96-641: Ocean County is a county located in the U.S. state of New Jersey and the southernmost county in the New York metropolitan area . The county borders the Atlantic Ocean on the east and in terms of total area is the state's largest county. Its county seat is Toms River . The county is part of the Jersey Shore and is considered part of the Central Jersey region of the state, though it
192-402: A New Jersey Superior Court judge. The following month, Burlington County Republicans filed suit, claiming that Eckel should be removed from office and the seat left vacant until November 2022, because the statutory timeline for the appointment was not followed. Two federal Congressional Districts cover the county. Most of the county is in the 3rd District, with a sliver in the west being in
288-494: A cadre of civilian staff. The Administrative Bureau includes Community Outreach, Recruiting, Civil Process, and Internal Affairs. The Operations Bureau is headed by an undersheriff and includes a Sheriff's Sergeant. The Operations Bureau includes the Warrant/Fugitive Section, K9 Operations, Patrol, Emergency Services Unit (ESU), and Special Operations. The Courts Division is headed by an undersheriff and includes
384-578: A county is a local level of government between the state and municipalities. County government in New Jersey includes a Board of County Commissioners , sheriff, clerk, and surrogate (responsible for uncontested and routine probate), all of which are elected officials. Counties organized under the Optional County Charter Law may also have an elected county executive . Counties traditionally perform state-mandated duties such as
480-444: A female householder with no husband present and 29.5% were non-families. Of all households, 24.4% were made up of individuals and 9.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.62 and the average family size was 3.14. 23.2% of the population were under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 25.4% from 25 to 44, 29.2% from 45 to 64, and 13.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age
576-564: A partition to the north led to the creation of Hunterdon County . Hunterdon County itself was further divided over time, resulting in the formation of three additional counties: Morris , Sussex and Warren . Initially, the county seat was in Burlington . However, as the population began to increase and spread toward the interior of the province, away from the Delaware River , a more central location became necessary. Consequently,
672-438: A proposal whereby each senator's vote would be weighted based on the population of the county represented, under which Cape May County 's senator would receive one vote while the senator from Essex County would receive 19.1 votes, in direct relation to the ratio of residents between counties. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that it was unconstitutional for the senate to adopt a weighted voting system unilaterally. In 1966,
768-570: A record low of −19 °F (−28 °C) was recorded in January 1982 and a record high of 105 °F (41 °C) was recorded in July 1999. Average monthly temperatures in Tuckerton near the south end range from 33.2 °F (0.7 °C) in January to 75.7 °F (24.3 °C) in July. The highest monthly average temperature for the county was 78.8 °F (26.0 °C) in July 2020; the lowest
864-464: A sheriff's officer, a lieutenant, two sergeants and Sheriff's officers. This section provides security to the courts and the State Judiciary. Notable former sheriffs include William Norton Shinn (1825-1828), Samuel A. Dobbins (1854-1857), and Jean Stanfield (2001-2019). The county is also home to the majority of 42,000-acre (17,000 ha) megabase, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst ,
960-639: A special election could be held on November 5, 2019. In 2019, Democrat Anthony Basantis defeated Republican Michael Ditzel in the Sheriff election, replacing retired Republican Sheriff Jean Stanfield , who was elected to the State Assembly . In the regular election for one freeholder position, Democrat Linda A. Hynes defeated Republican Incumbent Latham Tiver. In the special election for the remaining 2 years of George Youngkin's term, incumbent Democrat Daniel J. O’Connell, who had originally been appointed to
1056-683: A system under which each county was represented by a single member in the New Jersey Senate . The court ruled unanimously that the existing system was unconstitutional, ordered that interim measures be established by statute for the 1965 legislative elections, and ordered that the needed constitutional changes to restructure the New Jersey Legislature to be in compliance with "one man, one vote" requirements be in place before elections took place in 1967. The senate unilaterally—by internal rule, not by statute—enacted
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#17327728415771152-447: Is Lakewood Township , with an estimated 139,866 residents as of 2023, while Jackson Township covers 100.62 square miles (260.6 km), the largest total area of any municipality in the county. Ocean County is located 50 miles (80 km) east of Philadelphia , 70 miles (110 km) south of New York City , and 25 miles (40 km) north of Atlantic City , making it a prime vacation destination for residents of these cities during
1248-585: Is Union County , created in 1857 and named after the union of the United States when the Civil War was imminent. New Jersey's county names derive from several sources, though most of its counties are named after place names in England and prominent leaders in the colonial and revolutionary periods. Bergen County is the most populous county—as of the 2010 Census—with 905,116 people, while Salem County
