Union Public RecordsNew Jersey

Union County, NJ, has a 2023 population of approximately 569,000. The age distribution is about 22% under 18, 62% aged 18-64, and 16% 65 and older. Gender is nearly balanced, with 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the county is 39% White (non-Hispanic), 21% Black or African American, 7% Asian, and 29% Hispanic or Latino of any race, with 4% identifying as other or multiracial. (Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022-2023 estimates.)

Union County, NJ, has over 350,000 registered voters, with Democrats comprising about 50%, Republicans 18%, and unaffiliated/other voters 32%. The County Board of Elections administers local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and special elections. In the 2020 presidential election, turnout reached 76%, with 68% voting Democratic and 31% Republican. There are 180+ polling locations countywide. Recent issues include mail-in ballot security and polling access. The administration ensures compliance with state laws and accessibility for all voters, while the main parties are Democratic and Republican, reflecting the county’s strong Democratic lean.

Union County, NJ, features a diverse housing market with a median home value around $470,000 in 2024. Approximately 56% of residents own homes, while 44% rent, with median monthly rents near $1,900. Housing ranges from historic single-family homes in Westfield and Summit to high-rise apartments in Elizabeth. Neighborhoods like Cranford and Scotch Plains offer suburban charm, while Union and Plainfield have more urban density. Property taxes average $10,000–$12,000 annually, reflecting the county’s above-average rates. Recent years show steady price growth, with values rising about 5% annually, driven by proximity to New York City and strong local amenities.

As of 2023, Union County, NJ, has an employment rate of approximately 61%. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (16%), retail trade (11%), and educational services (10%). The most common occupations are office and administrative support (13%), sales (10%), and management (9%). About 75% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 32 minutes; 11% use public transit. Over 35% of employed residents work outside the county, primarily commuting to New York City and nearby New Jersey counties.

Union County, NJ, hosts 21 public high schools and multiple private institutions, with a high school graduation rate of about 90%. Approximately 38% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School ratings average 6-8/10 (GreatSchools). Adult education is supported through Union County College. School districts prioritize safety with security measures and anti-bullying programs. Various educational programs, including AP and honors courses, STEM initiatives, and special education, are available, fostering diverse learning opportunities and career readiness.

Union County, NJ, experiences a moderate crime rate compared to the national average. In 2023, the violent crime rate was approximately 2.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, below the US average of 4.0. Property crime stood at 11.6 per 1,000, with larceny-theft most common. Law enforcement emphasizes timely crime reporting via the Union County Crime Stoppers tip line. While some towns like Elizabeth report higher crime rates, safer areas such as Westfield and Summit maintain low incidents. Overall, Union County is considered relatively safe with ongoing efforts to enhance community policing and public safety.