New Brunswick, Nj: Size And Scope

New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a city in and the seat of government of Middlesex County. It is a regional commercial hub for central New Jersey, serving as both a college town and a commuter town for residents travelling to New York City. As of the 2020 census, the city's population was 55,266, with a calculated population of 55,846 for 2023. New Brunswick is known for its ethnic diversity, with notable communities including Hungarian, Asian, and Hispanic populations. The city has a total area of 5.75 square miles, including 5.23 square miles of land and 0.52 square miles of water.

New Brunswick's population

New Brunswick, New Jersey, has a population of 55,707 as of 2024, a slight increase from the 2020 census count of 55,289. The city's population has been steadily increasing, with a growth rate of 0.63% annually. New Brunswick is known for its ethnic diversity, with a significant Hispanic population, accounting for 46.9% of the total population. The city also has notable Black or African American (14.76%) and Asian (10%) populations.

The median age in New Brunswick is 24 years, with a slight difference between males (23.9 years) and females (24.2 years). The population is predominantly young, with a large number of individuals in their 20s and 30s. The city has a high percentage of foreign-born residents, with 19.29% of residents born outside the United States, many of whom are from Latin America.

The average household income in New Brunswick is $81,409, with a median household income of $57,138. However, the city has a relatively high poverty rate of 31.88%, with 25.4% of families living below the poverty line. The high poverty rate is reflected in the low homeownership rate of 19.8%, with a significant portion of the population renting their residences.

New Brunswick's size compared to other cities

New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a small city of 5.23 square miles, with a population of around 55,000. It is part of the New York metropolitan area and is located 27 miles southwest of Manhattan.

New Brunswick is smaller than Edison, which is 9.71% larger and has a population of 97,687. It is also smaller than Newark, which is 21 miles northeast of New Brunswick and has a population of 282,011.

However, New Brunswick is larger than East Brunswick, which is 5.1 square miles and has a population of 47,076. It is also larger than Somerset, which is 1.4 square miles and has a population of 22,083.

New Brunswick's history

The history of New Brunswick, New Jersey, dates back to the mid-17th century when the area was inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans. The first European settlement at the site occurred in 1681 when the area was known as Prigmore's Swamp, named after local resident John Prigmore (or Pridmore). The first European inhabitant of the area was a man named Daniel Cooper, who operated a ferry that was later purchased by John Inian. In 1681, Inian purchased two lots from the Leni-Lenape Native Americans, containing one mile of riverfront and two miles inland, or 1280 acres. This was the first purchase of land in what is now the City of New Brunswick.

In the 1700s, the settlement became known as Inian's Ferry, and in 1714, it was renamed New Brunswick in honour of King George I of England, who was also the Duke of Brunswick. The town was incorporated in 1730 and became an important crossroads between Philadelphia/Trenton and New York City. During the Revolutionary War, New Brunswick was occupied by British troops in the winter of 1776-1777. The city was also a base for privateers who preyed upon British ships around Manhattan.

In the 19th century, New Brunswick continued to grow and develop. Queen's College (now Rutgers University) was founded in 1766 and classes began in 1771. The New Brunswick Theological Seminary, the oldest theological school in the United States, moved to the city in 1810. In 1838, the Camden and Amboy Railroad reached New Brunswick, further establishing the city as a regional hub.

In the late 19th century, James W. and Robert W. Johnson established Johnson & Johnson, a company that produced adhesive tape and surgical dressings. This marked the beginning of New Brunswick's emergence as a major producer of hospital supplies and pharmaceuticals. Today, the city is known as both the \"Hub City\" and the \"Healthcare City\" due to the concentration of medical facilities and pharmaceutical companies in the area.

New Brunswick's public transport

New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a well-connected city with a range of public transportation options. The city is served by two train stations: New Brunswick Station, located in the heart of downtown New Brunswick, and Jersey Avenue Station in the southern portion of the city. Over 90 NJ Transit trains stop at these stations daily, providing frequent services north to Pennsylvania Station in Midtown Manhattan and south to Trenton. Amtrak's Regional and Keystone Service trains also service New Brunswick Station, connecting the city with the Northeast Corridor Line.

