Cities and Towns in Passaic County, New Jersey

Founded in 1837, Passaic County is one of 21 counties in the state of New Jersey. Historically, Passaic County was formed from Bergen County and Essex County. The city of Paterson is the county seat. With FIPS code of 31, Passaic County has a population of 518,117 and area of 185 square miles (479 km²).

List of all cities in Passaic County, NJ alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Allwood, NJ 07012 973/862
Awosting, NJ 07421 973/862
Bloomingdale, NJ 07403 973/862
Clifton, NJ 07011 973/862
07012 973/862
07013 973/862
07014 973/862
07015 973/862
Cozy Lake, NJ 07438 973/862
Cupsaw Lake, NJ 07456 973/862
Delawanna, NJ 07014 973/862
Dundee, NJ 07055 973/862
Erskine, NJ 07456 973/862
Erskine Lakes, NJ 07456 973/862
Gordon Lakes, NJ 07480 973/862
Great Notch, NJ 07424 973/862
Green Pond, NJ 07435 973/862
Greenwood Lake, NJ 07421 973/862
Haledon, NJ 07508 973/862
07538 973/862
Haskell, NJ 07420 973/862
Hawthorne, NJ 07506 973/862
07507 973/862
Hewitt, NJ 07421 973/862
Hillcrest, NJ 07502 973/862
Jefferson Township, NJ 07438 973/862
Lake Swannanoa, NJ 07438 973/862
Lionshead Lake, NJ 07470 973/862
Little Falls, NJ 07424 973/862
Main Avenue Station, NJ 07011 973/862
Midvale, NJ 07465 973/862
Mountain View, NJ 07470 973/862
Newfoundland, NJ 07435 973/862
North Haledon, NJ 07508 973/862
07538 973/862
Oak Ridge, NJ 07438 973/862
Packanack Lake, NJ 07470 973/862
Passaic, NJ 07055 973/862
Passaic Park, NJ 07055 973/862
Paterson, NJ 07501 973/862
07502 973/862
07503 973/862
07504 973/862
07505 973/862
07506 973/862
07507 973/862
07508 973/862
07509 973/862
07510 973/862
07511 973/862
07512 973/862
07513 973/862
07514 973/862
07522 973/862
07524 973/862
07533 973/862
07538 973/862
07543 973/862
07544 973/862
Peoples Park, NJ 07513 973/862
07543 973/862
Pine Cliff Lake, NJ 07480 973/862
Pines Lake, NJ 07470 973/862
Pompton Falls, NJ 07442 973/862
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442 973/862
Preakness, NJ 07470 973/862
Prospect Park, NJ 07508 973/862
07538 973/862
Ringwood, NJ 07456 973/862
Shady Lake, NJ 07480 973/862
Singac, NJ 07424 973/862
Skyline Lakes, NJ 07456 973/862
South Paterson, NJ 07503 973/862
South Paterson, NJ 07533 973/862
Totowa, NJ 07502 973/862
Totowa, NJ 07511 973/862
Totowa, NJ 07512 973/862
Totowa Boro, NJ 07512 973/862
Upper Greenwood Lake, NJ 07421 973/862
Wanaque, NJ 07465 973/862
Wayne, NJ 07470 973/862
Wayne, NJ 07474 973/862
West Milford, NJ 07480 973/862
West Milford Lakes, NJ 07480 973/862
West Paterson, NJ 07424 973/862
Woodland Park, NJ 07424 973/862

Major Cities and Towns in Passaic County, New Jersey

Paterson

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 8.7 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 160,000
  • Zip Codes: 07501, 07502, 07503, 07504, 07505, 07506, 07508, 07522
  • Latitude: 40.9168° N
  • Longitude: 74.1718° W

Location and History

Paterson is the largest city in Passaic County and the third-largest in New Jersey. Located on the Passaic River, it was founded in 1791 by Alexander Hamilton and incorporated as a city in 1851. Hamilton envisioned Paterson as an industrial hub and a model city of commerce and manufacturing. The city quickly became a leader in textile production, with the city’s mills powered by the Great Falls of the Passaic River, which provided the necessary water power for the burgeoning factories. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Paterson was known as the “Silk City” for its dominance in the silk industry. However, as the economy shifted over time, Paterson experienced economic decline, and many factories closed in the post-World War II years. Despite these challenges, the city remains an important cultural and economic center in the region, with ongoing revitalization efforts to preserve its industrial heritage while diversifying into new sectors like technology, healthcare, and education.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Paterson is served by the Paterson Public Schools district, which includes a number of elementary and secondary schools, with Passaic County Technical Institute providing specialized education in vocational fields. The city is home to several higher education institutions, including William Paterson University, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Major landmarks in Paterson include the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, which preserves the city’s historic industrial roots and natural beauty. The Great Falls themselves are one of the largest waterfalls in the United States by volume, and the park features walking paths, an observation deck, and historical sites related to the city’s industrial past. Other landmarks include the Hinchliffe Stadium, an iconic landmark that hosted African American baseball teams during the early 20th century, and the Lambert Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. The city also has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with theaters, museums, and galleries.