1344-911: Is also home to several state parks : ShoreTown Ballpark located in Lakewood, opened in 2001 with 6,588 reserved seats and is home of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws , the High-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies . The Asbury Park Press and The Press of Atlantic City are daily newspapers that cover Ocean County. Micromedia Publications publishes six weekly local newspapers in the county; their seventh covers Howell Township, New Jersey in Monmouth County, New Jersey . 92.7 WOBM provides news, traffic and weather updates. WOBM-FM radio started broadcasting from
1440-782: Is also home to the county's only Roman Catholic high school, Monsignor Donovan High School , operated by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Trenton , which also has six elementary schools located in the county. In addition to multiple public high schools , the county has an extensive vocational high school program, known as the Ocean County Vocational Technical School district. In addition to its campuses in Brick , Toms River, Waretown , and Jackson , it contains three magnet schools : Ocean County has an extensive shoreline stretching along
1536-525: Is governed by a Board of County Commissioners comprised of five members who are elected on an at-large basis in partisan elections and serving staggered three-year terms of office, with either one or two seats coming up for election each year as part of the November general election. At an annual reorganization held in the beginning of January, the board chooses a Director and a deputy director from among its members. In 2016, freeholders were paid $ 30,000 and
1632-534: Is headed by a sheriff elected to a three-year term. The sheriff is James H. Kostoplis, elected in 2023. It is a member of the New York-New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force. The department has an Administrative Bureau, Operations Bureau and a Courts Bureau. The Administrative Bureau is headed by an Undersheriff and includes a Chief Warrant Officer, Sheriff's Lieutenant, two Sheriff's Sergeants, Sheriff's Officers and
1728-532: Is in Toms River and was founded in 1964. Georgian Court University in Lakewood Township is a private Roman Catholic Sisters of Mercy college, which opened in 1908 on the former winter estate of millionaire George Jay Gould I , son of railroad tycoon Jay Gould . Lakewood is also home to Beth Medrash Govoha , a Haredi yeshiva with 5,000 students, making it one of the largest yeshivas in
1824-669: Is the least populous with 66,083 people. Until the 1960s, the New Jersey Senate had 21 representatives, one from each county regardless of population. In the wake of the 1964 decision by the Supreme Court of the United States in Reynolds v. Sims , establishing the one man, one vote principle that state legislative districts must be approximately equal in size, David Friedland filed suit in New Jersey Supreme Court on behalf of two union leaders, challenging
1920-466: Is the most Republican county in New Jersey, a state that characteristically votes Democratic. In its history, it has failed to support a Republican for president only three times. As of 2024, all of its state legislators, County commissioners, and countywide constitutional officers are Republicans. The last Democratic presidential candidate to win Ocean County was Bill Clinton in 1996 , who carried
2016-655: The 2009 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 66,723 votes in Burlington County (48.0%), ahead of Democrat Jon Corzine with 63,114 votes (45.4%), Independent Chris Daggett with 6,333 votes (4.6%) and other candidates with 1,661 votes (1.2%), among the 139,030 ballots cast by the county's 282,209 registered voters, yielding a 49.3% turnout rate. In the 2013 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 79,220 votes countywide, ahead of Democrat Barbara Buono with 46,161 votes (35.8%) and other candidates with 1,512 votes (1.2%), among
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#17327728415772112-422: The 2020 census , the county was the state's 11th-most-populous county , with a population of 461,860, its highest decennial count ever and an increase of 13,126 (+2.9%) from the 448,734 recorded at the 2010 census , which in turn had reflected an increase of 25,340 (6.0%) from the 423,394 enumerated at the 2000 census . The most populous place in the county was Evesham Township with 46,826 residents as of
2208-420: The Atlantic Ocean , including the Jersey Shore communities and oceanfront boardwalk resorts of Seaside Heights and Point Pleasant Beach . Six Flags Great Adventure , America's largest Six Flags theme park, was home to the world's tallest and formerly fastest roller coaster, Kingda Ka , which closed in November 2024. The park also contains Six Flags Hurricane Harbor , New Jersey's largest water park , and
2304-536: The Bayville section of Berkeley Township in March 1968. The station relocated to studios in Toms River in 2013. 91.9 WBNJ provides local news, PSAs and events; as well as weather updates. The county had a total of 2,958.5 miles (4,761.2 km) of roadways, of which 2,164.2 miles (3,482.9 km) are maintained by the municipality, 615.5 miles (990.6 km) by Ocean County and 140.19 miles (225.61 km) by
