Mercer County, situated in New Jersey, is a dynamic and diverse region. It boasts the state’s capital, Trenton, the renowned Princeton University, and an array of historical and cultural treasures. Nevertheless, Mercer County’s safety and tranquility aren’t uniform throughout its various areas.
Analyzing crime statistics and mapping data reveals disparities in crime rates among Mercer County neighborhoods. This discrepancy renders some neighborhoods notably riskier for both residents and visitors. Here, we present the top five most dangerous neighborhoods in Mercer County, New Jersey, based on 2023 crime data.
Trenton Central West
This district resides in the western-central area of Trenton, which serves as both the county seat and the largest city within Mercer County. It is geographically defined by the Delaware River to the west, Route 29 to the north, Hermitage Avenue to the east, and Perry Street to the south. Trenton Central West has a population of roughly 14,000 residents, predominantly comprising African American and Hispanic communities.
This neighborhood also grapples with a significant poverty rate, standing at 38%, considerably higher than the county-wide average of 11%. Notably, Trenton Central West holds the unfortunate distinction of being Mercer County’s most perilous locality, boasting a crime rate of 63.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, more than double the county’s average rate of 28.6.
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Trenton East Trenton
This neighborhood lies in the northeastern region of Trenton, bordering the city of Ewing. Its boundaries are defined by Pennington Avenue to the west, Olden Avenue to the north, Ewing Street to the east, and North Clinton Avenue to the south.
East Trenton, part of Trenton, has a population of approximately 16,000 residents, primarily consisting of African American and Hispanic communities. The area also grapples with a significant poverty rate of 34%, which is considerably higher than the county’s average of 11%.
Furthermore, East Trenton ranks as the second most crime-prone neighborhood in Mercer County, boasting a crime rate of 56.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, nearly twice the countywide average of 28.6.
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Trenton Downtown
This neighborhood, situated in the heart of Trenton, encompasses the city’s historic and commercial center. It is bordered by Route 29 to the west, Perry Street to the north, Broad Street to the east, and Cass Street to the south.
Trenton Downtown is home to approximately 8,000 residents, with a predominantly African American and Hispanic population. The area also grapples with a high poverty rate of 32%, which is significantly higher than the county’s average of 11%.
Furthermore, Trenton Downtown ranks as the third most crime-prone neighborhood in Mercer County, boasting a crime rate of 51.8 incidents per 1,000 residents—nearly double the countywide average of 28.6.
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Trenton South Trenton
This neighborhood, situated in the southern part of Trenton and bordering Pennsylvania, is defined by its boundaries: Lalor Street to the west, Hamilton Avenue to the north, Route 1 to the east, and the Morrisville Bridge to the south.
With a population of approximately 18,000 residents, Trenton South Trenton is predominantly composed of Hispanic and African American communities.
It faces a significant poverty rate, measuring at 31%, which surpasses the county’s average of 11%. In terms of safety, Trenton South Trenton ranks as the fourth most dangerous neighborhood in Mercer County, with a crime rate of 49.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, nearly double the county-wide average of 28.6.
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Hamilton Township Bromley
This neighborhood lies in the southeastern part of Hamilton Township, Mercer County’s second-largest municipality. It is bordered by Whitehorse-Mercerville Road on the west, Klockner Road on the north, Nottingham Way on the east, and Lalor Street on the south. Hamilton Township Bromley is home to approximately 10,000 residents, with a predominantly African American and Hispanic population.
The area also faces significant socioeconomic challenges, with a poverty rate of 24%, which is considerably higher than the county average of 11%. Furthermore, Hamilton Township Bromley ranks as the fifth most crime-prone neighborhood in Mercer County, boasting a crime rate of 40.9 per 1,000 residents, nearly 50% above the county average of 28.6.
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Conclusion
Here are the top five dangerous neighborhoods in Mercer County, New Jersey, as per the 2023 crime statistics. Despite the challenges and safety concerns in these areas, they also present several advantages and opportunities, including vibrant community organizations, cultural diversity, and significant historical landmarks.
Both residents and visitors should remain vigilant about the crime rates in these localities, while also showing respect and extending support to the individuals who call these neighborhoods home or work there. Mercer County, with its natural beauty and dynamic atmosphere, has something valuable to offer to everyone.
