UNION COUNTY

County Offices
10 Elizabethtown Plaza
Elizabeth 908-527-4000
https://ucnj.org/

Chamber of Commerce
135 Jefferson Avenue
Elizabeth 908-352-0900
https://gatewaychamber.com/

Dubbed “The biggest little county in the East,” Union County nevertheless provides a comfortable home to more than half a million people. The region’s diverse municipalities are conveniently located approximately 15 miles from Times Square and 70 miles from Philadelphia, enabling them to serve a bustling hub for one of the East Coast’s most pivotal states. Situated on tidal marshes, a portion of the Piedmont Plain, and the Watchung Mountains, Union County boasts considerably natural beauty.

Union County’s favorable standing for per-capita income and total personal income is a clear indication of its market potential. The workforce is outstanding and plays a significant role in Union County’s ascent to a leading position in research and development in recent decades. As long ago as 1948, three Union County scientists developed the first transistor at the AT&T laboratory in Berkeley Heights. Since that time, corporate giants like General Motors, Bell Laboratories, and major pharmaceutical companies attest to the economic power wielded by Union County. Remaining a hot spot for redevelopment and economic growth, the county offers an ideal location and many competitive advantages.

Services
The county’s premier location has elevated it to the status of a transportation hub in the Northeast commercial corridor. The county is home to the state-of-the-art facilities of Newark International Airport, the largest foreign trade zone, and the nation’s largest container terminal. The vast miles of paved roads include the state’s most traveled thoroughfares, the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike. New Jersey Transit commuter bus lines and PATH trains offer commuting convenience.

Residents of Union County enjoy premier healthcare services in both public and private facilities. In addition to a collection of state-of-the-art acute care and teaching hospitals, specialized services are available to meet every need from routine to the most advanced. A county hospital devoted to geriatric needs, a children’s hospital for orthopedic patients, and nursing care centers are just a few of the facilities within this vast network. Children’s Specialized Hospital operates in a number of convenient locations. Other major resources include Muhlenberg Regional Medical Center, Overlook Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Union Hospital, and Trinitas Hospital — the consolidation of St. Elizabeth Hospital and Elizabeth General Medical Center.

Union Hospital
Commitment to quality is highly evident in Union County public school districts and the impressive selection of parochial and independent private schools. A dedicated and well-educated staff combines with small classes that target the needs of a each student. Community groups are able to share resources with local schools, each of which is equipped with a computer lab. Not only is first-rate vocational training available in Scotch Plains, but high-school graduates are routinely accepted at prestigious institutions in New Jersey and across the nation. Locally, students of all ages can attend Union County College in four different locations or the private Kean College of New Jersey. Within 15 miles from home, students can attend some of the nation’s most prestigious colleges and universities.

Lifestyle
Commuters still make up the largest segment of the Union County population, a trend accelerated by skyrocketing home prices in the Hudson Valley suburbs. Those who work in Manhattan have been especially drawn to Union County’s comparatively affordable housing and proximity to the “Big Apple.” Although multi-family living choices are growing, single-family homes still predominate, from the charming Cape Cod cottages in Scotch Plains to ranch-type homes in Berkeley Heights.

Architectural treasures from the past are abundant in this region that preserves hundreds of pre-Revolutionary structures. Pre-Civil War Federal-period dwellings combine with post-war Victorian mansions, Tudors, and turn-of-the-century Georgian-style residences. New construction focuses on contemporary, one or two-family houses, garden and luxury apartments, and condominiums or townhouses. Many of the mansions in Plainfield’s three residential historic districts were converted into apartments without altering the stately exteriors.

Remnants of Union County’s 300-year-old history can be found in a wide variety of charming historic districts, sites, museums, restored churches and taverns, and countless homes. And while Broadway and “The Met” are just 45 minutes away from the county’s communities, New Yorkers often travel to Union County to enjoy audience-pleasing productions. The region offers exceptional cultural attractions and is home to a remarkable number of talented groups and companies. Fascinating museums, visual art centers, fine galleries, and the Union County Arts Center in Rahway are regional highlights.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find more than two dozen parks encompassing thousands of lush acres. Most municipalities have their own county parks — many within walking distance of residential areas. Among the myriad of amenities are golf courses, swimming pools, an ice-skating center, shooting ranges, stables and bridle trails, lakes with paddleboats and rowboats, scenic nature trails, athletic fields, tennis courts, bicycle and hiking paths, playgrounds, fishing areas, and picnic pavilions. Scenic rivers and brooks meander through many of the communities.

