One of the most common questions from those planning to move to Jacksonville is, "Is Jacksonville safe?"

To be honest, Jacksonville has a relatively high crime rate compared to other major cities in the U.S.

Particularly, some areas are classified as significantly dangerous even within the U.S. However, it is an exaggeration to say that Jacksonville as a whole is unsafe.

Your sense of safety can vary greatly depending on which neighborhood you live in. It is important to know the facts based on data.

According to FBI crime statistics and reports from the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (JSO), the violent crime rate in Jacksonville is higher than the average for U.S. cities.

This is mainly concentrated in the Northside and some areas of the Westside, as well as around downtown. Specifically, certain high-risk areas in the Northside (around Edwin Street, around Sherrill Road, etc.) experience repeated incidents of gun violence and drug-related crimes. The Eastside and Edison areas also show relatively high rates of violent crime.

On the other hand, neighborhoods like Mandarin, Southside, Ponte Vedra Beach, and Riverside have lower crime rates and a higher sense of safety. Southside and Mandarin, where many Korean families reside, are considered relatively safe neighborhoods in Jacksonville.

Arlington has some variation within the area, with some parts being fine and others requiring caution. Overall, areas east and south of I-95 tend to be safer than those to the north and west.

Auto theft is also a crime to be cautious of in Jacksonville. It is important to avoid leaving valuables in your car when parking and to develop the habit of completely closing and locking your windows. If bags or electronic devices are visible in your car, it can easily become a target for theft.

Burglary rates are also high in some areas, so it is recommended to install front door cameras or alarm systems for home security. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office provides a crime map on its website. It is strongly advised to check the crime occurrences near your prospective address before moving in.