20 Worst Places to Live in New Jersey: Ranking the Garden State’s Least Desirable Locations

A rundown, graffiti-covered building in a neglected urban area with broken windows and overgrown weeds

New Jersey, known for its diverse landscapes and proximity to major cities, offers many desirable places to live.

However, not all areas in the Garden State provide an ideal living experience for residents.

This article examines 20 locations in New Jersey that face significant challenges in terms of quality of life, safety, economic opportunities, and other key factors.

By exploring these places, readers can gain insights into the complexities of urban planning, community development, and the ongoing efforts to improve living conditions across the state.

1. Camden

A rundown street with dilapidated buildings and littered sidewalks in Camden, New Jersey

Camden, located across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, faces significant challenges. The city consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous in New Jersey, with high crime rates affecting residents’ daily lives.

Poverty is widespread in Camden, with a substantial portion of the population living below the poverty line. This economic hardship contributes to limited job opportunities and underfunded public services.

The education system in Camden struggles to meet students’ needs. Many schools underperform, impacting the future prospects of local youth.

Camden’s infrastructure shows signs of neglect, with abandoned buildings and poorly maintained roads common sights throughout the city. This decay affects property values and quality of life for residents.

Environmental concerns also plague Camden. The city has a history of industrial pollution, which continues to impact air and water quality in some areas.

2. Newark

A rundown street in Newark, New Jersey, with dilapidated buildings, graffiti-covered walls, and litter scattered on the sidewalks

Newark, New Jersey’s largest city, faces significant challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly in certain neighborhoods, which can make residents feel unsafe.

Poverty is a pressing issue in Newark, with a substantial portion of the population living below the poverty line. This economic hardship affects access to quality education, healthcare, and other essential services.

Newark’s aging infrastructure poses problems for residents. Many buildings and roads are in need of repair or replacement, leading to inconveniences and potential safety hazards.

Air quality concerns persist due to industrial activities and heavy traffic in the area. This can contribute to health issues for Newark’s inhabitants, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The public education system in Newark has faced criticism for underperformance. While efforts have been made to improve schools, many families still struggle to find quality educational options for their children.

3. Paterson

A run-down street lined with dilapidated buildings, trash strewn about, and graffiti covering the walls. The atmosphere is bleak and unwelcoming

Paterson, New Jersey’s third-largest city, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly violent crimes, which contribute to a sense of insecurity among its population.

Paterson’s education system faces difficulties, with underperforming schools and low graduation rates. This educational landscape limits opportunities for young residents and affects the city’s overall economic prospects.

The city grapples with economic hardships, including high unemployment rates and limited job opportunities. Many residents struggle to make ends meet, leading to financial stress and poverty.

Paterson’s aging infrastructure poses problems for its inhabitants. Deteriorating roads, outdated public facilities, and inadequate public transportation options create daily inconveniences for residents.

The city’s high population density and limited green spaces contribute to a lack of recreational areas. This shortage of parks and open spaces reduces residents’ access to outdoor activities and community gathering spots.

4. Trenton

A rundown street in Trenton, New Jersey, with dilapidated buildings, littered sidewalks, and graffiti-covered walls

Trenton, the capital city of New Jersey, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, ranking among the most dangerous in the state.

Poverty is a pressing issue in Trenton, with a substantial portion of the population living below the poverty line. This economic hardship affects many aspects of daily life for residents.

The education system in Trenton has room for improvement. Some schools underperform compared to state averages, potentially limiting opportunities for students.

Trenton’s job market can be competitive, with limited employment options in certain sectors. This situation may lead some residents to seek work opportunities outside the city.

The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging in some areas. Certain neighborhoods could benefit from revitalization efforts to enhance the urban environment.

5. Jersey City

A run-down, graffiti-covered alley in Jersey City, with broken windows and littered trash, surrounded by dilapidated buildings

Jersey City faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. High housing costs strain many households, with rent and home prices well above the national average.

Crime rates in certain neighborhoods remain a concern for safety-conscious residents. Some areas experience higher incidents of property crime and violent offenses.