Life is always filled with quality activities and delightful surprises for Union County residents. Aficionados of shopping will enjoy bargain hunting in its quaint shops, retails stores, in-town shopping centers, and mini-malls. Fine restaurants, eateries, and ethnic cuisine are waiting around every turn. Around the four seasons, county residents plan and enjoy any number of fairs, festivals, ethnic celebrations, concerts, parades, and a host of civic activities. With its vast recreational amenities, excellent schools, efficient services, premier location, and transportation efficiencies, Union County is an ideal place to call home.


Berkeley Heights
Municipal Offices
908-464-2700
https://www.berkeleyheights.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
908-522-1700
https://www.suburbanchambers.org/

Nestled near the Watchung Mountains in close proximity to Interstate 78, Berkeley Heights Township is a settled area with a pleasing mix of comfortable older and newer homes. An acclaimed school system, an atmosphere of natural beauty, and commuter convenience makes the township a highly desirable address. The arts are highly valued within the community and lovely parks abound. The influence of Bell Laboratories has drawn a significant number of executives and professionals, and commuters to New York City can take advantage of passenger rail. Recreational amenities include the YMCA, Watchung Reservation, an outdoor lighted ice-skating rink, playgrounds, athletic fields, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and private clubs.

Clark, Winfield
Clark Offices
732-388-3600
https://www.ourclark.com
Winfield Offices
908-925-3850
https://www.winfield-nj.org/

Chamber of Commerce
908-352-0900
https://gatewaychamber.com/

Clark Township provides a tranquil, small-town spirit and easy access of urban amenities and expanded facilities. Quiet neighborhoods along tree-lined streets reflect a pleasing mix of older homes and new construction. Local retail establishments are expanded by nearby major malls. Careful zoning has protected residential neighborhoods from the limited industrial activity. Nearby county parks combine with playgrounds, athletic fields, league sports, golf courses, swimming pools, a senior center, a youth center, supervised recreation programs for quality leisure activity. Distinctive in its environment, Winfield Township is strictly residential and features primarily multi-family developments. The township features a housing association that maintains a waiting list of those interested in vacancies. Reasonably priced, attractive housing predominates, although availability is limited.

Cranford, Garwood
Cranford Offices
908-709-7210
https://www.cranford.com/
Garwood Offices
908-789-0710
https://garwood.org/

Chamber of Commerce
908-272-6114
https://www.cranford.com/chamber/

Primarily residential in character, Cranford Township boasts a renovated downtown district that sets the pace for the pleasing suburban atmosphere. This charming district draws residents and visitors to brick-paved sidewalks, flower beds, attractive store fronts, and Victorian elegance. Specialty stores, lovely plazas, charming cafes, and quaint neighborhoods add to the quality of life. Along with neighboring Garwood Borough, the township provides a tranquil, small-town lifestyle in easy access to urban amenities. More than 275 acres of county parkland are close to home, combining with local parks, nature centers, hiking/biking trails, bridle trails, and athletic fields for abundant recreational opportunities.

Elizabeth City
Municipal Offices
908-820-4000
https://www.elizabethnj.org/

Chamber of Commerce
908-355-7600
https://www.elizabethchamber.com

The economic leader of the “big six” New Jersey cities, Elizabeth is a regional center of labor, county government, manufacturing, and transportation. The city is also home to Newark International Airport. The impressive Elizabeth Marina and Recreation Pier is now homeport to a fleet of privately owned pleasure and fishing boats. Lovely older homes graced by large shade trees and diverse historic sites contribute to the community’s special character. Elizabeth also boasts one of the finest urban educational systems in the state. Recreational opportunities are abundant in nearby state, county, and local parks. The city offers a kaleidoscope of recreation centers and sports facilities.

Fanwood, Scotch Plains
Fanwood Offices
908-322-8236
https://www.fanwoodnj.org/
Scotch Plains Offices
908-322-6700
www.scotchplainsnj.gov

Chamber of Commerce
908-352-0900
https://gatewaychamber.com/

Covering less than two square miles, Fanwood Borough combines limited business and industry with a pleasing mix of housing that includes some beautifully restored historic homes. Adjacent Scotch Plains is primarily residential, offering a tranquil, small-town lifestyle. The township has a long-established southern quadrant of well-kept older homes and a more contemporary northern section. Several major malls are within close proximity. Recreational amenities include parks, playgrounds, athletic fields, tennis courts, a five-acre nature center, and Fanwood’s outdoor lighted ice-skating rink. Scotch Plains adds an active YMCA and private golf and swim clubs.

