Clifton is a city in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2020 United States Census, the city had a total population of 85,141, making it the state’s 11th-largest municipality and the largest not to be a county seat.
Clifton was incorporated as a city by an act of the New Jersey Legislature on April 26, 1917, replacing Acquackanonk Township, based on the results of a referendum held two days earlier. Clifton is listed under five different ZIP Codes (07011 Main Ave, 07012 Allwood, 07013, 07014 Delawanna and 07015 Athenia).
According to the Wikipedia page on Clifton, the city has a population density of 11,088.3 per square mile. Its demographics in 2010 were 66.4% White, 4.92% Black or African American, 0.50% Native American, 8.90% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 14.7% from other races, and 4.48% from two or more races. 30.8% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, there were 85,141 people and 34,054 households residing in Clifton. The racial makeup of the city was 62.3% White, 6.0% Black or African American, 0.4% Native American, 9.6% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, 16.7% from other races, and 5.1% from two or more races. 32.8% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race. The median age was 40.4 years old. The gender breakdown was 48.5% male and 51.5% female.
Of the 34,054 households, 29.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.9% were married couples living together, 13.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.4% were non-families. 24.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.75 and the average family size was 3.20.
Clifton’s population has grown steadily over the decades, with periods of more rapid growth related to immigration. In 1910, the city had a population of 6,100 which increased to 15,000 by 1920. By 1930 it had reached 29,000 residents. Immigration from Eastern Europe following World War II brought further growth, with the population reaching 68,000 by 1950. In the 1970s, a large influx of Cuban immigrants increased the population to 78,000 by 1980. Continued immigration from Latin America and Asia has fueled additional growth in the 21st century.
Economy and Major Employers
Clifton has a diverse economic base, with manufacturing, retail, healthcare, education and government comprising the major industries. According to the City of Clifton’s website, some of the top employers in the city include:
- St. Mary’s Hospital – 2,200 employees
- Clifton Board of Education – 1,974 employees
- City of Clifton – 549 employees
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals – 400+ employees
- DeVry University – 400+ employees
Other notable companies headquartered or with major operations in Clifton include QualCare Alliance Networks, Zoetis, MedPlus Health Plans, and Allegiance Retail Services. The economy benefits from Clifton’s location along Route 3 and proximity to New York City.
The median household income in Clifton was $62,981 as of 2020. About 11.7% of families and 13.9% of individuals were living below the poverty line.
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Clifton include:
- Allwood Park – Features a landmark carousel, mini golf, and amusement rides.
- Weasel Brook Park – Large park with sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails.
- Clifton City Hall – Historic city hall and landmark building constructed in 1931.
- Botto House National Landmark – Historic silk mill and landmark of immigrant labor history.
The Clifton Arts Center and Library also showcase local culture, art, and history. Many neighborhoods feature historic homes reflecting Clifton’s growth over the decades.
Sports
Clifton is home to several sports teams and facilities, including:
- Clifton High School Stallions Football – Nationally ranked high school football program.
- Clifton Stadium – 11,000 seat stadium, home field for the Stallions and local soccer leagues.
- Clifton Recreation Center – Community center with swimming pools, ice rink, and sports fields.
Clifton also has youth sports leagues for baseball, soccer, basketball, and more. Residents are passionate supporters of the local high school and youth sports teams.
Facebook and Social Media
The City of Clifton has an official Facebook page to communicate news, events, and information with over 15,000 followers. Many local groups and organizations also have active Facebook pages and groups frequented by residents.
On other platforms like Twitter and Instagram, hashtags like #CliftonNJ and #CliftonProud are commonly used by locals to share photos, news, and connect over their community. Social media provides a vibrant space for engagement between residents, businesses, and visitors.