The Geography of Irvington, New Jersey
Irvington is a compact yet strategically positioned township in Essex County, New Jersey located in the northeastern part of the state. Bordered by Newark to the east and Hillside and Union to the south, Irvington is a densely populated urban-suburban community with easy access to major highways and public transportation. Just 12 miles west of Manhattan, Irvington benefits from its proximity to New York City while offering its own residential and commercial identity.
The township covers approximately 2.9 square miles, making it one of the smaller municipalities in the region by land area. Despite its size, Irvington features a range of topographical characteristics. The terrain is mostly flat with gentle slopes, ideal for urban development and residential neighborhoods. Small parks and green spaces, such as Irvington Park and Chancellor Park, offer pockets of greenery amidst a densely built environment. The Union and Elizabeth rivers run near the township’s boundaries, contributing to the area's historical development and landscape features.
Transportation plays a key role in Irvington's geographic importance. The Garden State Parkway runs through the township, providing north-south access across New Jersey, while nearby Interstate 78 allows for quick connections to Newark Liberty International Airport and the New Jersey Turnpike. Irvington is also served by NJ Transit buses and is close to several commuter rail stations, enhancing its appeal for daily commuters. The township's central location within Essex County makes it a vital connector between urban centers and suburban communities throughout North Jersey.
Population of Irvington, New Jersey
Irvington, located in Essex County, New Jersey, is a densely populated township with a rich demographic profile. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of July 1, 2023, the estimated population was 59,925, reflecting a slight decrease from the 2020 census count of 61,176.
Historical Population Trends
Over the past two decades, Irvington's population has experienced fluctuations. In 2000, the population was 60,695, which declined by 11.2% to 53,926 in 2010. However, the following decade saw a resurgence, with a 13.4% increase to 61,176 by 2020.
Age Distribution
The township has a relatively young population, with a median age of 34.9 years. About 23.1% of residents are under the age of 18, while 12.4% are 65 years and older.
Household and Income Statistics
Irvington comprises approximately 22,166 households, with an average household size of 2.7 individuals. The median household income stands at $59,232, which is lower than both the Essex County median of $76,712 and the New Jersey state median of $101,050.
Population Density
Covering an area of 2.9 square miles, Irvington has a high population density of about 20,703.4 people per square mile, making it one of the most densely populated municipalities in the state.