Hillside
Municipal Offices
973-926-3002
http://www.hillsidenj.us/motocms

Chamber of Commerce
908-352-0900
https://gatewaychamber.com/

Balancing residential areas, industrial activity, and commercial development, Hillside Township is a self-contained and compact municipality. This well-established and stable community boasts good schools and a strong sense of civic pride. Single-family homes predominate, although multi-family developments are available. Scattered retail establishments meet the needs of residents, with expanded shopping facilities in Livingston or Woodbridge Center. Residents take advantage of the facilities and programs at the recreation center, county parks, athletic fields, tennis courts, and a public swimming pool.

Kenilworth
Municipal Offices
908-276-9090
https://www.kenilworthborough.com

Chamber of Commerce
908-272-6114
https://www.cranford.com/chamber/

Home to a significant amount of industrial activity, Kenilworth Borough also provides pleasant residential areas. Newcomers will find a mix of well-kept older homes and newer housing in this stable, close knit community. Among the variety of architectural styles and periods represented here are some elegant Victorian and charming colonial homes that occasionally appear on the market. Local shops serve the needs of area residents for goods and services, with the vast amenities of Woodbridge Center nearby. Recreational programs in the borough are diverse, from sports and gymnastics to art lessons. County parks and local sports facilities are also available for outdoor enjoyment.

Linden City
Municipal Offices
908-474-8452
https://linden-nj.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
908-352-0900
https://gatewaychamber.com/

Stretching over 12 square miles, the industrial center of Linden City has one-quarter of its boundary on Staten Island Sound and nearly as much on the Rahway River. Commercial growth is on the rise and revitalization is occurring in several areas. Hundreds of retail outlets are scattered throughout the city. Housing options here are diverse, from single-family dwellings to duplexes, apartments, condominiums, and senior residential villages. Linden Airport provides a vital communication link in the Union County infrastructure, and residents enjoy easy access to an entire network of major highways. Recreational amenities include neighborhood and regional parks, playgrounds, athletic fields, tennis courts, swimming pools, and summer camps.

Mountainside
Municipal Offices
908-232-2400
https://www.mountainside-nj.com

Chamber of Commerce
908-352-0900
https://gatewaychamber.com/

Mountainside Borough is an attractive, residential community featuring an abundance of trees and a hilly terrain that clarifies the meaning of its name. Single-family homes dominate the housing selection, most of which are beautiful, well-kept older homes on expansive lots. The downtown retail center is complemented by several major malls within a 10-minute drive, and residents enjoy good highway access to amenities in surrounding urban centers. Recreational attractions in the borough and nearby include a fitness trail, Echo Park, Watchung Reservation, Surprise Lake, athletic fields, tennis courts, swimming pools, private clubs, senior programs, and supervised recreational programs.

New Providence
Municipal Offices
908-665-1400
https://www.newprov.org/

Chamber of Commerce
908-522-1700
https://www.suburbanchambers.org/

New Providence Borough is an established residential community graced by gentle the hills and winding roads of the Watchung Mountains. Residents can relax in the evenings by strolling along miles of scenic paths. The borough’s serene neighborhoods consist primarily of older, well-kept homes along tree-shaded streets. Some newer construction including multi-family developments ensure a wide variety of housing choices. The Village Shopping Center provides retail amenities. Leisure hours are spent enjoying local parks, playgrounds, athletic fields, tennis courts, swimming pools, private clubs, and outdoor ice-skating rinks.

Plainfield City
Municipal Offices
908-753-3310
https://www.plainfieldnj.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
908-352-0900
https://gatewaychamber.com/

Primarily a residential, suburban community with limited industrial activity, Plainfield City features a number of historic districts and beautifully restored homes. North Avenue is the commercial historic district, although retail establishments are scattered throughout the city. Quality public and private schools combine with a campus for Union Community College for outstanding educational opportunities. New construction is available in both single-family and multi-family residential developments, although Plainfield is known for the quality of its fine older homes. Residents enjoy active YMCAs, community centers, county parks, and a wide variety of sports and recreational facilities.