2400-596: The County Clerk and County Surrogate (both elected for five-year terms of office) and the County Sheriff (elected for a three-year term). Burlington County's Constitutional Officers are: The Burlington County Prosecutor is LaChia L. Bradshaw of the Columbus section of Mansfield Township who was nominated by Governor of New Jersey Phil Murphy and sworn into office in July 2022 after confirmation by
2496-424: The County Clerk and County Surrogate (both elected for five-year terms of office) and the County Sheriff (elected for a three-year term). Constitutional officers elected on a countywide basis are: Constitutional officers elected on a countywide basis are: No Democrat has won a countywide office since 1989. The Ocean County Prosecutor is Bradley D. Billhimer, who was nominated by Governor Phil Murphy . Billhimer
2592-578: The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) does not operate any schools on that base. Students on-post in the McGuire and Dix areas ( McGuire Air Force Base and Fort Dix ) may attend one of the following in their grade levels, with all siblings in a family taking the same choice: North Hanover Township (for elementary), Northern Burlington County Regional (for secondary), and Pemberton Township (for K-12). The Burlington County Library became
2688-760: The Garden State Parkway (a 7.4 miles (11.9 km) stretch in Bass River Township ), Interstate 295 and the New Jersey Turnpike (a portion of Interstate 95 ). The turnpike extends through the county for approximately 30.1 miles (48.4 km) from Cherry Hill in Camden County to Hamilton Township in Mercer County (including the 6.5 miles (10.5 km) Turnpike Extension from the turnpike bridge over
2784-463: The Köppen climate classification , Burlington County has a humid subtropical climate ( Cfa ), with relatively cool to cold winters and hot summers. Severe weather is common in the warm months. Hurricanes have struck Burlington County on occasion, but tornadoes are uncommon. Severe thunderstorms, however, are common during the warm season. Snowfall is typical in the winter, with the snowfall averages in
2880-744: The New Jersey Department of Transportation and 38.59 miles (62.10 km) by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority . Ocean County has various major roads that pass through. Those routes are listed below: List of counties in New Jersey There are 21 counties in the U.S. state of New Jersey . These counties together contain 564 municipalities , or administrative entities composed of clearly defined territory; 252 boroughs , 52 cities , 15 towns , 241 townships , and 4 villages . In New Jersey,
2976-851: The New Jersey Senate . Burlington County constitutes Vicinage 3 of the New Jersey Superior Court and is seated at the Burlington County Courts Facility and County Office Building in Mount Holly , with additional space in the Olde Courthouse and Rancocas Building, also in Mount Holly; the Assignment Judge for Vicinage 3 is Ronald E. Bookbinder. In the 2012 general election, Democrats Aimee Belgard and Joanne Schwartz won
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3072-650: The Republicans (as opposed to areas along the Delaware River occupied by minority and working-class households). Burlington County has closely matched statewide totals in recent presidential, senatorial, and gubernatorial elections, making it an important bellwether. As of October 1, 2021, there were a total of 353,613 registered voters in Burlington County, of whom 139,745 (39.5%) were registered as Democrats , 90,754 (25.7%) were registered as Republicans and 118,992 (33.7%) were registered as unaffiliated . There were 4,122 voters (1.2%) registered to other parties. Among
3168-539: The 129,060 ballots cast by the county's 289,900 registered voters, yielding a 44.5% turnout. In the 2017 gubernatorial election , Republican Kim Guadagno received 52,191 (41.8%) of the vote, and Democrat Phil Murphy received 70,453 (56.5%) of the vote. In the 2021 gubernatorial election , Republican Jack Ciattarelli received 46.1% of the vote (71,772 ballots cast) to Democrat Phil Murphy 's 53.3% (82,877 votes). Municipalities have their own municipal courts, which handle traffic and minor criminal and civil matters, and
3264-431: The 193,186 ballots cast by the county's 371,066 registered voters, yielding a 52.1% turnout. In the 2013 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 75.7% of the vote here (125,781 ballots cast), ahead of Democrat Barbara Buono with 22.8% (37,930 votes), In the 2017 gubernatorial election , Republican Kim Guadagno received 98,135 (62.1%) of the vote, and Democrat Phil Murphy received 56,682 (35.8%) of
3360-531: The 1st District. For the 118th United States Congress , New Jersey's 1st congressional district is represented by Donald Norcross ( D , Camden ). For the 118th United States Congress , New Jersey's 3rd congressional district is represented by Andy Kim ( D , Moorestown ). The 40 municipalities of Burlington County are part of four separate legislative districts. Pamela Rosen Lampitt (D) Carol A. Murphy (D) Andrea Katz (D) Robert D. Clifton (R) The Burlington County Sheriff's Department
3456-623: The 2,200-acre (890 ha) Safari Off Road Adventure , the largest drive-thru animal safari outside of Africa. Approximately 40 miles (64 km) of barrier beaches form the Barnegat and Little Egg Harbor Bays, offering ample watersports. It also is home of the Tuckerton Seaport , a 40-acre (160,000 m) maritime history village in Tuckerton . In addition to being the northeast gateway to New Jersey's Pine Barrens , Ocean County
3552-527: The 2020 census. Washington Township covered 102.71 square miles (266.0 km ), the largest area of any municipality in the county. Burlington County is located east of the Delaware River and borders Philadelphia , the nation's sixth-largest city . It is part of the Philadelphia - Camden - Vineland , PA-NJ-DE-MD combined statistical area , also known as the Delaware Valley . However,
3648-400: The 217,428 ballots cast by the county's 291,760 registered voters, for a turnout of 74.5%. In the 2008 presidential election , Democrat Barack Obama received 131,219 votes in the county, ahead of Republican John McCain with 89,626 votes (39.9%) and other candidates with 2,329 votes (1.0%), among the 224,740 ballots cast by the county's 280,836 registered voters, for a turnout of 80.0%. In
3744-467: The 576,567 enumerated at the 2010 census , which in turn reflected an increase of 65,651 (+12.8%) from the 510,916 counted in the 2000 census . Since 2010, Ocean County's population has been growing faster than the United States as a whole. The United States Census Bureau 's Population Estimates Program estimated a 2023 population of 659,197, an increase of 21,968 (+3.4%) from the 2020 decennial census. Ocean County’s most populous and fastest-growing place
3840-790: The New Jersey Superior Court handles more serious cases. The 40 municipalities in Burlington County (with 2010 Census data for population, housing units, and area) are: Rowan College at Burlington County is a two-year public community college serving students from Burlington County. The school, located at campuses in Pemberton and Mount Laurel and was founded in 1966 and opened to students in 1969. School districts in Burlington County include: K-12: The U.S. Census Bureau lists Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in Burlington County as having its own school district. Students attend area school district public schools, as
3936-598: The Republican Party full control on the Freeholder Board. In 2017, Democratic newcomers Tom Pullion and Balvir Singh defeated Republican incumbents Bruce Garganio and Linda Hughes, winning the county election for Democrats for the first time in a non-presidential election year in decades. In 2018, Democrat Joanne Schwartz defeated Republican incumbent Tim Tyler in the County Clerk election. In
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4032-527: The addition of Little Egg Harbor Township which was annexed from Burlington County on March 30, 1891. It derives its name from the Atlantic Ocean that it borders. The most populous municipality in the county is the rapidly growing Lakewood Township , with 135,158 residents in 2020, its highest decennial count ever and an increase of 42,315 (+45.6%) from its 2010 census count of 92,843; while Jackson Township covers 100.62 square miles (260.6 km),
4128-404: The age of 18 living with them, 56.40% were married couples living together, 9.20% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.20% were non-families. 27.00% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.50% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.51 and the average family size was 3.06. In the county, 23.30% of the population
4224-555: The commissioner director was paid an annual salary of $ 11,553; the commissioner salaries are the lowest of the state's 21 counties. As of 2024 , Burlington County's Commissioners are (terms for Director and Deputy Director end every December 31): Pursuant to Article VII Section II of the New Jersey State Constitution , each county in New Jersey is required to have three elected administrative officials known as "constitutional officers." These officers are
4320-418: The constitution was amended to establish 40 districts statewide, each represented by one senator and two assembly members, without relation to county boundaries. The Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) code, used by the United States government to uniquely identify counties, is provided with each entry. FIPS codes are five-digit numbers; for New Jersey the codes start with 34 and are completed with
4416-448: The county is at sea level along the county's lengthy Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay coastlines. Ocean County's area comprises 31.3% water. The coastal county along the Atlantic Ocean has a humid subtropical climate ( Cfa and including the coast). In recent years, average temperatures in the county seat of Toms River have ranged from a low of 24 °F (−4 °C) in January to a high of 85 °F (29 °C) in July, although
4512-586: The county is flat and coastal, with an extensive shoreline and many beaches along the Jersey Shore , including Barnegat Light , Beach Haven , Harvey Cedars , Lavallette , Mantoloking , Seaside Heights , Seaside Park , Ship Bottom , and Surf City . The highest point is one of three unnamed hills (one in Jackson Township , the other two in Plumsted Township ) that reach at least 230 feet (70 m) in elevation. The lowest elevation in
4608-586: The county ranging from about 18 to 22 inches. The nearby Atlantic Ocean moderates Burlington County's climate, and rain is common year-round. The county seat receives about 41 inches of rain per year. Another weather phenomenon that occurs in Burlington County is radiative cooling in the Pine Barrens , a large pine forest and reserve that takes up a good portion of Southern and Eastern Burlington County. Due to sandy soil, on clear and dry nights these areas might be 10 to 15 °F (−12 to −9 °C) colder than
4704-532: The county seat of Mount Holly have ranged from a low of 22 °F (−6 °C) in January to a high of 87 °F (31 °C) in July, although a record low of −25 °F (−32 °C) was recorded in February 1934 and a record high of 104 °F (40 °C) was recorded in July 1936. Average monthly precipitation ranged from 2.92 inches (74 mm) in February to 4.87 inches (124 mm) in August. According to
4800-526: The county stretches across the state, and its southeast corner reaches tidal estuaries leading to New Jersey's Great Bay , which separates the county from the Atlantic Ocean . The county is part of the South Jersey region of the state. Anglo-European records of Burlington County date to 1681, when its court was established in the Province of West Jersey . The county was formed on May 17, 1694, "by
4896-417: The county was $ 23,054. About 4.8% of families and 7.0% of the population were below the poverty line , including 10.0% of those under age 18 and 5.6% of those age 65 or over. As of the 2000 Census, Mantoloking was the wealthiest community in the state of New Jersey with a per capita money income of $ 114,017 as of 1999. The Bureau of Economic Analysis calculated that the county's gross domestic product
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#17327728415774992-438: The county with a 46% plurality of the vote. The last Democrat to win a majority in the county was Lyndon Johnson in 1964. As of October 1, 2021, there were a total of 458,230 registered voters in Ocean County, of whom 171,085 (37.3%) were registered as Republicans , 102,005 (22.3%) were registered as Democrats and 179,085 (39.1%) were registered as unaffiliated . There were 6,055 voters (1.3%) registered to other parties. Among
5088-535: The county's 2010 Census population, 63.2% were registered to vote, including 82.6% of those ages 18 and over. In the 2008 presidential election , Republican John McCain received 58.4% of the vote here (160,677 cast), ahead of Democrat Barack Obama with 40.1% (110,189 votes) among the 276,544 ballots cast by the county's 380,712 registered voters, for a turnout of 72.6%. The Republican vote totals and overall turnout were significantly down in 2012 due to damage and displacement caused by Hurricane Sandy just days before
5184-516: The county's 2010 Census population, 65.2% were registered to vote, included 76.8% of those ages 18 and over. In the 2020 presidential election , however, the county voted a few points more Democratic than the state as a whole. In the 2016 election , the county mostly voted in the line with the state. In the 2012 presidential election , Democrat Barack Obama received 126,377 votes countywide, ahead of Republican Mitt Romney with 87,401 votes (40.2%) and other candidates with 2,158 votes (1.0%), among
5280-444: The county. According to the U.S. Census Bureau , as of the 2020 Census, the county had a total area of 820.19 square miles (2,124.3 km ), of which 799.29 square miles (2,070.2 km ) was land (97.5%) and 20.89 square miles (54.1 km ) was water (2.5%). Most of the county's land is coastal and alluvial plain , with little topographic relief . There are a few anomalous hills, such as Apple Pie Hill and Arney's Mount ,
5376-676: The county. The population density was 803 inhabitants per square mile (310/km). There were 248,711 housing units at an average density of 151/km (390/sq mi). The racial makeup of the county was 93.05% White , 2.99% Black or African American , 0.14% Native American , 1.28% Asian , 0.02% Pacific Islander , 1.24% from other races , and 1.29% from two or more races. 5.02% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race. Among those who listed their ancestry, 25.3% were of Italian , 23.6% Irish , 18.7% German , 8.8% Polish and 8.5% English ancestry according to Census 2000. There were 200,402 households, out of which 28.10% had children under
5472-543: The election as Freeholders (now Commissioners) over Republican incumbents Bruce Garganio and Mary Ann O'Brien, despite being outspent by a six-to-one margin. However, in 2014, both Garganio and O'Brien were successful in winning back seats on the Freeholder board, while Aimee Belgard lost her bid for U.S. Congress, losing the popular vote in both Ocean and Burlington counties. In 2015, Republican newcomers Kate Gibbs and Ryan Peters ousted Belgard and Schwartz, again giving
5568-518: The election. In 2016 and 2020 , it was New Jersey's most Republican county, and in 2020, it was the only one to give Donald Trump more than 60% of the vote; in fact, Trump won all but two municipalities in Ocean County in 2020. In the 2009 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 65.6% of the vote here (124,238 ballots cast), ahead of Democrat Jon Corzine with 28.4% (53,761 votes), Independent Chris Daggett with 4.8% (9,068 votes) and other candidates with 1.2% (1,955 votes), among
5664-544: The entire Air Force Activity / Headquarters of JB MDL McGuire Air Force Base , and all of the main portions of the Army Support Activity, Fort Dix and most training grounds / shooting ranges lie within the county borders in New Hanover , North Hanover , Pemberton , and Springfield townships. While historically a swing county in national and New Jersey politics, in local politics Burlington county
5760-415: The first county library in New Jersey when it was established in 1921 in Mount Holly . Library service grew in popularity and several moves ensued as more space became a necessity. By 1971, a new headquarters facility had been constructed, Cinnaminson Township and Bordentown had joined the system as branches, and a bookmobile visited areas without local facilities. Medford and Evesham Township had joined
5856-421: The freeholder director was paid an annual salary of $ 31,000. This remained unchanged in 2018 As of 2024, Ocean County's Commissioners are (with terms for chair and vice-chair ending every December 31): Pursuant to Article VII Section II of the New Jersey State Constitution , each county in New Jersey is required to have three elected administrative officials known as "constitutional officers." These officers are
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#17327728415775952-476: The freeholder elections, Democrats Felicia Hopson and George Youngkin defeated Republican incumbents Kate Gibbs and Linda Hughes. This gave Democrats a 4-1 majority, gaining control of the Freeholder Board for the first time since 1975. George Youngkin won despite having suspended his campaign due to a past domestic violence charge that was later dropped. He resigned on January 2, the day after being sworn in. Democrats appointed Daniel J. O’Connell to replace him, until
6048-522: The highest of the county and among the highest in South Jersey at approximately 240 feet (73 m) above sea level. The low point is sea level along the Delaware and Mullica rivers. Most of the land is dotted with rivers, streams, and wetlands. Some of the largest and most important rivers in Burlington County include Rancocas Creek , Assiscunk Creek , Pennsauken Creek , Mullica River , Batsto River , and Wading River . Average temperatures in
6144-424: The largest total area of any municipality in Ocean County. According to the U.S. Census Bureau , as of the 2020 Census, the county had a total area of 914.84 square miles (2,369.4 km), making it the largest county in New Jersey in terms of total area (ahead of Burlington County ), of which 628.29 square miles (1,627.3 km) was land (68.7%) and 286.55 square miles (742.2 km) was water (31.3%). Much of
6240-1274: The local municipality, 504.18 miles (811.40 km) by Burlington County, 154.01 miles (247.86 km) by the New Jersey Department of Transportation , 0.93 miles (1.50 km) by the Burlington County Bridge Commission and 36.61 miles (58.92 km) by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority . A variety of major routes were constructed through Burlington County. Major county roads include County Route 528 , County Route 530 , County Route 532 , County Route 534 (only in Shamong Township ), County Route 537 , County Route 541 , County Route 542 , County Route 543 , County Route 544 , County Route 545 and County Route 563 . State Routes that pass through are Route 38 , Route 68 , Route 70 , Route 72 , Route 73 , Route 90 (only in Cinnaminson Township ), and Route 413 (only in Burlington ). U.S. Routes that traverse are U.S. Route 9 (only in Bass River Township ), U.S. Route 130 and U.S. Route 206 . Limited access roads include
6336-577: The maintenance of jails, parks, and certain roads. The site of a county's administration and courts is called the county seat . New Jersey was governed by two groups of proprietors as two distinct provinces, East Jersey and West Jersey , between 1674 and 1702. New Jersey's first counties were created as administrative districts within each province, with East Jersey split in 1675 into Bergen , Essex , Middlesex and Monmouth counties, while West Jersey's initial counties of Burlington and Salem date to 1681. The most recent county created in New Jersey
6432-639: The need for residents to travel to the county seat located about 20 miles (32 km) to the north. The 2nd and 4th Congressional Districts cover the county. For the 118th United States Congress , New Jersey's 2nd congressional district is represented by Jeff Van Drew ( R , Dennis Township ). For the 118th United States Congress , New Jersey's 4th congressional district is represented by Chris Smith ( R , Manchester Township ). The 33 municipalities of Ocean County are covered by four legislative districts. Greg Myhre (R) Paul Kanitra (R) Robert D. Clifton (R) Avi Schnall ( D ) Ocean County
6528-411: The population were under the age of 18, 7.5% from 18 to 24, 22.2% from 25 to 44, 25.9% from 45 to 64, and 21% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42.6 years. For every 100 females, the population had 92 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older there were 88.3 males. As of the 2000 United States census there were 510,916 people, 200,402 households, and 137,876 families residing in
6624-447: The population. There were 170,074 households, of which 31.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.02% were married couples living together, 26.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 14.6% had a male householder with no wife present and 29.4% were non-families. 30.67% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size
6720-418: The population. Of the 221,111 households, 26.7% had children under the age of 18; 53.9% were married couples living together; 9.8% had a female householder with no husband present and 32.5% were non-families. Of all households, 27.8% were made up of individuals and 16.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.58 and the average family size was 3.16. 23.4% of
6816-461: The same month Hurricane Irene hit the New Jersey coast; the lowest was .25 in (0.64 cm) recorded in October 1963. The 2020 United States census counted 637,229 people and 237,729 households in the county. The population density was 1,014.2 inhabitants per square mile (391.6/km). There were 295,648 housing units at an average density of 470.6 per square mile (181.7/km). The racial makeup
