Are you considering moving or traveling to Newark, New Jersey, but worried about whether the city is safe? Unfortunately, your fears are valid because safety is a vital factor to consider when visiting or relocating.
If you’ve had initial worries about the safety level in Newark, New Jersey, you’ve come to the right because we’ll answer your questions about safety in Newark, NJ.
The fantastic city of Newark, NJ, lies just 20 miles away from the Manhattan skyline. The city ranks as the largest city in New Jersey and shares proximity to NYC.
The city is an urban area with so many great attractions, but sadly this wonderful city has garnered a bad reputation regarding safety. The crime rate here is a lot higher than the national average.
Is Newark, NJ, Safe for Travel?
There isn’t an absolute answer as to whether Newark, NJ, is safe for tourists, as the answer depends on several factors. However, some areas are relatively secure, although you can move from a safe spot to an unsafe one within minutes.
Being vigilant of your environment is very important regardless of wherever you find yourself. Regarding safety in Newark, the city isn’t the safest in New Jersey, although some areas are safer than others.
Just like all major cities, there are some areas that you must avoid, especially during night hours. However, identifying safe and unsafe regions isn’t an issue in Newark, as the city offers an online crime map to help travelers know secure and insecure areas.
To fully understand the safety condition in Newark, NJ, we’ll look at certain factors like crime rate, theft, mugging, and others.
Crime Rate in Newark
The crime rate in Newark, NJ, isn’t encouraging at all. A crime stat taken by CrimeGrades ranked Newark in the 10th percentile for crimes. That is, 90% of cities in New Jersey are safer, and only 10% are more dangerous than Newark.
Crime in Newark is usually prevalent in the residential south ward of Newark. That is yo; you’re more prone to experiencing crime attacks in these areas.
Northward regions of Newark are usually the safest, although it’s best to avoid residential areas and stay in the parts that tourists frequent.
You can also apply simple precautions like traveling in groups and observing your environment.
Common Crimes in Newark, NJ
Since we’ve established that Newark falls in the 10th percentile of crime in New Jersey, let’s check out some common crimes in the city.
Pickpocketing
One of the most common crimes in Newark is pickpocketing. Pickpocketing is prevalent in both residential and tourist-dominated areas.
Pickpockets usually bump into their targets or stand very close to their targets in crowded places. So keep your belongings very close to you to stay safe from pickpockets in Newark.
Always endeavor to be alert every time in Newark, NJ. Cross-body bags, usually worn to the front, are another way to tackle pickpocket theft in Newark, NJ.
The pickpocketing and purse snatching rate isn’t as high as in other places in New Jersey. However, it would shock you that only one pickpocket case was reported in Newark in 2021.
They’ve significantly improved in curbing pickpocket theft over the years in Newark, but this shouldn’t cause you to let your guard down, as you can’t get too confident.
Car Theft
The rate of car theft in Newark is relatively low. Most thieves disguise themselves as people needing assistance or begging for change, usually along traffic light areas.
Once you fall for their scheme, they’ll threaten and ask you to leave your car. Keeping your car doors and windows locked would help you stay safe from car theft in Newark, NJ.
Rape
Rape is another thing to watch out for in Newark, NJ. The city experiences an average of 157 rape cases annually. Although this amount isn’t far from the US average, it still isn’t an outstanding achievement.
It’s believed that most rape cases don’t get reported, which implies that the average could even be much higher if this is true.
Mugging
The average mugging rate in Newark, NJ, is about 30% above the national average. The implication is that you must be on a steady lookout for yourself and your properties when in Newark.
You should avoid going out at night and avoid industrial or residential areas.
Natural Disasters
The rate of natural disasters in Newark is average. Major concerns include the risk of flooding, harsh winter weather, and the impact of hurricanes and storms.
If you can cope with Newark’s cold and wintry weather, you’ll fare well in the city.
Women Traveling Alone
If you’re a female solo traveler, you’ll want to know about women traveling risks in Newark, NJ. Regarding crime in Newark, women aren’t the center of attraction.
Women have a 13% lower risk of being victims of violent crime than men in Newark.
Regarding sexual assault, the rate is half the national average. Newark’s standard rule states: Don’t walk around at night alone, which applies to both men and women.
Safest Places in Newark, NJ
Newark is generally safe for travelers if you avoid certain areas and stick to tourist-dominated areas. The city has many attractions, but you must be mindful of the places you visit.
For those visiting Newark for the first time, here are a few of the safest places in Newark:
Ironbound District
Ironbound District is one of the safest areas for tourists in Newark. The region is small but has many things that travelers can enjoy.
The Ironbound District features several shops and restaurants and is the perfect place to experience a blend of Spanish and Portuguese culture.
The district also features a northern and southern part, but both areas are generally safe.
Downtown
Another safe zone in Newark is the downtown area of the city. For most people, Downtown is the safest option because of easy train access and proximity to NYC.
You don’t need to own a car to enjoy downtown Newark s; the region is walkable. Transportation costs are low, and you can rent or buy an apartment cheaply.
Upper Roseville
Crime in Upper Roseville is relatively very low compared to other Newark regions. In addition, the area shares proximity with the light rail; thus, navigating through Newark without owning a car is easy.
Upper Roseville is ideal for you if you’re looking for a good apartment without a decline in quality.
University Heights
University Heights sounds like a place for just students going by the name, but whether or not you’re a student, you can reside at University Heights.
The cost of housing here is relatively low for students and professionals. It’s also the ideal place to own a house as the area is safe and the price of homes are affordable.
Safety Tips for Travelers in Newark
1. Avoid Isolated Areas
Crime is usually prevalent in residential and isolated areas; hence, as a traveler in Newark, staying in populated and well-lit areas is advisable.
2. Keep Your Belongings Close To Your Body
Mugging and pickpocketing are one of the most common crimes in Newark, so you should ensure that you keep your valuables very close to you at all times.
3. Avoid Going Out at Night
Most crimes like drug trafficking and other violent crimes usually occur at night, so avoiding walking late at night would be best.
4. Move About in Groups
The chances of getting attacked or robbed are lower when you’re in groups, so ensure you go out at night or during the day.
5. Be Watchful Of Your Surroundings
No one can protect you better than you would defend yourself, so you should always be vigilant wherever you are.
Conclusion
Newark isn’t the safest of cities in New Jersey, but there are still some secure areas that you can visit. If you’re considering moving to Newark, read through this writing to help you plan your trip better.