The FBI's annual compilation of crimes reported to the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program by law enforcement agencies from around the nation is an interesting source when considering a state's safest and most dangerous locales. Recently, New Jersey townships provided violent crime data to the FBI -- and the most dangerous city in New Jersey may surprise you. Some interesting information about the findings is included below, followed by a listing of the safest towns. Note that rankings are determined by the number of violent crimes per 1,000 residents.
When it comes to violent crimes per 1,000 residents, Teterboro, New Jersey, ranks near the top. How did this small airport town take the top spot, and what makes it such a dangerous place in New Jersey?
For starters, Teterboro is small -- really small. As of the 2010 census, there were just 67 residents in this little locale -- a single violent crime can seriously skew the statistics (56.33 violent crimes per 1,000 residents). But don't let the numbers scare you away. So then, is Teterboro, New Jersey safe? Overall, it's a safe place with a flourishing new shopping area - Teterboro Landing. Where there was little more than an empty lot once upon a time; today, you'll now find shops and a wide variety of restaurants including Blaze Pizza, Panera, and BJ's Brewhouse, making it a great spot to settle down!
Moving along, Camden is most likely New Jersey's most dangerous town for violent crime, according to a variety of data, studies, and research.
While the city did not report crime data to the FBI in 2015, 2014 data shows 25.66 violent crimes per 1,000 residents. But again, take this information with a grain of salt...
Newark comes in second, and here's where it falls in terms of statistics and data...
Though the city also did not report in 2015, 2014 data shows 20.72 violent crimes per 1,000 residents. Salem comes in at the third spot with 15.81 violent crimes per 1,000 residents. Have you visited either of these towns recently?
Several shore towns ranked among the top 10 most dangerous cities in New Jersey, according to data.
Atlantic City, Asbury Park, Seaside Heights, and Wildwood have all appeared on the lists of New Jersey's most dangerous towns. Why? In part due to tourism. Thousands flock to our beaches each summer, some of whom commit robbery and aggravated assault (both considered violent crimes by the FBI, along with rape and murder).
Jersey City, which often gets a bad rap, isn't as dangerous as many think.
The town generally falls low on the list of most dangerous places in New Jersey, which might surprise you!
And now, for more good news! The average crime rate in the United States is 3.8 per 1,000 residents, and the vast majority of New Jersey towns fall below this marker.
Only about 40 of New Jersey's towns have a violent crime rate higher than 3.8/1,000 and over 300 of our towns have less than one violent crime per 1,000 residents.
By and large, New Jersey is an incredible and safe place to live. So don't be deterred if your town didn't make the list!
Do you live in one of the above safest towns in New Jersey?
New Jersey is a wonderful place to live. In addition to natural splendor and scenic beauty, we are one of the safest places to live in the country, too! The numbers don't lie, either. What did you think of the above list of the most dangerous and safest towns in New Jersey?
Do you agree that these are the safest towns in New Jersey? Did any of these places surprise you? Did your little locale make the list? Do you have a town in New Jersey that you'd like to see featured? Nominate it here, and tell us what makes it so special!
New Jersey really is such a lovely place to live. Here are some of our favorite places to visit in the state!
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