“Discover the Garden State’s changing landscape as we reveal the ‘7 New Jersey Towns People Are Fleeing As Soon As Possible.'” In this eye-opening investigation, we look into the elements that motivate locals to pack their bags and seek new opportunities.
Each town’s tale is distinct, ranging from economic concerns to lifestyle choices. Join us on a fascinating tour across the corridors of change, shining light on the areas where migratory trends are transforming the New Jersey experience.”
1. Lakewood
Lakewood is a rapidly developing community in Ocean County, yet it is also a subject of contention and disagreement. The town is home to a strong Orthodox Jewish community, which makes up more than half of the population and 90% of the school-aged children.
The community has been accused of imposing religious beliefs on the public realm, breaking zoning regulations, and depleting the town’s resources. Lakewood also has a high COVID-19 case count, with more than 15,000 infections and 300 fatalities as of April 2021.
2. Keansburg
Keansburg is a little town on Raritan Bay that isn’t particularly comfortable to live in. The community has a low quality of life, with a median property value of $164,800 and a typical rent of $1,224, both less than the state average.
Keansburg similarly has a high crime rate, with 206 violent and 467 property offenses in 2019. Hurricane Sandy caused serious damage to the town in 2012, and it has yet to fully recover.
3. Camden
Camden has mostly classified as one of America’s most dangerous cities, with a violent crime rate that is 6.6 times the national average. Poverty, unemployment, and a lack of educational achievement are also prevalent in the city. Camden has been under state authority since 2002, yet the intervention has done nothing to improve conditions.
4. Newark
Newark is New Jersey’s largest city, as well as one of its most problematic. The city has a lengthy history of corruption, criminal activity, and civil instability. In 2020, Newark had the state’s highest murder rate, with 93 killings.
The city is also plagued by poverty, pollution, and inadequate public services. Newark’s airport and transit hub make it an easy entrance to New York, although many visitors avoid staying in the city itself.
5. Paterson
Paterson is New Jersey’s third-largest city, yet it is also among the poorest and most dangerous. The city’s poverty rate is 28.4%, more than double the state average.
Paterson has a high crime rate, with 19 murders and 1,161 serious assaults in 2020. The city’s infrastructure is failing, with regular water main breaks, electricity outages, and sewage overflows.
6. Trenton
Trenton is New Jersey’s capital, yet the city has nothing to offer its citizens. The city has a high poverty rate, a low median income, and a decreasing population. Trenton has a reputation for violence and political turmoil. In 2018, the city’s mayor was found guilty of corruption and sentenced to jail. In 2019, a gunshot at a local festival killed one person and wounded 22.
7. Atlantic City
Atlantic City was formerly a popular tourist destination known for its casinos, boardwalk, and beaches. However, the city has struggled because of competition from neighboring states and internet gambling, which has lowered its earnings and attraction.
Atlantic City has the nation’s highest foreclosure rate, with one out of every twelve residences in some stage of the process. The city also has high unemployment, crime, and debt.