Clifton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 11.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 89,000
  • Zip Codes: 07011, 07012, 07013, 07014
  • Latitude: 40.8584° N
  • Longitude: 74.1638° W

Location and History

Clifton, located in the eastern part of Passaic County, is one of the most populous cities in the county and part of the New York City metropolitan area. The land that would become Clifton was settled in the mid-1600s and was part of the larger Acquackanonk Township. It was originally an agricultural area but began to grow as a residential and industrial center after the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. The city incorporated as Clifton in 1917, and it quickly developed into a key suburban community, with textile mills, manufacturing plants, and other industries contributing to its growth. The city experienced rapid suburbanization after World War II and is now known for its residential neighborhoods, businesses, and recreational facilities. Clifton has a diverse population and is home to a range of cultural and ethnic communities. It also offers excellent access to major highways, making it a desirable place to live for those commuting to New York City or other nearby urban centers.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Clifton is served by the Clifton Public Schools district, which includes a variety of elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as several private schools. The city is also home to Montclair State University, just a short distance away, providing residents with access to higher education. Major landmarks in Clifton include the Clifton Reservoir, which offers scenic views, walking trails, and recreational facilities for residents. The Garret Mountain Reservation, a large park, provides hiking trails, a historic mansion, and panoramic views of the area. The city’s former industrial area, known as the Botany Mills Historic District, is now a hub for office buildings, apartments, and businesses, reflecting Clifton’s transformation from an industrial city to a vibrant suburban community. Other attractions include the Clifton Arts Center and the Paterson Museum, which highlight the city’s industrial past and cultural history. Additionally, Clifton is home to several shopping centers and restaurants, offering a variety of amenities to residents.


Wayne

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 26.2 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 54,000
  • Zip Codes: 07470, 07474
  • Latitude: 40.9478° N
  • Longitude: 74.2552° W

Location and History

Wayne is a suburban township located in the northern part of Passaic County. Originally settled in the late 17th century, Wayne was incorporated in 1847. The township’s name is in honor of General “Mad” Anthony Wayne, a prominent military figure in the American Revolution. Historically, Wayne was an agricultural community, with farming and mills playing significant roles in its economy. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the township grew rapidly with the construction of railroads and the rise of industry in the region. In the post-World War II era, Wayne transformed into a suburban community as more residents moved to the area seeking a quiet, family-friendly environment close to New York City. Today, Wayne is known for its residential neighborhoods, parks, and access to large shopping centers, while still maintaining a connection to its rural roots through the preservation of open spaces.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wayne is served by the Wayne Township Public Schools district, which offers a range of schools from elementary to high school. Wayne Hills High School and Wayne Valley High School are two notable public high schools in the area. The township is also home to William Paterson University, providing access to higher education. One of the major landmarks in Wayne is the Wayne Valley, a historic site known for its rich agricultural history. The Preakness Valley Golf Course offers residents recreational activities with scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The Eagle Rock Reservation is another key park, providing hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the New York City skyline on clear days. Additionally, Wayne is home to the Willowbrook Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the region, offering a wide variety of retail options and entertainment. The township’s proximity to major highways, including Interstate 80, makes it a convenient location for commuters.


West Milford

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 78.9 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 25,000
  • Zip Codes: 07421
  • Latitude: 41.1459° N
  • Longitude: 74.4440° W

Location and History

West Milford is a township located in the northwestern part of Passaic County, bordering the New York state line. Established in 1834, the area was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans and later settled by European colonists in the 18th century. West Milford is known for its rural and natural landscape, with a high concentration of forests, lakes, and parks. The township’s early economy was based on agriculture, and it remained a largely rural area until the mid-20th century, when it began to develop as a residential suburb. Over the years, West Milford has attracted people seeking a quieter lifestyle in a natural setting while still maintaining access to urban centers. The township is particularly known for its large number of lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Major Schools and Landmarks

West Milford is served by the West Milford Township School District, which includes a number of elementary and secondary schools. The township also has a variety of recreational opportunities, including numerous parks and hiking trails in the nearby Abram S. Hewitt State Forest and the Wawayanda State Park. West Milford is also home to Greenwood Lake, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The West Milford Historical Society offers programs and exhibits showcasing the town’s past, while the Mount Peter Ski Area attracts visitors during the winter months for skiing and snowboarding. The township is also known for its large rural homes and beautiful landscapes, making it a desirable location for families seeking privacy and access to outdoor activities.


Hawthorne

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 2.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 18,000
  • Zip Codes: 07506
  • Latitude: 40.9480° N
  • Longitude: 74.1642° W

Location and History

Hawthorne is a borough located in the central part of Passaic County. It was settled in the early 18th century and incorporated as a borough in 1898. Originally an agricultural area, the town began to grow with the establishment of mills and factories during the industrial revolution. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hawthorne became a major center for manufacturing, particularly textiles and ironworks, which helped fuel its growth. Over time, the town transitioned from an industrial base to a residential community, with many of its factories closing by the mid-20th century. Today, Hawthorne is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets, attractive residential neighborhoods, and access to nearby urban areas, making it a popular place for commuters working in nearby cities like Paterson and New York City.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hawthorne is served by the Hawthorne Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Hawthorne High School. The town also has several private schools and a strong community focus on education. Key landmarks in Hawthorne include Goffle Brook Park, a large green space with walking paths, sports fields, and a pond, which serves as a hub for outdoor activities. The borough is also home to the Hawthorne Historical Society, which operates a museum showcasing the town’s history. Additionally, Hawthorne is well-connected to transportation networks, including bus routes and nearby train stations, providing residents with easy access to both local amenities and major metropolitan areas. The town also has a variety of local shops, restaurants, and small businesses that contribute to its community-oriented feel.