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Edison is a township located in Middlesex County in central New Jersey. As of the 2020 census, Edison had an estimated population of 102,450 residents, making it the fifth most populous municipality in New Jersey. It is one of the fastest growing towns in the state.

Edison was formerly known as "Raritan Township" until 1954 when it was changed to Edison Township in honor of inventor Thomas Edison, whose world headquarters for General Electric was located there for many years before being moved to Boston.

History

The Lenape Native Americans were the earliest known inhabitants of what is now Edison. The first European settlers arrived in the 1600s when Henry Hudson explored the region. In the 18th century, the area was known as Piscatawaytown and was populated mainly by Quakers. It began to grow following the construction of rail lines and became known for its production of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

In 1870, Raritan Township was established and named after the Raritan River. In 1876, Thomas Edison set up his home and research laboratory in the Menlo Park section of the township. It was from here that he invented the light bulb and phonograph. Edison left Menlo Park in 1884 but his name continued to be associated with township. After residents voted to change the name in 1954, Edison Township was officially incorporated on January 1, 1955.

For more history, visit the Township of Edison Municipal Clerk.

Geography and Population

Edison is located at 40.5187° N, 74.4120° W. It has a total area of 30.638 square miles, including 0.133 square miles of water. Edison completely surrounds the borough of Metuchen, New Jersey.

As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 102,450 people and 38,007 households residing in Edison. The population density was 3,318 people per square mile. The racial makeup of Edison was 44.79% White, 7.58% Black or African American, 0.14% Native American, 43.99% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 1.42% from other races, and 2.06% from two or more races.

Edison has a large Asian population, with significant communities of Asian Indians and Chinese. Around 37% of Edison residents were born outside of the United States.

Economy and Major Employers

Originally known for its production of produce and flowers, Edison is now a major economic center. Its accessible location near New York City and along major rail lines has made it attractive for warehouses and industry. Some of the major companies and employers located in Edison include:

For more information on business and economic development in Edison, visit the Edison Economic Development Corporation.

Landmarks and Places of Interest

Some of the most notable landmarks and points of interest in Edison include:

Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park

37 Christie St, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 549-3299

Thomas Edison's laboratory and home from 1876 to 1884. Features a museum and restored buildings showcasing his life and inventions. GPS Coordinates: 40.5210452, -74.2968448

Edison Memorial Tower

37 Christie St, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 549-3299

131-foot tall Art Deco monument constructed in 1938 to honor Thomas Edison. Located near his Menlo Park laboratory. GPS coordinates: 40.5190851, -74.2964639

Roosevelt Park

1 Municipal Blvd, Edison, NJ 08817
Phone: (732) 248-7310

Large park featuring lakes, walking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and the Edison Municipal Complex. GPS coordinates: 40.5165679, -74.3009679

Lake Papaianni

100 Municipal Blvd, Edison, NJ 08817
Phone: (732) 248-7310

scenic lake located in Roosevelt Park. Popular spot for fishing and ice skating in winter. GPS coordinates: 40.5187798, -74.3095228

Public Library

Edison is served by the Edison Public Library which has three locations:

Main Branch
340 Plainfield Ave
Edison, NJ 08817
Phone: (732) 287-2298

North Edison Branch
777 Grove Ave
Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 548-3045

Clara Barton Branch
141 Hoover Ave
Edison, NJ 08837
Phone: (732) 738-9393

The library offers books, media, programs, classes, meeting spaces, and other resources to the community. Library cards are free for residents of Edison and nearby towns.

Museums

Edison is home to the following museums:

Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park
37 Christie St, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 549-3299

Showcases Thomas Edison's life, inventions, and laboratory. Admission fee.

Tree House Children's Museum
295 Valley Road, Edison, NJ 08817
Phone: (732) 548-6011

Interactive children's museum with hands-on exhibits and programs. Admission fee.

American Labor Museum
83 Norwood Ave, Botany Village, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 287-7811

Highlights the history of labor and industry in America. Free admission.

Public Transportation

Edison has bus service provided by NJ Transit, the major public transportation provider in New Jersey. The following bus routes serve Edison and connect to other Middlesex County destinations as well as Newark, New York City, and Philadelphia:

NJ Transit's Northeast Corridor rail line runs through Edison. The closest stations are Metuchen and Metropark in nearby Iselin. These stations provide train service to Newark, New York City, Trenton, and Philadelphia.

For schedules, fares, and other transit information, visit the NJ Transit website.

County and Local Government

Edison is located in Middlesex County. The county government center is located at:

Middlesex County Administration Building
75 Bayard Street
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Phone: (732) 745-3300

More information about Middlesex County services and departments can be found on the county website.

The Edison Municipal Complex, housing the local government offices, is located at:

Edison Municipal Complex
100 Municipal Blvd
Edison, NJ 08817
Phone: (732) 248-7200

More information about Edison Township departments and services can be found on the township website.

Schools

Public schools in Edison are operated by the Edison Township Public Schools district. The district has 16 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 3 high schools. Information about the district can be found at the Edison Public Schools website.

Edison is also home to the following private schools:

Sports and Recreation

The Edison Recreation Department maintains parks, fields, playgrounds and offers sports leagues, programs, and events throughout the year. Their office is located at:

Edison Municipal Complex
100 Municipal Blvd
Edison, NJ 08817
Phone: (732) 248-7310

Popular sports teams and organizations based in Edison include:

Edison's professional soccer team, the Edison Warriors, play in the local Fabolous 4 league. Get more info on their Facebook page.

Local Resources

Here are some additional resources for those living in or visiting Edison: