DELAWARE - For a state known for its dense population and compact size, New Jersey is organized into a straightforward 21 counties. This simple number, however, belies a deep history that stretches back to the 17th century, when the state was divided into two separate colonies.
From the bustling urban centers of the north to the quiet agricultural communities and coastal shore towns of the south, each county has a distinct identity. Here is a complete overview of New Jersey's 21 counties, their history, and some unique facts.
The 21 Counties of New Jersey
Each county serves as a significant administrative district, operating its own government, court system, and county seat.
Fast Facts: NJ Counties by the Numbers
While the state has 21 counties in total, they are far from uniform. They range dramatically in size, population, and density.
-
Most Populous: Bergen County, a dense suburban county bordering New York City.
-
Least Populous: Salem County, a largely rural and agricultural county in the state's southwest corner.
-
Largest by Area: Burlington County, which stretches from the Philadelphia suburbs to the Pine Barrens.
-
Smallest by Area: Hudson County, a small, densely packed peninsula that includes Jersey City and Hoboken.
-
Most Densely Populated: Hudson County is not only the smallest county by area but also the most densely populated in all of New Jersey.
A History Forged in Two: The Original Counties
The 21 counties of today evolved from a much simpler map. In the late 1600s, New Jersey was not a single entity but was split into two distinct proprietorships: East Jersey and West Jersey.
-
The Original East Jersey Counties (1683): Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, and Monmouth.
-
The Original West Jersey Counties (1681-1694): Burlington and Salem.
These original divisions are the foundation of the state's current map. All other 15 counties were eventually carved out of these original territories over the next 175 years.
The Last County to be Formed: The final piece of the puzzle was Union County, which was formed in 1857. It was created from a portion of Essex County, and its name was chosen to champion national unity during the tense years leading up to the Civil War.
