Jackson, Tn. (Memphis, Milan, Henderson: crime, neighborhoods, public schools)

[margarethdean]

We are considering moving to Jackson. What areas are preferred to live in? Which zip codes are the best? How is the crime is Jackson?
Thanks, Margaret

[the_commuter]

Crime in Jackson is considerably higher than the national average (both violent and property crime). However, crime in Jackson is highly concentrated in certain parts of town. North Jackson (and, by extension, north Madison County) are good areas. You'll find that most of the major chain businesses in town in located in north Jackson, making them more convenient to folks who live in that area. There are certainly good areas in other parts of town, but they are a bit more remote, pretty far removed from good restaurants, shopping, etc. Example: I have family in Malesus, which is a small community in south Jackson; there are some great neighborhoods there, but they are far removed from most stores, restaurants, etc. There are also some great small towns outside of Jackson -- Henderson to the south and Medina and Milan to the north, for example. The schools in some of these outlying areas are perceived as better; thus, these small towns have grown considerably over the last few years.

[csugrad1113]

Honestly, I would tell you to consider living elsewhere unless you have a specific need to live in Jackson, such as needing to live within a certain distance from work due to call or needing to be near a relative. All of Jackson, including the north Jackson area, has experienced crime much higher than neighboring towns in recent years and it seems in the past 3-6 months that it has increased even more, particularly in "safe" areas such as north Jackson, which has recently seen murders, break ins, and a small scale but none the less scary school shooting at what was considered one of the better public schools. I have lived in Jackson for 7 years and was here often for years before that because this is the only place for semi-decent medical care, shopping, and restaurants unless you want to go to Nashville or Memphis, and I can tell you it has gone down hill since I first moved here, and I plan to move farther out within the next few years if I can afford it.