Camden, New Jersey, is a dynamic city located in Camden County. With a rich history and a population of over 70,000 residents, Camden is a bustling urban center known for its vibrant culture and notable landmarks. However, when considering a move or visit to Camden, safety is a paramount concern.

In this article, we will delve into the reported crime rates in Camden, initiatives aimed at improving safety, and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of living or spending time in this diverse city.

Is Camden NJ safe to live in?

Camden, NJ is not considered one of the safest cities to live in, with a safety ranking of being safer than only 7% of U.S. neighborhoods. The estimated crime rate in Camden is 35.47 crimes per 1,000 residents, with 13.78 violent crimes and 21.69 property crimes per 1,000 residents.

The chances of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Camden are 1 in 73, while the chances of becoming a victim of a property crime are 1 in 46. Compared to the state's overall average, Camden has a higher crime rate, with a total crime rate of 2,546 crimes per year, including 989 violent crimes and 1,557 property crimes.

Camden NJ crime rate information

Camden NJ crime rate information

According to the latest available data, Camden, New Jersey experienced a total of 2,546 reported crimes in the past year. Out of these, 989 were categorized as violent crimes, while 1,557 were property crimes. These numbers indicate a crime rate of 35.47 per 1,000 residents in Camden.

Violent Crimes in Camden

Camden experienced 989 incidents of violent crime, resulting in a violent crime rate of 13.78 per 1,000 residents. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, non-negligent manslaughter, robbery, sexual assault, and aggravated assault.

Comparing Camden's violent crime rate to the state of New Jersey, we find that the rate is significantly higher. Individuals residing in Camden face a 1 in 73 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime, which is 1.131% higher than the state average.

Property Crimes in Camden

The city reported 1,557 property crimes, leading to a property crime rate of 21.69 per 1,000 residents. Property crimes include burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson.

When comparing Camden's property crime rate to the state of New Jersey, we observe that it is also higher. The chances of becoming a victim of a property crime in Camden are 1 in 46, which is 1.222% higher than the state average.

Initiatives to Improve Safety in Camden, NJ

To bolster security, Camden has installed surveillance cameras across public areas, serving as a deterrent to criminal activity and aiding in investigations. Additionally, the police department has secured funding from federal, state, and private grants, enabling the acquisition of essential resources like body cameras and patrol vehicles, thereby improving their emergency response capabilities.

In the fight against drug use and abuse, Camden has launched impactful initiatives, such as the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E) program and the Camden Municipal Alliance. These initiatives focus on educating the community, especially young individuals, about the dangers associated with drug use and ensuring that those in need of assistance have access to the necessary resources.

Moreover, Camden has intensively addressed domestic violence concerns by establishing a dedicated domestic violence response team and implementing comprehensive training programs for law enforcement officers to effectively handle such situations.

Although these initiatives have been implemented, Camden still faces challenges, and crime rates in the city remain relatively high compared to neighboring areas.

The Safest Neighborhoods in Camden

  • Cooper Grant
  • Parkside
  • Centerville
  • Liberty Park
  • Waterfront South
  • Gateway

The safest neighborhoods in Camden, NJ are Cooper Grant, Parkside, Centerville, Liberty Park, Waterfront South, and Gateway. These areas have established a reputation for their lower crime rates in comparison to other parts of the city.

The Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Camden

The most dangerous neighborhoods in Camden, USA, based on recent crime statistics

  • North Camden
  • Whitman Park
  • Bergen Square

These areas have been identified as having higher crime rates compared to other neighborhoods in the city. They have unfortunately experienced a significant number of violent crimes, including homicides, assaults, and robberies. It is important for residents and visitors to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings when in these neighborhoods. 

Pros of Living in Camden, NJ

Proximity to Philadelphia

  • Camden is located just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, offering easy access to the city and its amenities.
  • Living in Camden allows for a shorter commute to Philadelphia, making it convenient for work or leisure activities.
  • The proximity to Philadelphia opens up a wide range of job opportunities, cultural events, shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Affordable Cost of Living

  • Camden generally has a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the region, including Philadelphia.
  • Housing prices and rental rates in Camden tend to be more affordable, allowing residents to save on their living expenses.
  • The lower cost of living can provide an opportunity for individuals and families to enjoy a higher quality of life within their budget.

Cultural and Recreational Attractions

  • Camden is home to various cultural and recreational attractions. For example, the Adventure Aquarium offers a diverse range of marine life exhibits and interactive experiences.
  • Cooper River Park provides a scenic outdoor space with walking trails, boating opportunities, and picnic areas.

Cons of Living in Camden, NJ

Crime Rates

  • Camden has historically had higher crime rates compared to the national average. It has faced challenges related to violent crime and property crime.

Education System

  • The education system in Camden has faced significant challenges and has historically struggled with low performance and graduation rates.
  • Families with school-age children may need to explore alternative education options such as charter schools or private schools.

Economic Factors

  • Camden has experienced economic challenges, including a higher poverty rate compared to the national average.
  • Job opportunities and career prospects within the city may be limited, and residents may need to commute to neighboring areas for work.

What Do Residents Say About Camden, NJ?

Camden, New Jersey, has long been known as a struggling community plagued by abandoned buildings and high crime rates. However, in just four years, the city has undergone a remarkable transformation. With a concerted effort from local authorities to increase police presence and demolish dilapidated structures, positive changes have been witnessed. New businesses are being attracted to the area, crime rates have dropped significantly, and drug use has decreased.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Camden, NJ is not considered a safe city to live in. It has a higher crime rate compared to the state average, with a significant number of violent and property crimes. The chances of becoming a victim of crime in Camden are relatively high. Therefore, caution should be exercised when considering living in Camden.