Traffic congestion plagues Jersey City, particularly during rush hours. Commuters often encounter gridlock on local streets and highways leading into New York City.

The public education system struggles in parts of Jersey City. Some schools underperform on standardized tests and graduation rates compared to state averages.

Air quality issues arise from industrial activities and heavy traffic. This can affect respiratory health for sensitive individuals.

Parking scarcity frustrates many residents, especially in densely populated areas. Finding street parking or affordable garages proves challenging for car owners.

6. Elizabeth

A rundown street in a neglected neighborhood, with dilapidated buildings and overgrown weeds. Trash litters the sidewalks, and graffiti covers the walls

Elizabeth, New Jersey’s fourth-largest city, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly property crimes and violent offenses.

Elizabeth’s public schools underperform compared to state averages, with lower test scores and graduation rates. This educational gap can limit opportunities for young residents.

Air quality in Elizabeth is a concern due to its proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport and heavy industrial activity. Residents may experience higher rates of respiratory issues as a result.

The city’s aging infrastructure, including roads and public buildings, requires substantial upgrades. This contributes to traffic congestion and affects the overall urban environment.

Elizabeth’s cost of living exceeds the national average, straining household budgets. Housing costs are particularly high relative to local incomes, making affordable housing a pressing issue for many residents.

7. Lakewood

A run-down neighborhood with dilapidated buildings, littered streets, and graffiti-covered walls. The area is desolate and devoid of any signs of prosperity

Lakewood, New Jersey, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The town struggles with overcrowding issues, leading to strain on local infrastructure and services.

Traffic congestion is a daily frustration for Lakewood inhabitants. The roads are often clogged, especially during peak hours, making commutes and errands time-consuming.

The public school system in Lakewood has been criticized for underperformance. Many students attend private religious schools, leaving the public schools underfunded and struggling to meet educational standards.

Crime rates in Lakewood are higher than the state average. This has raised concerns about safety among residents and potential newcomers to the area.

The rapid population growth in Lakewood has led to disputes over land use and development. These conflicts have created tension between different community groups and local authorities.

8. Plainfield

A rundown neighborhood with dilapidated buildings, overgrown weeds, and littered streets. The atmosphere is bleak and desolate, with a sense of neglect and decay

Plainfield, New Jersey, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly property crimes and violent offenses.

Economic issues plague Plainfield, with a poverty rate exceeding the state average. Many residents find it difficult to secure well-paying jobs within the city limits.

The public school system in Plainfield has faced criticism for underperformance. Test scores and graduation rates lag behind state averages, affecting students’ educational opportunities.

Infrastructure problems are evident throughout the city. Some neighborhoods suffer from aging roads, sidewalks, and public facilities in need of repair or replacement.

Plainfield’s housing market presents challenges for both buyers and renters. Many properties require substantial renovations, while affordable housing options remain limited.

9. Atlantic City

An abandoned, rundown street in Atlantic City, with dilapidated buildings and trash scattered about, depicting the city's ranking as one of the worst places to live in New Jersey

Atlantic City, once a thriving resort destination, has faced significant challenges in recent years. The city’s economy heavily relies on the casino industry, which has experienced a decline due to increased competition from neighboring states.

Unemployment rates in Atlantic City remain higher than the state average. This economic downturn has led to a decrease in population and property values.

Crime rates in Atlantic City are concerning, with violent crime rates exceeding the national average. The city struggles with issues related to drug use and poverty.

Atlantic City’s infrastructure has deteriorated in many areas, with some neighborhoods experiencing blight and abandoned properties. The city’s public schools have also faced difficulties, with low test scores and graduation rates.

Despite efforts to revitalize the area, Atlantic City continues to grapple with these persistent problems, making it a challenging place to live for many residents.

10. Irvington

The rundown buildings of Irvington, New Jersey, are surrounded by littered streets and abandoned cars, creating a desolate and neglected atmosphere

Irvington, located in Essex County, New Jersey, faces significant challenges that impact its livability. The town struggles with high crime rates, which have consistently been above the national average.