New Brunswick also has an extensive bus network. NJ Transit operates five bus routes through the city: 810, 811, 814, 815, and 818. Additionally, Rutgers University operates the second-largest bus system in New Jersey and the largest campus bus system in the country, connecting all campuses and downtown New Brunswick for free. The city is also served by the Middlesex County Area Transit (MCAT) shuttles, which provide service across the county, including the M1 route between New Brunswick and Jamesburg.

For those travelling further afield, CoachUSA/Suburban Transit operates three commuter bus routes into New York City and other points in between. These are Lines 100, 500, and 600.

Finally, for elderly, disabled, and low-income residents, the city offers a free curb-to-curb transportation service called Dial-A-Ride, which provides transportation to non-emergency medical appointments and social service agencies.

New Brunswick's tourist attractions

New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that the city has to offer:

Rutgers University

Rutgers University, the state university of New Jersey, is a prominent feature of New Brunswick. The city is home to the historic New Brunswick Campus, one of the four campuses of the university. The New Brunswick Campus includes the Busch Campus, which houses the Medical School and the High Point Solutions Stadium. The university's sports teams, the Scarlet Knights, have gained recognition in college sports. Rutgers University also boasts a dynamic performing arts centre, which includes member companies such as the American Repertory Ballet, Crossroads Theatre Company, and the George Street Playhouse.

Zimmerli Art Museum

The Zimmerli Art Museum, located within Rutgers University, showcases a diverse range of art collections. It is particularly renowned for its Russian and Soviet-era subversive art, as well as its collection of French art. The museum offers free admission and is a great place to explore and appreciate art.

Kirkpatrick Chapel

The Kirkpatrick Chapel, constructed in 1873 in the High Victorian Gothic Revival Style, is another architectural gem within the Rutgers University campus. It is known for its scarlet interior and exceptional acoustics, making it a unique performance space for events like the annual Christmas in Carol and Song.

George Street Playhouse

The George Street Playhouse is a renowned performing arts venue in New Brunswick. It is part of the New Brunswick Performing Arts Centre, which hosts a variety of productions, including plays and ballets. The Arthur Laurents Theatre within the centre is known for its comfortable seating and ample legroom, providing an enjoyable theatre-going experience.

Monument Square Park

Monument Square Park is a popular outdoor attraction in New Brunswick. It features a monument and a fountain located in front of the Heldrich hotel in the theatre district. The park offers a relaxing atmosphere and is a great spot for leisure activities.

First Reformed Church

The First Reformed Church, located just a block away from Monument Square Park, is a historic site dating back to 1742. The church has a small congregation that actively works to reshape the space, including renovations and the establishment of Dina's Dwelling, a domestic abuse shelter for women.

United Methodist Church

The United Methodist Church is a vibrant and multicultural place of worship in New Brunswick. The congregation represents diverse nationalities, as evidenced by the flags displayed in the sanctuary. The church offers a range of activities, including Sunday school, worship services, fellowship with refreshments, communion, and special programs like "Second Sunday" and choir performances.

Basilone Memorial Bridge

The Basilone Memorial Bridge is a historic site in New Brunswick, New Jersey. It is one of the many historical bridges that can be found in the state.

Boyd Park

Boyd Park is an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. It features a relaxing water pond with ducks, playgrounds for children, an open-air amphitheatre, walking paths, and picnic areas. The park provides ample parking and is a great place to spend a sunny day.

Harvest Moon Brewery & Cafe

For those who enjoy craft beer and dining, the Harvest Moon Brewery & Cafe is a popular destination. Located on George Street, it offers a unique combination of brewery and cafe experiences.

Museum of the American Hungarian

The Museum of the American Hungarian, situated on Somerset Street, provides a glimpse into the cultural and historical aspects of the American Hungarian community. It is a specialised museum that showcases the contributions and stories of this ethnic group.

Rutgers University Geology Museum

The Rutgers University Geology Museum, located on Somerset Street, is a fascinating attraction for those interested in geology and natural history. It showcases a variety of geological specimens and exhibits.

New Brunswick, New Jersey, offers a diverse range of attractions, from historical sites and performing arts centres to museums and outdoor spaces. These destinations provide cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities for visitors and locals alike.

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