Rahway City
Municipal Offices
732-827-2000
https://www.cityofrahway.org/

Chamber of Commerce
732-675-5140
https://www.rahwaychamberofcommerce.com/

Long-established and well-developed, Rahway City features a pleasing balance of commerce, industry, and welcoming neighborhoods. Strong civic pride has resulted in sweeping revitalization, particularly in the downtown retail district. One of the community’s jewels is the Union County Arts Center in the restored Rahway Theatre, the cornerstone of the Arts District and a cornerstone of cultural renaissance. Older homes blend with newer construction, while acres of lake and river parkland create a backdrop of scenic beauty. Local parks include the expansive Rahway River Park. Other recreational amenities close to home include playgrounds, a sports complex, league sports play, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and an active YMCA.

Roselle, Roselle Park
Roselle Offices
908-245-5600
https://www.boroughofroselle.com
Roselle Park Offices
908-245-6222
www.rosellepark.net

Chamber of Commerce
908-671-1452
https://www.rosellechamber.com/

Covering less than three square miles, Roselle Borough offers an established community with limited commercial and industrial activity and neighborhoods of primarily single-family homes. Neighboring Roselle Park Borough offers another long-established and stable community with a hometown feeling. Convenient to Manhattan, it attracts a significant number of commuters who appreciate the quality education, convenient shopping, quiet neighborhoods, and more affordable housing. Nearby recreational amenities include Sandy Hook beaches, county parks, and golf clubs. Roselle Park has invested more than $1.5 million in athletic and park facilities. Roselle Park offers Warniance Park, a private swimming pool, and a golf course.


Springfield Township
Municipal Offices
973-912-2200
https://springfield-nj.us

Chamber of Commerce
908-352-0900
https://gatewaychamber.com/

Steeped in historic significance, Springfield Township is a heavily populated yet tranquil residential community. New Jersey’s smallest state park is located in the township, surrounded by the Presbyterian Church that commemorates the ties to the Revolutionary War era. Springfield is popular choice for commuters who appreciate the quality of its schools, proximity to major thoroughfares, and the variety of housing choices. In addition to town center, shopping is available at nearby larger malls. Residents enjoy an active YMCA, lush parks, an outdoor ice-skating rink, playgrounds, athletic fields, tennis courts, golf courses, and private swimming pools.

Summit City
Municipal Offices
908-273-6400
https://www.cityofsummit.org/

Chamber of Commerce
908-522-1700
https://www.suburbanchambers.org/
Serving as a magnet for potential homeowners, Summit City is known for progressive services and well-kept neighborhoods that show pride of ownership. An older but prestigious community, Summit prides itself on its active town center and the quality and abundance of cultural, social, and recreational opportunities. In 2000 the city’s downtown business district underwent a sweeping beautification and update program. Newcomers to the community will discover many beautiful, spacious homes on generous lots that are further enhanced by the city’s location on the ridge of the panoramic Watchung Mountains. The Summit Town Center as well as the famous Short Hills shopping centers are easily accessible to area residents.

Union Township
Municipal Offices
908-688-2800
https://www.suburbanchambers.org/

Chamber of Commerce
908-352-0900
https://gatewaychamber.com/

A residential community boasting the county’s most abundant array of single-family homes, Union Township harmonizes lovely older homes along quiet tree-lined streets with contemporary suburban developments. Densely populated with a well-established community spirit, the township is home to some commerce and industry as well as Kean College of New Jersey. Retail establishments meet the needs of area residents, supplemented by nearby major malls. The attractive “college town” atmosphere is enhanced by abundant recreational amenities including a 40-acre conservation area, sports facilities, a golf course, tennis courts, swim clubs, and programs for all age groups.

Westfield
Municipal Offices
908-789-4040
https://www.westfieldnj.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
908-233-3021
https://www.gwaccnj.com/

Primarily residential in nature, Westfield Town enjoys a level of cultural activity that is rare in a smaller town. In addition to local symphony and theatre, the central business district features emporiums devoted to books, music, and art. The community offers an attractive cityscape, excellent schools, and a vibrant downtown district. A prosperous area graced by substantial housing and scenic parks, Westfield attracts newcomers to an atmosphere of civic pride and community involvement. Recreational amenities include regional and local parks, sports facilities, a golf course, tennis courts, and private clubs.

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