Economic difficulties plague Irvington, with a median household income well below the state average. This financial strain is reflected in the town’s limited resources for public services and infrastructure maintenance.

Education in Irvington presents another concern. The public school system has faced performance issues, with test scores often falling below state standards.

Property values in Irvington have remained relatively low compared to surrounding areas. This can make it difficult for homeowners to build equity or attract new residents to the community.

The town’s unemployment rate exceeds both state and national averages, contributing to economic instability for many residents. These factors combine to create ongoing challenges for Irvington’s population and its potential for growth and improvement.

11. East Orange

A run-down, neglected neighborhood in East Orange, New Jersey, with dilapidated buildings and overgrown lots, creating a sense of urban decay and desolation

East Orange, located in Essex County, New Jersey, faces significant challenges that impact the quality of life for its residents. The city grapples with a high crime rate, which has contributed to safety concerns among community members.

Economic struggles are evident in East Orange, with a poverty rate above the state average. This has led to limited job opportunities and financial hardships for many residents.

The city’s public school system has faced difficulties in recent years, with some schools underperforming compared to state standards. This has raised concerns about educational quality and opportunities for local students.

East Orange also contends with aging infrastructure, including roads and public facilities that require maintenance and upgrades. These issues can affect daily life and the overall appearance of the city.

12. Vineland

A run-down neighborhood with dilapidated buildings, littered streets, and graffiti-covered walls. The atmosphere is bleak and desolate, with a sense of neglect and poverty

Vineland, located in Cumberland County, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high crime rate, exceeding both state and national averages.

Unemployment in Vineland is a persistent issue, with rates consistently above the New Jersey average. This economic instability affects many households and limits opportunities for residents.

The city’s public schools perform below state standards, raising concerns about educational quality. Many families worry about their children’s academic prospects and future success.

Vineland’s infrastructure shows signs of aging and neglect. Outdated roads, bridges, and public facilities require substantial investment to meet community needs.

Limited public transportation options make it difficult for residents without personal vehicles to access jobs and services. This lack of mobility can further exacerbate economic disparities within the city.

13. New Brunswick

A rundown street in New Brunswick, New Jersey, with dilapidated buildings and trash-strewn sidewalks. The atmosphere is bleak and unwelcoming

New Brunswick faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high crime rate, particularly in certain neighborhoods. This poses safety concerns for inhabitants and visitors alike.

The cost of living in New Brunswick is relatively high compared to other parts of New Jersey. Housing expenses and everyday necessities can strain budgets, especially for lower-income residents.

Traffic congestion is a persistent issue in the city. Rush hour commutes and limited parking options create frustration for drivers and contribute to air pollution.

New Brunswick’s public school system has room for improvement. Some schools underperform academically, potentially affecting students’ educational outcomes.

The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging in certain areas. Outdated roads, bridges, and public facilities may require substantial investment to meet modern standards.

14. Asbury Park

A run-down street in Asbury Park, with dilapidated buildings and littered sidewalks, creating a sense of neglect and decay

Asbury Park, located on the Jersey Shore, has faced significant challenges over the years. The city’s crime rate remains a concern for residents and visitors alike.

Economic struggles have plagued Asbury Park, with high unemployment rates and poverty levels above the state average. This has contributed to a decline in property values and limited opportunities for many residents.

The education system in Asbury Park has also faced difficulties. Test scores in local schools often fall below state averages, impacting students’ future prospects.

While efforts to revitalize the city’s beachfront have shown promise, many areas still suffer from urban decay and neglect. Abandoned buildings and deteriorating infrastructure detract from the city’s overall appeal.

Despite its musical heritage and attempts at renewal, Asbury Park continues to grapple with issues that affect residents’ quality of life. These factors contribute to its inclusion on lists of challenging places to live in New Jersey.

15. Union City

A rundown street in Union City, New Jersey with dilapidated buildings, littered sidewalks, and graffiti-covered walls

Union City, located in Hudson County, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city’s high population density contributes to congestion and limited space, making it difficult for inhabitants to find adequate housing or parking.

