Jacksonville, Florida, stands as the largest city in the state, both in terms of population and area, offering a diverse range of experiences for its residents and visitors. Nevertheless, not all neighborhoods within Jacksonville boast the same level of desirability.
Some grapple with elevated crime rates, lower income levels, subpar educational opportunities, and limited amenities. In this article, we will explore several neighborhoods in Jacksonville that face these challenges, as indicated by data from various sources.
1. Moncrief Park
Moncrief Park, while historically significant as one of Jacksonville’s oldest neighborhoods, unfortunately grapples with numerous issues. According to data from NeighborhoodScout, this area records a violent crime rate of 1,434 per 100,000 residents, which is over four times the national average.
Moreover, Moncrief Park faces a staggering poverty rate of 46%, an unemployment rate of 18%, and a median household income of merely $19,000. The neighborhood contends with urban decay, neglect, and blight and offers few attractions or amenities for its inhabitants.
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2. Mid-Westside
Mid-Westside, once a bustling industrial hub, now finds itself in a state of decline and poses safety concerns for its residents. With a violent crime rate of 1,217 per 100,000 residents, over three times the national average, and a poverty rate of 38%, an unemployment rate of 15%, and a median household income of just $23,000, this neighborhood grapples with vacant buildings, littered lots, and deteriorating homes. It also lacks fundamental services and amenities.
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3. 45th and Moncrief
Adjacent to Moncrief Park, 45th and Moncrief shares its neighbor’s challenges with crime and poverty. The neighborhood reports a violent crime rate of 1,179 per 100,000 residents, more than three times the national average.
The poverty rate stands at 44%, accompanied by an unemployment rate of 17%, and a median household income of only $20,000. 45th and Moncrief offers limited safety, quality of life, and opportunities for its residents.
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4. Edgewood Manor
Located on Jacksonville’s west side, Edgewood Manor has a reputation for its elevated crime levels and lower income status. The neighborhood witnesses a violent crime rate of 1,062 per 100,000 residents, nearly three times the national average, along with a poverty rate of 35%, an unemployment rate of 14%, and a median household income of only $25,000.
Edgewood Manor falls short in providing attractions or amenities to its residents and faces social issues such as drug abuse and gang violence.
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5. New Town
Situated near downtown Jacksonville, New Town, while one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, also faces significant disadvantages. With a violent crime rate of 1,030 per 100,000 residents, nearly three times the national average, along with a poverty rate of 40%, an unemployment rate of 16%, and a median household income of only $21,000, New Town grapples with historic charm and persistent issues like homelessness, prostitution, and vandalism.
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Conclusion
These neighborhoods represent some of the more challenging areas in Jacksonville, Florida. They confront high crime rates, poverty, unemployment, and lower income levels, as well as limited access to education, healthcare, and amenities. While not ideal choices for living or visiting, it’s essential to note that these neighborhoods are not devoid of hope or potential.
Numerous community organizations and initiatives are actively working to enhance the living conditions and prospects in these areas. With sufficient support and resources, these neighborhoods could potentially transform into more vibrant and promising places to call home in the future.