6912-483: The sandy soil. As of the 2020 U.S. census , the county had 461,860 people, 170,074 households, and 170,074 families. The population density was 578 inhabitants per square mile (223.2/km ). There were 184,775 housing units at an average density of 231.25 per square mile (89.3/km ). The county's racial makeup was 65.6% White , 16.8% African American , 0.25% Native American , 5.68% Asian , and 8.08% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 8.74% of
7008-422: The seat of government was relocated to Mount Holly in 1793. The period of industrialization saw significant improvements in transportation within Burlington County, which in turn enhanced the profitability of its agricultural sector. Concurrently, a population surge in the coastal communities, fueled by flourishing international trade and ship repair industries, necessitated extensive road improvements throughout
7104-565: The seat, defeated Republican Lee Schneider. The election gave Democrats control over every county-wide office, except the Surrogate, which they won in 2021. Republicans have not won a county-wide race since 2016. However, the majority of Burlington County's state legislators are still Republicans. In April 2022, Allison Eckel was appointed to fill the seat expiring in December 2022 that became vacant after Linda Hynes resigned to take office as
7200-573: The summer. As with the entire Jersey Shore , summer traffic routinely clogs local roadways throughout the season. Over 31% of Ocean County's total area is water. Ocean County is part of the New York metropolitan area. The county is also home to many tourist attractions frequented by Philadelphia metropolitan area residents, including the beachfront communities of Seaside Heights , Long Beach Island , and Point Pleasant Beach , and Six Flags Great Adventure , an amusement park in Jackson Township that
7296-478: The surrounding areas, and there is a shorter frost-free season in these places. The sandy soil of the Pinelands loses heat much faster than the other soils or urban surfaces (concrete, asphalt) in the region, and so achieves a much lower temperature at night than the rest of the county. This effect is far less pronounced on moist, cloudy, or windy nights, as these three factors greatly reduce the radiative cooling of
7392-522: The system by 1975. The Pemberton Township Branch joined the system in 1987. Maple Shade Township became a branch in April 2001 while Riverton , the newest branch, joined in December 2003. With a larger network of nine additional member libraries, the system provides a range of services to its residents. As of May 2010 , the county had a total of 2,609.74 miles (4,199.97 km) of roadways, of which 1,913.83 miles (3,080.01 km) were maintained by
7488-458: The tenth-highest in New Jersey and ranked 228th of 3,113 counties in the United States. The Bureau of Economic Analysis ranked the county as having the 158th-highest per capita income of all 3,113 counties in the United States (and the 11th-highest in New Jersey) as of 2009. Burlington County is governed by a board of county commissioners composed of five members elected at-large by
7584-418: The three-digit county code. The FIPS code for each county in the table links to census data for that county. Burlington County, New Jersey Burlington County is a county in the South Jersey region of the U.S. state of New Jersey . The county is the largest by land area in New Jersey and ranks second behind neighboring Ocean County in total area. Its county seat is Mount Holly . As of
7680-618: The total population. The 2010 United States census counted 576,567 people, 221,111 households, and 149,250 families in the county. The population density was 917 inhabitants per square mile (354/km). There were 278,052 housing units at an average density of 442.2 per square mile (170.7/km). The racial makeup was 90.98% (524,577) White , 3.15% (18,164) Black or African American , 0.17% (966) Native American , 1.75% (10,081) Asian , 0.02% (129) Pacific Islander , 2.46% (14,165) from other races , and 1.47% (8,485) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race were 8.29% (47,783) of
7776-556: The union of the first and second Tenths." The county was named for Bridlington , a town in England. Burlington County, originally the seat of government for the Province of West Jersey , merged with East Jersey in 1702 to form the Province of New Jersey . At its inception, Burlington County was considerably larger but was subsequently partitioned to form additional counties in response to population growth. Specifically, in 1714,
7872-402: The vote. In the 2021 gubernatorial election , Republican Jack Ciattarelli received 67.5% of the vote (145,756 ballots cast) to Democrat Phil Murphy's 31.8% (68,615 votes). Ocean County has been the most Republican in the last three gubernatorial elections. Ocean County College is the two-year community college for Ocean County, one of a network of 19 county colleges statewide. The school
7968-566: The voters in partisan elections that serve staggered three-year terms, with one or two seats up for election each year in a three-year cycle. Burlington County Board of County Commissioners have both administrative and policy-making powers. Each Burlington County Commissioner oversees a particular area of service: Administration & Natural Resources; Education & Justice; Public Works & Veteran Services; Public Safety & Health and Human Services; and Hospital and Medical Services & Elections. In 2016, commissioners were paid $ 10,553 and
