Is Newark Safe? (Honest Tips & Advice)

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Wondering “Is Newark safe?” is a valid concern if you’re planning a trip to the New Jersey city. Of course, you want you and your loved ones to be safe when you travel.

I’ve called the Garden State my home for over 30 years, partially as a resident of Newark. I can honestly say that the city is moderately safe for travel, depending on where you stay and the precautions you take. 

In this article, I’ll go over my honest advice about safety in Newark, as well as my top tips for your visit.

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Is Newark Safe?

When planning a visit to Newark, one of the most common questions is if it’s safe. Generally, Newark is somewhat safe to travel to and visit.

Newark is an urban area that, despite its great attractions, has unfortunately garnered a bad reputation. Crime rates are higher than the national average, especially in residential areas.

However, if you stay in populated tourist areas such as Downtown Newark, you’re less likely to be a victim of violence or any crime. Still, it’s important to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

Things to Know About Safety in Newark

Safe Neighborhoods and Areas in Newark

Newark is decently safe for tourists as long as you stay in the more populated areas where tourists frequent. These include areas such as Downtown, and by the Newark Liberty International Airport. 

Downtown Newark in particular has an almost constant police presence. This is especially true near main attractions such as the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and Prudential Center. Both of these locales are great things to do in Newark as well! Newark Airport is another safe area, known for its tight security.

For your safety, it’s best to avoid residential areas, as well as traveling alone anywhere after dark. 

🛎️ Need a place to stay? Don’t miss our guide on the best areas and hotels in Newark.

Crime in Newark

Crime rates in Newark are unfortunately not the best. According to the crime stats on CrimeGrades, Newark is in the 10th percentile for crime. This means that 90% of New Jersey cities are safer, and 10% are more dangerous.

However, you’re more likely to become a victim of a crime, especially violent crime, in the residential South Ward area of Newark. The North Ward is considered the safest of the residential areas. Still, it’s a good idea to avoid residential areas and stick to areas that tourists frequent. 

You can avoid being the victim of a crime if you take certain precautions, such as not traveling alone, and being aware of your surroundings.

Common Scams in Newark

The scam risk is fairly high in Newark. Common scams that you’ll find frequently involve the theft of personal property.

• Car Theft – Thieves often pose as either people needing assistance or begging for change at a traffic light. They then threaten and demand you get out of the car. To avoid becoming a victim, keep your car windows closed and doors locked. This is important especially if you plan on being stopped for an extended period of time.

• Pickpockets – This is a common scam in many tourist areas, Newark or otherwise. Pickpockets will bump up against you, or stand very close to you in crowded areas. To avoid becoming a victim, keep your belongings like wallets and phones as close to you as possible. In fact, aim to keep them in front of you if possible. Crossbody bags worn to the front are great options when traveling out and about.

• Mugging – When it comes to mugging, you can reduce risk by traveling in populated areas and wearing crossbody bags. 

Hazardous Weather and Natural Disasters

Because of Newark’s location, serious natural disasters aren’t common here. Hurricane Sandy in October of 2012 was the exception and an anomaly. In general, however, the natural disaster risk in Newark is minimal. 

The worst in terms of weather are thunderstorms and heavy rain in the summer. In the winter, you’ll find dangerously icy conditions and black ice. These occur especially after a significant snowfall. The City of Newark is quick to clean main roads, but sidestreets don’t receive much attention.

Safety for Solo Female Travelers

Women travelers’ risk is unfortunately higher in Newark. Caution should be taken to avoid becoming a victim of a crime by using these pertinent women’s travel tips.

Criminals are more likely to prey on a woman alone than they are a group, especially if that group has a man. Traveling in groups and being aware of your surroundings are two of the best precautions to take. It’s also a good idea to limit traveling at night.

Drinking Water Safety

While most places in New Jersey don’t have the best tap water for drinking, Newark is the exception. Drinking water in Newark is not only safe but it tastes better than in most other cities and towns!

However, water in Newark is still subject to contaminants, so it’s a good idea to use a water filter or drink bottled water. 

5 Safety Tips for Newark

Tip #1 – Stay in Populated Areas

Most crimes take place in isolated and residential areas where people travel alone. This risk increases for women travelers and when individuals aren’t familiar with the area. 

Your best bet is to stay in well-populated, high traffic areas such as Downtown Newark.

Tip #2 – Keep Your Belongings Close To Your Body

Petty thieves are unfortunately on the prowl frequently. The pickpocket and mugging risk is high. With this in mind, it’s best to keep any valuables, such as your wallet, as close to your body as possible. Researching your travel insurance options ahead of time is also a good idea.

Crossbody bags worn in the front, and zippered pockets are good options when out and about.

Tip #3 – Don’t Go Out After Dark

Violent crimes and drug trafficking (in areas known for it) are prevalent at night. Go on any excursions during the day to help avoid these incidents. 

If you do have to go out at night, to say a show at the Prudential or NJPAC, stay as close to the crowds as possible. It’s also a good idea to avoid any isolated areas.

Tip #4 – Travel in Groups

If you have to go out at night to a show or event, travel with someone. Criminals are less likely to prey on groups than they are individuals.

Tip #5 – Be Mindful Of Your Surroundings

Stay vigilant. Keep an eye out for suspicious persons as you travel, and are out and about in Newark. Don’t let people walk too close to you if you can avoid it. 

FAQs About Safety in Newark

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Thanks for reading my guide about safety in Newark! Curious about other locales in the Garden State? Read my guide to safety in New Jersey as a whole.

(Featured Image Credit: quiggyt4 / Shutterstock)