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Union County, NJ (shown in white) has 102.77 mi² of land area and 2.64 mi² of water resources. The county is bordered by:
The county's elevations range from a low of 0' to a high of 498.7', with a weighted average of 126.4' above sea level.
Temperatures range from average lows around 24°F to average highs around 87.8°F. A year-round daily temperature averages 54.9°F. Average annual precipation is 51.2". With these temperatures and precipation, the majority of the county scores as an 7A using the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (the standard by which gardeners and growers can determine which perennial plants are most likely to thrive in a location).
The estimated population of Union County is 580,505 with 202,384 households. These households are spread across 19 unique municipalties (not all shown).
What follows is a brief decription of the major municipality in this county:
One of Elizabeth's most notable features is its history as one of the oldest cities in New Jersey, with a legacy dating back to the colonial era. The city's historic downtown district is home to beautifully preserved buildings, including the historic First Presbyterian Church, which dates back to 1664 and is the oldest continuously active Presbyterian congregation in the United States. The Elizabeth Public Library, housed in a grand Beaux-Arts building, offers resources, programs, and events celebrating the city's history and heritage.
Elizabeth's strategic location along the Arthur Kill Waterway made it a major center of commerce and industry for centuries. The city's Port of Elizabeth is one of the largest ports on the East Coast, handling millions of tons of cargo annually and serving as a gateway for international trade and shipping. The port area is also home to the Elizabeth Marine Terminal, which offers ferry service to Staten Island and serves as a recreational boating, fishing, and waterfront dining hub.
Elizabeth's cultural diversity is reflected in its vibrant neighborhoods, ethnic enclaves, and culinary scene. The city is home to large communities of immigrants from around the world, including Portuguese, Hispanic, and South Asian populations, contributing to a rich tapestry of languages, traditions, and cuisines. The city's annual Portuguese Day Parade and Hispanic Heritage Celebration showcase the community's diversity and heritage with colorful parades, music, dance, and traditional cuisine.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Elizabeth and the surrounding area, with numerous parks, trails, and recreational facilities offering outdoor and relaxation opportunities. Warinanco Park, the largest park in Union County, features playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and walking paths, as well as a lake for fishing and boating. The nearby Elizabeth River Parkway offers scenic views of the waterfront and opportunities for hiking, biking, and birdwatching along the banks of the Arthur Kill.
Education is a top priority in Elizabeth, with the Elizabeth Public Schools serving students from kindergarten through high school with a focus on academic excellence and student success. The district operates several elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as specialized programs and magnet schools to meet the diverse needs of its student population. Additionally, Elizabeth is home to Union County College, a leading community college offering academic and vocational programs.
Elizabeth offers residents a dynamic and diverse community with a rich history and thriving port. Whether exploring its historic landmarks, enjoying its cultural events and festivals, or experiencing its outdoor recreation opportunities, Elizabeth invites residents and visitors to discover the best of New Jersey in a welcoming and vibrant city just minutes from New York City.
