Jacksonville, Florida, boasts a vibrant atmosphere enriched with a compelling history, diverse culture, and picturesque landscapes. Nevertheless, like any sizable urban center, it grapples with crime and violence. Certain neighborhoods within Jacksonville are more susceptible to criminal activities than others, necessitating awareness among both residents and visitors regarding potential risks.
This blog post delves into the five neighborhoods deemed most perilous in Jacksonville, based on the reported number of violent crimes per 100,000 people by AreaVibes. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery, and assault. Additionally, we provide practical tips for ensuring safety and avoiding trouble in these areas.
Hogan’s Creek
Situated in downtown Jacksonville near the St. Johns River, Hogan’s Creek, home to approximately 2,651 people, holds the highest violent crime rate in the city at 619 crimes per 100,000 people—surpassing the city’s average of 454 crimes per 100,000 people. Recognized for its historic architecture, such as Klutho Park and the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, Hogan’s Creek contends with issues like poverty, homelessness, and drug abuse, contributing to its elevated crime rate. Visitors should exercise caution, especially at night, avoiding solitary walks and dimly lit areas. Securing valuables and promptly reporting any witnessed or experienced crimes to 911 is essential.
College Gardens
Adjacent to Hogan’s Creek in downtown Jacksonville, College Gardens encompasses around 2,323 people, sharing the same elevated violent crime rate of 619 crimes per 100,000 people. Named after Edward Waters College, a historically black college founded in 1866, College Gardens predominantly consists of an African American population facing challenges such as low median income ($18,333), unemployment, lack of education, and gang violence. Visitors to College Gardens should adhere to safety measures akin to those in Hogan’s Creek, steering clear of suspicious individuals and reporting any unusual activity to the police.
East Jacksonville
Located in the northeastern part of the city near the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, East Jacksonville, with a population of roughly 1,974, reports a violent crime rate identical to Hogan’s Creek and College Gardens—619 crimes per 100,000 people. Once a thriving industrial and commercial area, East Jacksonville underwent decline, grappling with urban decay, poverty, and crime. Visitors should exercise caution, particularly around railroad tracks and abandoned structures, sticking to main roads and familiar areas while keeping valuables secure.
Phoenix
In the northwestern part of Jacksonville near the Trout River, Phoenix accommodates around 1,055 residents, boasting a violent crime rate mirroring the previous neighborhoods at 619 crimes per 100,000 people. Despite being primarily residential, Phoenix contends with a host of issues, including a low median income ($19,375), high poverty rate (40.9%), and problems like drug trafficking, prostitution, and domestic violence. Visitors to Phoenix should remain vigilant, especially near the river and interstate, avoiding interactions with strangers and seeking assistance if needed.
Fairfield
In downtown Jacksonville near the Springfield Historic District, Fairfield, housing about 985 people, shares the highest violent crime rate of 619 crimes per 100,000 people with the aforementioned neighborhoods. This historic district features Victorian-style homes and buildings but grapples with a high vacancy rate (28.8%), a low median income ($20,833), and crime issues like burglary, assault, and vandalism. Visitors to Fairfield should respect local residents and properties, refraining from trespassing or damaging private or public spaces, and promptly reporting any witnessed crimes to 911.
Conclusion
While Jacksonville, Florida, offers a fantastic living or visiting experience, certain neighborhoods demand heightened awareness due to elevated crime rates. Hogan’s Creek, College Gardens, East Jacksonville, Phoenix, and Fairfield top the list based on violent crimes per 100,000 people, stemming from high levels of poverty, unemployment, and drug abuse.
Visitors to these neighborhoods should exercise caution, employing basic safety measures like avoiding solitary walks in poorly lit areas, securing belongings, and reporting any suspicious activity. By staying informed and prepared, individuals can savor the best that Jacksonville has to offer while mitigating potential risks. Stay safe and enjoy your time in the city!