Largest cities in New Jersey

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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: 290,764 Livability Score: 67

Area Size: 63 KM² Density (sq mi): 12,043 Med. Household Income: $55,278

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: 268,546 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 38 KM² Density (sq mi): 18,151 Med. Household Income: $114,406

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: 149,118 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 22 KM² Density (sq mi): 17,724 Med. Household Income: $66,412

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: 131,890 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 32 KM² Density (sq mi): 10,706 Med. Household Income: $75,879

Elizabeth, New Jersey, one of the stateâ€™s 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: 93,337 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 101 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,391 Med. Household Income: $120,891

Living in Toms River, NJ offers a unique coastal lifestyle with a rich history and a vibrant community. Known for its beautiful beaches and maritime heritage, Toms River is a popular destination for families and retirees alike. The city's historic downtown area is charming, with the Toms River Seaport Society and Maritime Museum highlighting the region's nautical past.

Clifton Population: 87,331 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 29 KM² Density (sq mi): 7,748 Med. Household Income: $121,687

Living in Clifton, NJ offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the bustling metropolis of New York City. Known for its diverse community and convenient location, Clifton is a city that embraces cultural variety and offers something for everyone. The cityâ€™s dining scene reflects its multicultural population, with a range of restaurants offering everything from Italian to Middle Eastern cuisine.

Trenton Population: 86,528 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 20 KM² Density (sq mi): 11,440 Med. Household Income: $55,363

Living in Trenton, NJ offers a unique blend of history, culture, and urban living. As the capital of New Jersey, Trenton is a city rich in American history, known for its pivotal role in the Revolutionary War. The cityâ€™s historic sites, including the Old Barracks Museum and the Trenton Battle Monument, provide residents with a deep connection to the nationâ€™s past.

Camden Population: 76,587 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 23 KM² Density (sq mi): 8,587 Med. Household Income: $42,470

Passaic Population: 72,139 Livability Score: 59

Area Size: 8 KM² Density (sq mi): 23,026 Med. Household Income: $67,247

Union City Population: 70,743 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 3 KM² Density (sq mi): 54,967 Med. Household Income: $75,022

Full list of the largest cities in New Jersey

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Newark	290,764	63	$55,278	67
2	Jersey City	268,546	38	$114,406	77
3	Paterson	149,118	22	$66,412	69
4	Elizabeth	131,890	32	$75,879	69
5	Toms River	93,337	101	$120,891	81
6	Clifton	87,331	29	$121,687	77
7	Trenton	86,528	20	$55,363	76
8	Camden	76,587	23	$42,470	70
9	Passaic	72,139	8	$67,247	59
10	Union City	70,743	3	$75,022	77
11	Bayonne	66,963	15	$102,104	75
12	East Orange	66,655	10	$76,618	73
13	Vineland	60,891	177	$83,096	66
14	New Brunswick	57,400	14	$65,997	75
15	Lakewood	57,098	18	$76,092	65
16	Hoboken	55,010	3	$224,969	82
17	West New York	54,664	3	$97,584	77
18	Perth Amboy	53,480	12	$79,417	69
19	Plainfield	51,295	15	$85,643	65
20	Hackensack	46,005	11	$107,851	83
21	Sayreville	45,370	41	$120,934	82
22	Linden	43,551	28	$112,218	67
23	Kearny	42,471	23	$110,794	59
24	Fort Lee	39,239	7	$132,020	89
25	Atlantic City	38,810	28	$43,880	55
26	Fair Lawn	33,940	13	$196,372	85
27	Garfield	32,363	5	$96,423	72
28	Princeton	32,045	46	$214,729	87
29	Long Branch	31,244	13	$93,468	71
30	Rahway	30,734	10	$117,549	82
31	Westfield	30,292	17	$231,795	87
32	Englewood	29,019	13	$130,299	76
33	Old Bridge	28,566	18	$139,497	66
34	Bergenfield	28,186	8	$152,992	85
35	Millville	28,134	109	$94,391	63
36	Paramus	27,330	27	$195,735	82
37	Cliffside Park	26,315	2	$126,526	78
38	Ridgewood	25,810	15	$266,584	88
39	Lodi	25,017	6	$96,299	67
40	Bridgeton	24,883	16	$57,521	71
41	Somerset	24,856	16	$139,904	74
42	South Plainfield	24,668	21	$162,018	75
43	Carteret	24,081	11	$112,831	73
44	Summit	22,539	16	$214,063	84
45	Roselle	22,321	7	$97,520	81
46	North Plainfield	22,015	7	$114,417	66
47	Palisades Park	21,216	3	$116,393	82
48	Secaucus	21,080	15	$187,234	74
49	Woodbridge	20,955	10	$139,881	84
50	Pleasantville	20,927	15	$61,712	73

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.