New Jersey is a state with many attractions, such as the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City, and the Statue of Liberty. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as high taxes, traffic congestion, and crime. These factors have led many people to flee these communities as soon as possible, seeking better lives elsewhere. Here are seven of the top cities and towns in New Jersey that people are leaving behind.

1. Camden

Camden consistently ranks among the most perilous cities in America, boasting a violent crime rate 6.6 times higher than the national average. It also suffers from poverty, unemployment, and poor education. The city has lost over 10% of its population since 2000, and many of its residents are looking for safer and more prosperous places to live.

2. Newark

As New Jersey’s largest city, Newark is plagued by a history of corruption, crime, and civil unrest. It has one of the highest murder rates in the country, and its schools are among the worst-performing in the state. The city has seen a steady decline in population since the 1960s, and many of its residents are moving to neighboring towns or other states.

3. Trenton

Although the capital of New Jersey, Trenton fails to offer much to its residents. It has a high poverty rate, a low median income, and a struggling economy. It also faces issues such as gang violence, drug trafficking, and political scandals. The city has lost over 8% of its population since 2000, and many of its residents are seeking better opportunities elsewhere.

4. Atlantic City

Atlantic City was once a booming tourist destination, famous for its casinos, boardwalk, and beaches. However, in recent years, it has faced a decline in revenue, a rise in competition, and a series of bankruptcies. The city has also been hit hard by natural disasters, such as Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The city has lost over 6% of its population since 2000, and many of its residents are leaving for more stable and prosperous places.

5. Paterson

Paterson is the third-largest city in New Jersey, but it is also one of the most troubled. It has a high crime rate, a low graduation rate, and a large number of abandoned buildings. It also suffers from environmental problems, such as flooding, pollution, and contamination. The city has lost over 5% of its population since 2000, and many of its residents are looking for more livable and sustainable places to live.

6. Lakewood

Lakewood is a town that has experienced rapid population growth in recent years, mainly due to the influx of Orthodox Jewish families. However, this has also created tensions and conflicts with the existing residents, who are mostly Hispanic and African American. The town has also faced challenges such as overcrowding, traffic, and zoning disputes. Many of the original residents are leaving the town for more diverse and harmonious communities.

7. Keansburg

Keansburg is a coastal town that has suffered from the effects of climate change, such as erosion, flooding, and storm damage. It has also been affected by the decline of the tourism industry, which was once its main source of income. The town has lost over 4% of its population since 2000, and many of its residents are moving to higher and drier grounds.

Conclusion

New Jersey is a state that has a lot to offer, but it also has some drawbacks that make some of its cities and towns less appealing to live in. Many of its residents are fleeing these places as soon as possible, looking for better quality of life, safety, and opportunities. These are some of the top cities and towns in New Jersey that people are leaving behind.