8064-535: The world and the largest outside the State of Israel . Stockton University has a campus located in Manahawkin offering undergraduate and graduate colleges of the arts, sciences and professional studies of the New Jersey state system of higher education. School districts in the county include: New Jersey's largest suburban school district, Toms River Regional Schools , is located in Ocean County. Toms River
8160-435: Was $ 105,488. About 5.5% of the population were below the poverty line , including 8.5% of those under age 18 and 4.5% of those age 65 or over. The 2010 U.S. census counted 448,734 people, 166,318 households, and 117,254 families in the county. The population density was 561.9 inhabitants per square mile (217.0/km ). There were 175,615 housing units at an average density of 219.9 per square mile (84.9/km ). The racial makeup
8256-674: Was $ 23.8 billion in 2022, which ranked 12th of 21 in the state. This was a 4.1% increase from the prior year, the 5th largest percent change in the state. The 2022 GDP numbers reflected the second year in a row of positive growth for the county, after 2020 saw a -0.4% change from 2019. Ocean County is home to the Ocean County Mall in Toms River, featuring a gross leasable area of 898,000 square feet (83,400 m). The now-closed Sears site will be replaced with 100,000 square feet (9,300 m) of retail space. Ocean County
8352-407: Was 17.2 °F (−8.2 °C) in February 1934. Average monthly precipitation ranged from 3.30 inches (84 mm) in February to 4.79 inches (122 mm) in March. Areas closer to the coast typically experience more mild winters and cooler summers due to the Atlantic Ocean's influence. The highest total monthly precipitation recorded for the county was 15.67 in (39.8 cm) in August 2011,
8448-420: Was 2.55 and the average family size was 3.08. About 21.1% of the county's population was under age 18, 8.3% was from age 18 to 24, 37.1% was from age 15 to 44, and 17.4% was age 65 or older. The median age was 41.4 years. The gender makeup of the county was 49.23% male and 50.76% female. For every 100 females, there were 97.0 males. The county's median household income was $ 88,797, and the median family income
8544-405: Was 40.4 years. For every 100 females, the population had 96.6 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older there were 94.6 males. The Bureau of Economic Analysis calculated that the county's gross domestic product was $ 27.4 billion in 2021, which was ranked 10th in the state and was a 5.9% increase from the prior year. In 2015, the county had a per capita personal income of $ 55,227,
8640-433: Was 73.84% (331,342) White , 16.60% (74,505) Black or African American , 0.22% (985) Native American , 4.32% (19,395) Asian , 0.05% (219) Pacific Islander , 2.05% (9,193) from other races , and 2.92% (13,095) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.42% (28,831) of the population. Of the 166,318 households, 31.3% had children under the age of 18; 54.3% were married couples living together; 12% had
8736-456: Was 92.2% (587,525) White , 3.9% (24,852) Black or African American , 0.3% (1,912) Native American , 2.1% (13,382) Asian , 0.1% (637) Pacific Islander , and 1.5% (9,558) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race were 10.2% (64,997) of the population. The average household size was 2.62. 24.6% of the population were under the age of 18, 52.6% from 18 to 64, and 22.8% were 65 years of age or older. Females made up 51.3% of
8832-408: Was a bastion of moderate suburban conservatism into the mid-2010's, however since the victory of Donald Trump in the 2016 Presidential election , Burlington County has become reliably Democratic on all levels in recent years, including in more affluent communities that have developed new residential areas, such as Medford , Mount Laurel , Moorestown , and Evesham Township that once leaned more to
8928-487: Was not among the four counties explicitly listed as included in Central Jersey as part of legislation signed into law in 2023. Since 2020, Ocean County has been the fastest-growing county in New Jersey, with a population of 637,229 recorded at the 2020 United States census , its highest decennial count ever and ranking the county as the state's sixth-most populous county , with an increase of 60,662 (+10.5%) from
9024-680: Was sworn in by New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal on October 12, 2018. Ocean County constitutes Vicinage 14 of the New Jersey Superior Court and is seated at the Ocean County Courthouse Complex in Toms River; the Assignment Judge for Vicinage 14 is Marlene Lynch Ford. Ocean County operates the Ocean County Southern Service Center in Manahawkin. This center offers access to all of the Ocean County government services without
9120-633: Was the home to the world's tallest and second-fastest roller coaster , Kingda Ka . Ocean County is a gateway to New Jersey's Pine Barrens , one of the largest protected land areas on the East Coast . Prior to its creation, Ocean County was almost entirely within Shrewsbury township in Monmouth county, With the exception of Tuckerton , and Little Egg Harbor. Ocean County was established on February 15, 1850, from portions of Monmouth County , with
9216-475: Was under the age of 18, 6.60% was from 18 to 24, 26.00% from 25 to 44, 21.90% from 45 to 64, and 22.20% was 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 90.40 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.40 males. The median income for a household in the county was $ 46,443, and the median income for a family was $ 56,420. Males had a median income of $ 44,822 versus $ 30,717 for females. The per capita income for
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