Crime rates in Union City are a concern for many residents. While not the highest in New Jersey, the crime levels exceed state averages, affecting residents’ sense of safety and security.

The cost of living in Union City is notably higher than the national average. This financial strain puts pressure on residents, particularly in terms of housing expenses and everyday necessities.

Traffic congestion is a persistent issue in Union City. The city’s proximity to New York and its dense population lead to crowded streets and longer commute times for residents.

Air quality in Union City is another area of concern. The city’s industrial past and current urban environment contribute to pollution levels that may affect residents’ health and well-being.

16. West New York

A run-down neighborhood with dilapidated buildings and littered streets in West New York, New Jersey

West New York, located in Hudson County, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s population density is exceptionally high, leading to crowded living conditions and limited personal space.

Traffic congestion is a significant issue in West New York. The city’s proximity to New York City results in heavy traffic during rush hours, causing frustration for commuters and residents alike.

Housing costs in West New York are relatively high compared to many other parts of New Jersey. This makes it difficult for some residents to find affordable housing options within the city.

The public school system in West New York has received mixed reviews. Some schools struggle with overcrowding and limited resources, potentially affecting the quality of education for students.

Crime rates in certain areas of West New York are a concern for residents. While not as high as some neighboring cities, safety remains an issue that impacts the overall quality of life.

17. Hackensack

A desolate, run-down street in Hackensack, New Jersey, with dilapidated buildings and litter strewn about, evoking a sense of neglect and decay

Hackensack, a city in Bergen County, New Jersey, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with high population density, leading to congestion and limited green spaces.

Crime rates in Hackensack are higher than the national average, raising concerns about safety for residents. Property crimes, in particular, are a significant issue in the area.

The cost of living in Hackensack is notably high, with housing prices and property taxes placing a burden on many residents. This financial strain can make it difficult for some to afford basic necessities.

Traffic congestion is a persistent problem in Hackensack, especially during rush hours. The city’s proximity to New York City contributes to heavy commuter traffic, leading to longer travel times and increased stress for residents.

Air quality in Hackensack is sometimes compromised due to its urban setting and proximity to industrial areas. This can potentially impact the health of residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

18. Perth Amboy

A run-down street in Perth Amboy, New Jersey with dilapidated buildings and trash strewn across the sidewalk

Perth Amboy, located in Middlesex County, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising concerns about safety for residents and visitors alike.

Unemployment in Perth Amboy is higher than the state average. This economic struggle affects many families and individuals in the community, limiting job opportunities and financial stability.

The public school system in Perth Amboy has room for improvement. Test scores and graduation rates fall below state averages, potentially hindering students’ academic progress and future prospects.

Housing costs in Perth Amboy are relatively high compared to median incomes. This disparity makes it difficult for many residents to afford suitable accommodation or achieve homeownership.

Traffic congestion and limited parking options create daily frustrations for commuters and residents. These issues can lead to increased stress and reduced quality of life for those living and working in Perth Amboy.

19. Guttenberg

A rundown neighborhood with dilapidated buildings, overgrown lots, and graffiti-covered walls. Trash litters the streets and the atmosphere feels desolate and unwelcoming

Guttenberg, a small town in Hudson County, New Jersey, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s extreme population density contributes to overcrowding and limited space, with nearly 23,000 residents packed into less than half a square mile.

Traffic congestion is a persistent issue in Guttenberg due to its location and high population density. Residents often struggle with limited parking options and heavy traffic during peak hours.

The town’s housing market presents difficulties for potential homeowners and renters. Property values are high relative to income levels, making it challenging for many to afford suitable housing in the area.

Public schools in Guttenberg have received mixed reviews, with some residents expressing concerns about educational quality and resources. This may impact families considering long-term residency in the town.

Limited recreational facilities and green spaces within Guttenberg’s borders can affect residents’ quality of life, particularly for those seeking outdoor activities or community gathering spots.

20. Clifton

A rundown street in Clifton, New Jersey, with dilapidated buildings and littered sidewalks, creating a sense of neglect and urban decay

Clifton, a city in Passaic County, faces several challenges that impact quality of life for residents. The city struggles with high population density, leading to overcrowding and traffic congestion on major roads.

