Duval County, situated in Northeast Florida, is characterized by its vastness and diversity, boasting a population of over 950,000 residents spread across 20 cities and towns. While certain areas within the county are renowned for their safety, prosperity, and quality of life, others grapple with issues related to crime, poverty, and social challenges.
In this article, we will delve into the five neighborhoods in Duval County that face the highest crime rates, as per data provided by SpotCrime, which meticulously tracks crime incidents down to the neighborhood level. A higher number of crimes per 1,000 residents is indicative of a more perilous neighborhood.
5. East Jacksonville
Nestled in the northeastern part of Duval County, along the picturesque St. Johns River, East Jacksonville is a historic neighborhood predominantly comprised of African-American residents, accounting for about 80% of its population. Regrettably, East Jacksonville bears a crime rate of 72.6 per 1,000 residents, a staggering figure that is more than twice the national average.
The area grapples with a notably high incidence of violent crimes like murder, rape, robbery, and assault, in addition to property crimes including burglary, theft, and arson. The most vulnerable areas within East Jacksonville can be found along East Union Street and North Main Street.
4. Mid-Westside
Mid-Westside, situated in the northwest part of Duval County near the border with Clay County, is a low-income neighborhood afflicted by a high crime rate. It’s characterized by public housing projects and run-down apartments.
According to SpotCrime, Mid-Westside reports a crime rate of 74.8 per 1,000 residents, again exceeding the national average by a significant margin. Violent crimes such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, along with property crimes like burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, are prevalent in this area. The most concerning crime hotspots in Mid-Westside are along West Beaver Street and North Edgewood Avenue.
3. Moncrief Park
Positioned in the northern part of Duval County, near the border with Nassau County, Moncrief Park is predominantly inhabited by African-American residents, constituting around 95% of its population. Unfortunately, this neighborhood grapples with a high crime rate of 76.9 per 1,000 residents, once again surpassing the national average by a substantial margin.
Violent crimes, including murder, rape, robbery, and assault, as well as property crimes like burglary, theft, and arson, are pervasive in Moncrief Park. The areas most affected by crime in Moncrief Park are along Moncrief Road and West 45th Street.
2. New Town
New Town, situated in the western part of Duval County near the border with Baker County, is an historic neighborhood characterized by homes dating back to the early 1900s. Unfortunately, it also contends with a high crime rate, standing at 80.2 per 1,000 residents, once more exceeding the national average.
Violent crimes, such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, as well as property crimes including burglary, theft, and arson, plague this area. The most crime-prone regions in New Town can be identified along West State Street and North Myrtle Avenue.
1. Springfield
Springfield, a neighborhood in the heart of Duval County near downtown Jacksonville, is one of the city’s oldest areas, adorned with historic buildings and landmarks. Yet, it bears the unfortunate distinction of having the highest crime rate among Duval County’s neighborhoods, standing at a daunting 83.4 crimes per 1,000 residents, more than double the national average.
Violent crimes, such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, along with property crimes including burglary, theft, and arson, are rampant here. The areas most affected by crime in Springfield are along East 8th Street and North Main Street.
Conclusion
Duval County, marked by its diversity and vitality, offers numerous attractions and opportunities for both its residents and visitors. However, it is evident that not all areas within the county enjoy the same level of safety and prosperity. Some neighborhoods confront more pronounced challenges such as crime, poverty, and social issues.
Addressing these issues necessitates increased attention and investment from local and state governments, as well as the active involvement of private and nonprofit sectors. By doing so, Duval County can move towards becoming a more equitable and inclusive community for all of its residents.