Located north of Newark on the Passaic River, the charming city of Passaic is one the fastest growing in the state. Named "valley" in the Native American language of Lenape, this city has evolved from a Dutch township into one of the Garden State's most sought-after communities. According to information gathered by the U.S. Census Bureau, this city is a wonderful place to raise a family, and more than 31 percent of the population is younger than 18. 2010 data indicated that the overall population is estimated to be near 70,000.
The history of Passaic dates back more than 300 years to 1678, when Dutch settlers came in and populated the area alongside Lenni Lenape Native Americans. The city steadily grew due to its ideal location near the Passaic River, a perfect source for transporting both goods and travelers. By the 1860s, the village was growing commercially as well as residentially due to its thriving mills and factories.
Passaic has always been an ethnically diverse community since the beginning. After the American Revolution, a mix of western Europeans came to the area seeking religious freedom. In the 19th century, a great wave of immigrants from all over the world came to Passaic in search for work in the city's many factories. The city continued to grow over the years, but remains densely populated with nearly 70,000 residents in an area of 3.25 square miles.
Passaic is also known for its old movie theaters and entertainment history. The city was populated with many vaudeville artists, movie houses and musical acts. Today, the city remains an evolving work in progress with an eye for the future.
According to the Passaic County website, the major employers in the area include BAE Systems, Drake's bakeries, Maquet Cardiovascular, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center and the United Parcel Service. With a business landscape that prides itself in its variety of job opportunity, this is an ideal location for job-seekers no matter their field. The county has more than 15,000 companies in the small business community as well as large corporations, making Passaic a fantastic place to work, live and play.
Although many students commute to nearby Newark for four-year degrees, Passaic County Community College serves many students seeking two-year degrees and certifications. With educational opportunities in more than 40 fields of study in both traditional and online courses, this is a great college for people from all walks of life. Whether you are a student staying in the city for your education or traveling to nearby Newark, finding rentals in Passaic well before the semester starts will give you the opportunity to find the perfect pad.
Passaic is near Newark and New York City, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world. Because of the area's highly sought-after real estate, the cost of living is higher than the national average. According to information from city-data.com, the median gross rent in the area was $1,058 per month.
One of the best ways to experience the great outdoors in Passaic is to visit Garret Mountain Reservation. A 568-acre recreational area, this is one of the most beautiful places to get picturesque views of northern New Jersey and the New York City skyline. Facilities at this beautiful park include horseback riding, fishing, and trails for cross-country skiing and hiking. Lambert Castle and its famous observation tower are also located on the grounds, so there is plenty of family fun to be had at this stunning recreational area.
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