Newark, New Jersey is a city that many people may overlook when thinking of a major metropolitan area in the Northeast. This unfortunately is a common mistake, especially once you learn about the city's long history, rich culture and vibrant lifestyle. Here is a quick snapshot of what the city represents and why it should no longer be overlooked.
HISTORY/GEOGRAPHY:
Established as a township in 1693 and reincorporated as a city in 1836, Newark is designated as one of the oldest cities in the United States. Spanning roughly 26 square miles and with a population of over 282,000, Newark is the largest city in the state of New Jersey. The city is divided into five main wards; North, South, East, West and Central. Each of these wards contribute their own flavor to the city's dynamic culture. From the nature rich landscape of Weequahic Park in the South ward, to the bustling downtown district in the Central ward, Newark contains a variety of landscape views that are well worth visiting.
Within the downtown district, you have an assortment of major companies that call Newark home, anchored by Prudential Financial. In addition to Panasonic, PSEG as well as New Jersey Transit, the downtown district contains some major players when it comes to keeping the local economy alive and well. Not only is Newark important in the corporate world, but from an educational standpoint, both New Jersey Institute of Technology and Rutgers Newark Campus reside within the city and are each included on the list of top schools within the state of New Jersey.
If you're looking for entertainment, look no further than New Jersey Performing Arts Center, which is also located in the downtown district. Prepare yourself for world class performances in dance, highlighted by the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, as well as a multitude of concerts. plays and corporate sponsored events. If this wasn't enough, downtown Newark is also home to the Prudential Center, which offers an assortment of major sporting events, concerts, and comedy tours.
DEMOGRAPHICS:
There is no way you can mention Newark without acknowledging the high level of diversity that exists within the city. According to the latest census numbers, the racial composition is as follows:
- Black or African American - 47%
- Hispanic - 37%
- White - 12%
- Other Races - 4%
With this level of diversity, Newark is a true melting pot, with a colorful array of different races and cultures intermingled within the city. This adds plenty of spice to the city's culture when it comes to fashion, art, music and food. Newark is the second most racially diverse city in the state of New Jersey.
CLIMATE:
For those that love the changing of seasons, Newark is the perfect place for you. For the summer fanatics who love the sultry weather, Newark temperatures can easily climb into the 90's at times and rival the heat of any city in Florida. On the opposite end of the spectrum, for those that love keeping warm by a fireplace, there is nothing better than watching the freshly fallen snow blanket the city landscape during the winter. If you're more in the middle when it comes to weather temperatures, then watching the cherry blossoms bloom in Branch Brook Park during the comfortable spring time conditions may be right up your alley. Or maybe witnessing the vibrant leaf color changes and inhaling the cool crisp air in autumn may be more your speed. No matter your taste in temperature, Newark can provide a sampling of whatever weather you truly enjoy.
Based on this quick snapshot and new found knowledge of Newark, the next time someone asks you to list a major metropolitan area in the Northeast, hopefully Newark will make the cut and no longer be overlooked. Feel free to explore further and pay a visit to Newark, which has so much more to offer than you may think.