Union County, New Jersey, is a diverse region located in the northeastern part of the state. The area is known for its vibrant communities, rich history, and a mix of urban and suburban environments. It offers various cultural attractions, parks, and educational institutions. Nevertheless, like any part of the country, residents and visitors risk becoming victims of crime. Anyone living in Union County or visiting should brush up on the Union County crime rate and statistics to stay safe.
Crime rates in a given area can allow people to know how safe a specific area is. While crime may still take place, it gives people an idea of how likely they are to become victims if they are in that locale.
Crime Rates in Union County
Compared to the national average, Union County, NJ, has a comparatively low crime rate. The county has a violent crime rate of 12.4, which is nearly half the U.S. average of 22.7.
Union County also has a property crime rate of 24.4 — significantly lower than the national average of 35.4. Many residents in Union County considered their home county to be a safe and secure area in terms of crime and public safety.
The property crime rate in Union County is slightly lower than the state as a whole. Union County has a crime rate of 13.91 per 1,000 residents. The state property crime rate is 14.17 per 1,000 residents.
This means that someone in Union County has a 1 in 72 chance of becoming a victim of property crimes, while anyone in the state has a 1 in 71 chance. Property crimes in New Jersey encompass offenses such as theft, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and vandalism.
Overall, Union County is considered to have a somewhat below-average level of crime. In terms of violent crime, Union County has a lower crime rate than the national average. In fact, it is safer than 60% of the country.
Residents cite the northwest region as the safest. Crime rates vary widely among neighborhoods, with chances of victimization ranging from 1 in 30 in the east to 1 in 124 in the northwest.
Per 1,000 residents, violent crime rates break down as follows:
- -Assault (0.5624)
- -Robbery (0.7584)
- -Rape (0.1582)
- -Murder (0.0233)
Per 1,000 residents, property crime rates in Union County include:
- -Theft (5.035)
- -Vehicle Theft (3.074)
- -Burglary (2.168)
- -Arson (0.0865)
New Jersey Crime Rates Put Into a National and Regional Perspective
New Jersey has among the lowest crime rates in the country, with a total rate of 195.36, ranking fifth nationwide. It has consistently maintained one of the lowest violent crime rates for two years running and is the fourth-lowest in property crime rates nationwide. Compared to the Mid-Atlantic region, New Jersey’s violent crime rate is notably lower than New York’s at 363.8.
FAQs
Q: What Rank Is New Jersey in Crime Rate?
A: New Jersey has some of the lowest crime rates in the nation. It currently ranks fifth-lowest overall. When comparing its rates to those of the nation for property crimes, New Jersey ranks fourth-lowest. New Jersey is significantly safer than nearby New York, which has a crime rate of 363.8, compared to New Jersey’s rate of 195.36.
These are only averages, though. Individual towns, cities, and communities have a high variability of crime rates. If you are considering traveling to a particular locale, it is always wise to examine its unique crime statistics before you go there.
Q: Is Crime Declining in New Jersey?
A: Following an overall downward trend nationwide, New Jersey is seeing a drop in violent crime. In 2023, there were 924 shootings, which marks a 13% decrease when compared to the previous year. The number of shootings recorded in New Jersey is the lowest seen in the state since 2009.
Gun violence is also trending downward. There were 191 gun-related homicides last year, down 8% from the year prior. Specific cities and counties may see increases in crime, even as the statewide averages continue to trend downward. Nevertheless, New Jersey, as a whole, has seen a decline in crime.
Q: Which Cities in New Jersey Have the Highest Crime Rate?
A: Camden has one of the highest crime rates in New Jersey and the U.S. as a whole, with violent crime at 10.6 per 1,000 people and property crime at 9,220 per 100,000. Newark follows closely, with a violent crime rate of 7.7 and property crime at 6,620 per 100,000.
Paterson ranks as the third-most dangerous city in New Jersey, with a violent crime rate of 7.2 and property crime at 6,320 per 100,000.
Q: When Did New Jersey Have the Worst Crime Rate?
A: New Jersey experienced record crime rates in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The period was marked by high levels of violent crime, particularly in cities like Newark, Camden, and Jersey City. Much of the crime was related to organized crime and gangs. Since then, efforts in policing, community outreach, and economic revitalization have contributed to significant declines in crime rates across the state.
Schedule Your Criminal Defense Attorney Consultation Today
Union County is a wonderful community in which to live and raise a family. Crime is trending downward in the area. New Jersey is one of the safest states in the country. However, crime can happen anywhere and to anyone. If you were recently charged with a crime, you can rely on the legal team at the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, to protect your rights.
In many cases, your lawyer can work to lower the penalties that you are facing so you do not have to worry about a worst-case scenario. An attorney from our law firm can assess your case facts, review your arrest record, and thoroughly investigate the events surrounding your arrest.
We have helped many people reduce the penalties they are facing, whether their charges were for white-collar crime, assault, or non-violent criminal acts. We can do the same for you. If your freedom is on the line due to criminal charges, don’t wait. Contact the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, today to schedule a consultation.
