Largest cities in New Jersey

New Jersey, known for its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 9.2 million, it ranks as the 11th most populated state in the U.S. New Jersey has experienced stable population growth, driven by its thriving economy and appealing living conditions. Bordered by New York to the north and east, the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast, Delaware to the southwest, and Pennsylvania to the west, New Jersey offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 565 cities and towns.

Living in New Jersey provides residents with numerous advantages, including access to top-tier education, a strong job market, and a rich cultural scene. The state's high population density in major urban areas creates a dynamic and energetic atmosphere, while its rural areas offer tranquility and space. New Jersey's economy is diverse, with strengths in technology, healthcare, and finance. The state's stable population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in New Jersey, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers a comprehensive overview of New Jersey cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Newark Population: 281,917 Livability Score: 67

Area Size: 63 KM² Density (sq mi): 11,677 Med. Household Income: $37,476

Newark, NJ, known as 'The Brick City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in northern New Jersey, Newark is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like New York City and Jersey City enhance its status as a central point in the region. Newark's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Jersey City Population: 262,652 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 38 KM² Density (sq mi): 17,815 Med. Household Income: $76,444

Jersey City, NJ, often referred to as 'The Sixth Borough,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in northeastern New Jersey, Jersey City is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like New York City and Newark enhance its status as a central point in the region. Jersey City's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Paterson Population: 145,484 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 22 KM² Density (sq mi): 17,292 Med. Household Income: $45,141

Paterson, NJ, known as 'The Silk City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Passaic County, Paterson is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Newark (15 miles) and New York City (20 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Paterson's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Elizabeth Population: 128,484 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 32 KM² Density (sq mi): 10,430 Med. Household Income: $50,647

Elizabeth, New Jersey, one of the stateâs oldest cities, offers a rich blend of history and modern urban living. Located just across the river from New York City, Elizabeth provides its residents with the convenience of a major metropolitan area while retaining a distinct, small-city charm. The city's waterfront area, known as the Elizabeth Waterfront, features scenic views, parks, and recreational opportunities.

Toms River Population: 90,081 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 101 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,310 Med. Household Income: $80,145

Toms River, NJ - A Coastal Haven"; echo "

Clifton Population: 85,201 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 29 KM² Density (sq mi): 7,557 Med. Household Income: $83,086

Clifton, NJ - A City of Diversity and Convenience"; echo "

Trenton Population: 83,387 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 20 KM² Density (sq mi): 10,963 Med. Household Income: $37,002

Trenton, NJ - The Capital City with Historic Roots"; echo "

Camden Population: 73,742 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 23 KM² Density (sq mi): 8,268 Med. Household Income: $28,623

Passaic Population: 69,789 Livability Score: 60

Area Size: 8 KM² Density (sq mi): 22,276 Med. Household Income: $44,779

Union City Population: 68,073 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 3 KM² Density (sq mi): 52,892 Med. Household Income: $49,457

Full list of the largest cities in New Jersey

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Newark	281,917	63	$37,476	67
2	Jersey City	262,652	38	$76,444	82
3	Paterson	145,484	22	$45,141	73
4	Elizabeth	128,484	32	$50,647	69
5	Toms River	90,081	101	$80,145	81
6	Clifton	85,201	29	$83,086	78
7	Trenton	83,387	20	$37,002	76
8	Camden	73,742	23	$28,623	70
9	Passaic	69,789	8	$44,779	60
10	Union City	68,073	3	$49,457	77
11	Bayonne	65,112	15	$69,511	75
12	East Orange	64,650	10	$50,990	74
13	Vineland	59,405	177	$55,740	66
14	New Brunswick	55,992	14	$43,930	74
15	Lakewood	55,039	18	$50,139	66
16	Hoboken	53,283	3	$153,438	83
17	West New York	52,778	3	$64,378	77
18	Perth Amboy	51,589	12	$54,188	70
19	Plainfield	50,252	15	$58,400	65
20	Hackensack	44,266	11	$71,079	82
21	Sayreville	44,243	41	$82,693	83
22	Linden	42,332	28	$75,084	66
23	Kearny	41,190	23	$73,554	59
24	Fort Lee	37,843	7	$88,457	88
25	Atlantic City	37,793	28	$29,526	55
26	Fair Lawn	32,986	13	$129,965	85
27	Garfield	31,722	5	$64,242	72
28	Princeton	31,161	46	$146,127	88
29	Long Branch	30,424	13	$62,027	72
30	Rahway	29,691	10	$77,393	80
31	Westfield	29,690	17	$158,323	87
32	Englewood	28,390	13	$86,485	74
33	Old Bridge	27,836	18	$94,853	66
34	Millville	27,485	109	$63,182	65
35	Bergenfield	27,375	8	$102,724	84
36	Paramus	26,403	27	$130,273	82
37	Cliffside Park	25,410	2	$83,989	78
38	Ridgewood	25,110	15	$178,958	88
39	Lodi	24,389	6	$64,249	67
40	Bridgeton	24,264	16	$38,319	74
41	Somerset	24,119	16	$93,643	74
42	South Plainfield	23,961	21	$108,244	75
43	Carteret	23,501	11	$76,276	72
44	Summit	21,913	16	$142,845	84
45	Roselle	21,699	7	$65,307	81
46	North Plainfield	21,445	7	$77,160	65
47	Palisades Park	20,693	3	$79,063	81
48	Secaucus	20,667	15	$125,142	74
49	Woodbridge	20,500	10	$93,837	83
50	Pleasantville	20,226	15	$41,718	74

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in New Jersey, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.