New Jersey is a northeastern state along the Atlantic coast. Originally one of the 13 colonies, it joined the United States in 1787 and became known as the “Garden State.” Today, its economy is based primarily on manufacturing and is also a leader in information technology and pharmaceuticals. Tourism is also an important industry, with Atlantic City a major destination.
In addition to the state’s prestigious universities, it is home to many leading research and biological science companies. New Jersey’s economy also benefits from its central location and the ease of travel across the state. The New Jersey Turnpike opened in 1951, allowing for speedy car travel between North and South Jersey, and two light rails introduced in the early 2000s boosted urban revitalization.
In contrast to the more urbanized areas of New York and the crowded coastal cities, much of rural New Jersey remains sparsely populated. This gives the state’s residents more space and privacy, and provides a better environment for farming and raising livestock. The state’s population has continued to grow and the number of people living in suburban communities is increasing, as are those who live near metropolitan areas. In recent years, the number of whites has dropped and there has been a proportional increase in the numbers of urban blacks and Hispanics.
The state’s capital is Trenton. The city was founded in 1674 by Dutch colonists and is a historic and cultural center. Many of the city’s landmarks have been designated a National Historic Landmark. In the 19th century, it became a center of industry, and the population grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution. In the 20th century, it became a center of immigration from Europe and Asia. The city’s population is now predominantly Hispanic and African American, with whites making up only about two-thirds of the total.
Approximately 2 million people work in the state. The unemployment rate is about 5%, which is below the national average. The state’s median household income is about $51,000. Its largest employer is the pharmaceutical industry, and other large employers include food processing, chemicals, steel, and electronics. The state’s most prominent newspaper is the Star-Ledger, owned by the Newark-based Advance Publications. Other notable publications are The Jersey Journal, The Times in Trenton, and the Staten Island Advance. In addition, several radio stations and television networks are headquartered in the state. The state is served by the Newark Liberty International Airport. The Newark-New York City-Philadelphia Amtrak train terminal is the nation’s busiest commuter railroad station and connects the state with the nation’s metro areas. The state’s transportation system includes buses, trains, and taxicabs.