Same applies here in SE PA. The Philly collar counties are the haven. As long as you avoid malls/movie theaters that are on SEPTA lines, you’re generally ok.
PA allows CCW, in NJ you are lamb waiting to be slaughtered.
I have family out by Trooper; Norristown seems to be the local slum. Asked a cop there for directions one night; he had a huge dog in the car with him...