County of ocean
new jersey
History & Founding
Located on the central coast of New Jersey, this county was established in 1852 from portions of Monmouth and Burlington counties. Its name derives directly from its defining feature: the Atlantic Ocean. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans. Early settlers primarily engaged in agriculture and fishing, gradually developing a thriving maritime industry. During the Revolutionary War, the coastal areas witnessed naval skirmishes, and the county played a role in supplying troops. An interesting anecdote from the late 1800s tells of a massive oyster bed, so abundant it was said to have temporarily altered the coastline, providing a natural breakwater before disappearing due to environmental changes. The county’s development mirrored New Jersey’s overall trajectory, evolving from an agricultural hub to a more diverse economy influenced by its proximity to major urban centers.
Geography & Landscape
Geographically, the county occupies a significant portion of the New Jersey Pine Barrens coastal plain. Its terrain is generally flat, sloping gently towards the Atlantic Ocean. The Barnegat Bay and the Little Egg Harbor are prominent bodies of water, providing vital ecosystems and recreational opportunities. Numerous smaller lakes and streams dot the landscape. The climate is humid subtropical, characterized by warm, humid summers and mild winters. The county boasts extensive shoreline, including popular beaches like Point Pleasant and Island Beach State Park. While no significant mountain ranges exist within the county, the gently rolling hills of the Pine Barrens provide a subtle variation in elevation. The sandy soil, a legacy of glacial activity, contributes to the area's unique character.
Economy & Communities
The county is comprised of 41 municipalities, ranging from larger towns like Toms River, the county seat, to smaller, more rural communities. Its economy is a blend of tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing. Tourism flourishes along the coastline, drawing visitors to its beaches, boardwalks, and amusement parks. Healthcare is a major employer, with numerous hospitals and medical facilities serving the region. Agriculture, while diminished from its historical prominence, remains significant, with cranberries, blueberries, and peaches being key crops. Industry includes sectors like pharmaceuticals, food processing, and plastics manufacturing. The character of the area is predominantly suburban, with pockets of rural charm within the Pine Barrens and more urban environments around the coastal towns. Notable employers include Ocean Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian Health, and various retail chains.
Points of Interest
Numerous points of interest draw visitors and residents alike. Island Beach State Park offers pristine beaches and diverse wildlife. The Tuckerton Seaport, a living history museum, showcases the area's maritime heritage. Six Flags Great Adventure, a renowned amusement park, is a major regional attraction. The annual Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk Festival celebrates the community's vibrant coastal culture. The county is also home to several historic sites, including the Allaire Village Historic District, a preserved 19th-century industrial village. Notably, the county holds the record for having the highest concentration of cranberry bogs in New Jersey. Numerous artists and athletes have called the county home, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.
Information
- State
- new jersey
- Type
- County
- Population
- 510,916
- Land area
- 636 sq mi
- Capital
- Toms River
- Time zone
- UTC-5
- FIPS
- 34029
41 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Toms River | 86,327 | 40 ft (12 m) |
| Lakewood | 36,065 | 91 ft (28 m) |
| Point Pleasant | 19,306 | 16 ft (5 m) |
| Ocean Acres | 13,155 | 120 ft (37 m) |
| Beachwood | 10,375 | 40 ft (12 m) |
| Crestwood Village | 8,392 | 133 ft (41 m) |
| Point Pleasant Beach | 5,314 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Forked River | 4,914 | 13 ft (4 m) |
| Leisure Village East | 4,597 | 40 ft (12 m) |
| Beach Haven West | 4,444 | 5 ft (2 m) |
| Leisure Village | 4,443 | 60 ft (18 m) |
| South Toms River | 3,634 | 31 ft (9 m) |
| Tuckerton | 3,517 | 23 ft (7 m) |
| Seaside Heights | 3,155 | 7 ft (2 m) |
| Lavallette | 2,665 | 5 ft (2 m) |
| Lakehurst | 2,522 | 72 ft (22 m) |
| New Egypt | 2,519 | 78 ft (24 m) |
| Leisure Knoll | 2,467 | 70 ft (21 m) |
| North Beach Haven | 2,427 | 4 ft (1 m) |
| Holiday Heights | 2,389 | 50 ft (15 m) |
| Seaside Park | 2,263 | 6 ft (2 m) |
| Ocean Gate | 2,076 | 7 ft (2 m) |
| Pine Ridge at Crestwood | 2,025 | 90 ft (27 m) |
| Manahawkin | 2,004 | 32 ft (10 m) |
| Pine Beach | 1,950 | 20 ft (6 m) |
| Dover Beaches North | 1,785 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Island Heights | 1,751 | 30 ft (9 m) |
| Barnegat | 1,690 | 43 ft (13 m) |
| Cedar Glen Lakes | 1,617 | 150 ft (46 m) |
| Dover Beaches South | 1,594 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Waretown | 1,582 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Surf City | 1,442 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Ship Bottom | 1,384 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Cedar Glen West | 1,376 | 90 ft (27 m) |
| Beach Haven | 1,278 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Bay Head | 1,238 | 9 ft (3 m) |
| Silver Ridge | 1,211 | 40 ft (12 m) |
| Barnegat Light | 764 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Vista Center | 541 | 130 ft (40 m) |
| Mantoloking | 423 | 7 ft (2 m) |
| Harvey Cedars | 359 | 9 ft (3 m) |