Property taxes in Clifton are among the highest in New Jersey, placing a significant financial burden on homeowners. This contributes to the overall high cost of living in the area.

Crime rates in certain neighborhoods of Clifton are higher than the state average, raising concerns about safety and security. The city’s aging infrastructure, including roads and public facilities, requires substantial improvements.

Clifton’s public schools have received mixed reviews, with some performing below state standards. This can be a drawback for families seeking quality education options.

Limited green spaces and recreational areas within the city boundaries leave residents with fewer options for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Reasons Behind Unfavorable Living Conditions

A rundown neighborhood with dilapidated houses, overgrown yards, and littered streets. Abandoned buildings and graffiti add to the sense of neglect and decline

New Jersey’s least desirable areas face multiple challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. These issues stem from various interconnected factors affecting local communities.

Economic Factors

High unemployment rates plague many of New Jersey’s struggling areas. Job losses in manufacturing and other industries have left some cities with limited employment opportunities. This economic decline often leads to reduced tax revenues for local governments.

Lower funding affects public services and infrastructure maintenance. Some municipalities struggle to provide adequate resources for schools, parks, and community programs. This creates a cycle of declining property values and reduced attractiveness to new businesses and residents.

High costs of living exacerbate economic challenges. New Jersey’s expensive housing market and steep property taxes strain household budgets. Many residents in these areas face financial pressure, making it difficult to improve their situations or move to more prosperous neighborhoods.

Crime Rates

Several New Jersey cities grapple with elevated crime levels. Drug-related offenses, property crimes, and violent incidents contribute to safety concerns in certain neighborhoods. Gang activity remains a persistent issue in some urban areas, affecting residents’ sense of security.

Limited police resources in underfunded municipalities can hinder effective crime prevention and response. This leads to longer emergency response times and reduced community policing efforts. The perception of high crime rates deters new residents and businesses from moving to these areas.

Some communities struggle with a lack of youth programs and after-school activities. This absence of positive outlets can contribute to juvenile delinquency and perpetuate cycles of criminal behavior.

Quality of Education

Underperforming schools plague many of New Jersey’s least desirable areas. Budget constraints often result in outdated facilities, limited resources, and overcrowded classrooms. These factors can negatively impact student learning outcomes and educational experiences.

Teacher retention poses a challenge in struggling districts. Low salaries and difficult working conditions can lead to high turnover rates. This instability affects the continuity of education and the development of strong student-teacher relationships.

Limited extracurricular activities and advanced course offerings restrict opportunities for students. This can hinder college preparedness and future career prospects. The perception of poor school quality also discourages families from moving to these areas, further affecting local demographics and community development.

Impact on Residents

The scene depicts rundown buildings, littered streets, and disheveled neighborhoods. The atmosphere is gloomy and desolate, with a sense of neglect and despair

Living in New Jersey’s worst places can significantly affect residents’ quality of life. These areas often face challenges that impact health, safety, and access to essential resources.

Health Concerns

Poor air quality plagues several of New Jersey’s worst-rated areas. Industrial emissions and heavy traffic contribute to higher rates of respiratory illnesses. Asthma rates in these locations often exceed state averages.

Some neighborhoods struggle with contaminated water sources. Lead pipes and industrial runoff have tainted drinking water in certain communities. This poses serious health risks, especially for children and pregnant women.

Lack of green spaces and recreational areas limits outdoor activities. This contributes to higher obesity rates and related health issues. Mental health problems also increase due to stress from living in high-crime or economically depressed areas.

Community Resources

Many of these areas suffer from underfunded schools. This leads to overcrowded classrooms and outdated materials. Students in these districts often perform below state averages on standardized tests.

Public transportation options are limited in some locations. This makes it difficult for residents to access job opportunities or medical care outside their immediate area.

Local libraries and community centers may have reduced hours or services. This limits access to educational resources and social programs.

Some neighborhoods lack adequate grocery stores with fresh produce. This creates “food deserts” where residents struggle to maintain healthy diets.

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