Lakewood is a township in Ocean County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the township had a total population of 92,843, making it the second most populous municipality in Ocean County behind Toms River. The township ranked as the seventh most populous municipality in the state in 2010 after gaining a total of 7,130 residents between 2000 and 2010. Located in the Jersey Shore and part of the New York City Metropolitan Area, Lakewood is home to nearly 200,000 residents throughout the year.
Population
Lakewood is one of the fastest growing towns in New Jersey. According to the Wikipedia page for Lakewood, the town’s population grew rapidly from 45,000 in 1990 to over 100,000 by 2016. Much of this growth came from the town’s thriving Orthodox Jewish community. Attracted by the area’s religious institutions and lower cost of living compared to NYC, many Jewish families relocated to Lakewood in the 1990s and 2000s.
As of the 2020 Census, Lakewood had a population of approximately 115,000 residents. With over 5,000 births per year, Lakewood has one of the highest birth rates nationwide. Large households with many children are common in the Orthodox Jewish community.
In addition to the Jewish population, Lakewood has a growing Hispanic and Latino community. Nearly 25% of residents identified as Hispanic or Latino in the 2020 Census. The diversity of Lakewood’s population contributes to its vibrant culture.
Economy and Major Employers
In the past, Lakewood’s economy relied heavily on tourism and resorts due to its location along the Jersey Shore. In recent decades, however, the economy has shifted towards other industries.
Today, the largest employer in Lakewood is Lakewood VA Community Living Center, a veterans home and health facility. Other major employers include Lakewood Hospital, grocery chains, schools, and small businesses within the thriving Orthodox Jewish community.
Commercial and retail businesses in Lakewood include department stores, restaurants, car dealerships and auto shops, hardware stores, pharmacies, historic carousels, and more. While not a heavy industrial town, Lakewood is home to some light manufacturing and production companies as well.
Due to its rapidly growing population, the construction industry is also a significant aspect of Lakewood’s economy. New housing, infrastructure, and facilities are continuously needed to support the expanding population.
Lakewood’s median household income is just over $45,000, with over 18% of residents living below the poverty line according to Census data. Poverty remains an issue, even as the population expands.
Landmarks and Attractions
As a Jersey Shore town, Lakewood has various attractions and landmarks related to its coastal location. The centerpiece is Lake Carasaljo, a manmade lake popular for boating, fishing, and other water activities during the summer months.
Along the lakefront is the historic Lake Carasaljo Carousel, originally built in 1928. The antique merry-go-round still operates today and is one of Lakewood’s most iconic landmarks.
Downtown Lakewood features various shops and eateries along Clifton Avenue, the main commercial street. At the heart of downtown is the Historic Strand Theater, a 1920s era theater that hosts performances and events year-round.
The Orthodox Jewish community has established many of their own landmarks and attractions in Lakewood. There are numerous synagogues, Yeshivas, kosher restaurants, and Jewish businesses contributing to the unique cultural landscape.
For nature lovers, Lakewood is home to a portion of the Pinelands National Reserve, over 1 million acres of protected pine forest, wetlands, and habitats. Various nature trails and activities are available.
Local Government
Lakewood operates under a Township form of municipal government. The day-to-day operations are handled by an appointed Township Manager and staff across various departments. Policy is set by the elected Township Committee, comprised of five members.
Visit the Lakewood Township website for information on local government officials, services, permits, events, and more.
Sports
As a rapidly growing town, Lakewood is home to various youth, high school, adult, and senior leagues for sports like soccer, football, basketball, baseball, and more. The local sports teams compete in regional leagues and championships.
The Lakewood High School Piners compete athletically in the Shore Conference. Their football team plays at the 8,000 seat FirstEnergy Park.
Being situated near the Jersey Shore, water sports like boat racing are also popular. Lakewood hosted Thunderboat races in the 1960s featuring Unlimited Hydroplanes.
Stay Connected
Follow the Lakewood Township Facebook page for regular news and announcements about everything going on in the community. Get involved and stay connected!