelopment and expansion. It is crucial to take into account both statistical data and the residents’ personal experiences while assessing Newark’s safety.
Crime Rates in Newark
Crime rates in Newark have steadily declined in the past ten years. Nonetheless, the city continues to have a higher crime rate compared to the national average for both violent and property crimes.
According to data from 2021, Newark’s crime rate was above the national average by 44%. However, Newark is deemed safer than nearby city Hartford in Connecticut.
Types of Crimes Committed in Newark
Newark’s crime can be broadly classified into two main categories: violent and property crime. Violent crime comprises serious offenses such as: murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Property crime encompasses burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
According to the UCR’s 2021 report, the predominant type of crime in Newark was property crime, with around 6,000 incidents reported. During the same period, roughly 2,000 violent crimes were reported. These figures denote major progress from past years and signify a positive trend toward the city’s enhanced safety.
Safe Areas in Newark
There are multiple neighborhoods in Newark with comparatively lower crime rates. These areas provide a safer environment for both locals and tourists. Here are some of them:
Forest Hill: Forest Hill is a district with a rich history renowned for its stunning architectural designs and streets lined with trees, providing a peaceful and secure environment.
Ironbound: This divergent and lively neighborhood is renowned for its bustling commercial district and tight-knit society, which adds to its safety.
University Heights: University Heights is appropriately named as it houses various academic facilities, making a secure and thriving environment for both residents and students. So is University Heights Newark safe? The answer is yes.
Unsafe Areas in Newark NJ
Despite Newark’s considerable efforts to improve security, there are still some areas experiencing higher crime rates. When visiting or residing in these neighborhoods, it is crucial to exercise caution:
South Ward: This area is still experiencing more crime incidents than others despite continuous attempts to improve its safety.
West Ward: This area is one of the less secure regions in the city, encountering both crime and economic hardships.
So is Newark NJ safe? Not in these areas! It is important to know the areas to avoid in Newark, NJ.
Tips for Staying Safe in Newark NJ
To remain informed about criminal activity in your locality, make use of the crime mapping tool provided by the Newark Police Department.
Consider joining or forming a neighborhood watch group to encourage residents to be more involved in the community and improve your neighborhood’s safety. Participate in meetings in your community to keep updated on local safety campaigns. It’s also important speak up about your worries regarding criminal activity in your area.
Take the time to get acquainted with and bond with the people within your neighborhood. A closely-knit society can prevent illegal activity.
Instead of walking in high-crime areas, you can use the city’s public transportation systems, like the NJ Transit and the Newark Light Rail, to be safer.
If you want to use ride-sharing services such as Lyft and Uber, always be cautious. Before getting in, check the vehicle’s license plate number and verify the driver’s identity.
For students, use security services available on your campus, like security escorts, emergency call boxes, and campus shuttles.
Learn about resources in your area. For example, the Newark Community Street Team is a group aiming to reduce violent crimes and enhance security of the public via community involvement and outreach.
Pros of Living in Newark NJ
Cultural Diversity: Newark is a city that prides itself on its diversity, creating a welcoming atmosphere of acceptance and respect. A wide range of cultural events, food, and festivals all year, contributes to a lively and engaging community. It is a popular place to live for black families.
Proximity to New York City: The proximity of Newark to Manhattan offers convenient access to a plethora of job opportunities, cultural attractions, and world-renowned entertainment. A short train ride is all that is needed to reach New York City, making it possible for locals to experience the advantages of metropolitan life without having to bear the high living expenses.
Educational Opportunities: Newark provides a wealth of educational opportunities for students, with numerous colleges and universities located within the city. This creates a highly educated and skilled workforce, which can help fuel the growth and improvement of the city.
Arts Scene: Newark has a flourishing arts scene with various institutions, such as the Newark Museum of Art, exhibiting a vast array of American and global art, and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, showcasing a variety of performances. These institutions are vital in enhancing the city’s cultural vitality and providing locals and tourists with high-quality art experiences.
Affordability: Newark is a cost-effective choice for people seeking to reside in the NY metropolitan region compared to neighboring cities. The city provides a variety of accommodations, including historic houses and contemporary apartments, to cater to different preferences and budgetary figures.
Transportation: With its well-established public transportation system, Newark provides convenient access to trains, buses, and the Newark Liberty International Airport. This comprehensive network makes commuting to work easy for locals, as well as traveling around the city to places such as Cranford, and venturing out on international trips.
Cons of Living in Newark NJ
Crime Rates: Compared to the national average, Newark’s crime rate is higher despite efforts to improve safety, which can be worrisome for some locals. While the city is working continuously to solve these issues and enhance security measures, certain areas are still struggling with crime incidents.
Economic Challenges: Certain neighborhoods of the city face persistent economic challenges, including poverty and unemployment. These economic issues can adversely affect the living conditions of people residing in those areas. These problems can also exacerbate crime and impede progress toward improving the city.
Traffic Congestion: Similar to many metropolitan areas, Newark suffers from traffic jams during rush hours, making it frustrating for commuting people. The traffic jams in the city can lead to long commutes, an increase in gas mileage, and more air pollution.
Pollution: The city’s history as an industrialized city has led to some pollution concerns, especially concerning air quality. While there are ongoing efforts to remediate contaminated areas and revitalize the city, residents may still be impacted by pollution in their day-to-day lives.
So How Safe is Newark New Jersey?
In the end, Is Newark NJ safe? Upon reviewing the safety conditions in Newark NJ, it’s apparent that the city has made notable advancements recently.
Nonetheless, it’s still concerning that the city’s crime rate is still above average in the country. Certain areas are relatively more secure than others.
Several resources and programs are available to further enhance security measures in the city of Newark. For more information regarding the safety of the nearby town, Elizabeth NJ, check this article.
