I have lived in this area for about two years and in those two years it has gotten a lot better. Some of the homes and apt buildings are beautiful. I did get broken into, but that was my fault because I left the window open. Weirdest thing I have seen is some guy jacking off on the sidewalk in broad daylight but you can see that anywhere; never saw him again after that day. One thing to look out for are buildings owned by slumlords. They rent it cheap or the residents get Section Eight. The slumlords don't maintain the buildings and the tenants are not much better. I don't mean to paint with a broad brush but the only ones that you will notice are degenerates. But it is up and coming in my opinion.

Jersey City can be dangerous, especially for the police but when you hear stuff like this it makes you wonder about the people who are supposed to be "protecting" us.

However, every encounter (albeit I have not had many) I have had with the JC police has been respectful on both ends.

Are there beginner classes and do I have to buy all sorts of expensive outfits or can I just wear shorts?