Marlboro, NJ

Marlboro Township is located in central Monmouth County, New Jersey, approximately 40 miles south of New York City. With a land area of nearly 30.45 square miles, Marlboro has grown into a large suburban community of over 40,000 residents since the 1960s. 

The township remains a popular family-focused area known for its highly rated schools, parks, and open spaces.

Population

According to the latest 2020 census, Marlboro Township has a population of 41,502 residents. From 2020 to 2022, the township’s population declined by 0.3%. The population is predominantly middle to upper-middle class with a median household income of $162,525 as of 2021.

Demographics

Marlboro exhibits cultural diversity within its population. The racial composition includes 73.4% White, 18.5% Asian,  4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 2.3% Black or African American, and 0.2% other races. The median age of residents is 37 years old.

History

Originally settled by Dutch, English, and Scottish settlers as far back as the 1600s, Marlboro shares a history as rich as its neighboring townships. Back then, it was called Marlborough due in part to the presence of marl in the area. Its initial industry centered around exporting the said resource. 

Throughout the 1800s, the area remained a small rural township focused on farming. Starting in the 1960s, Marlboro began transforming into a suburban community as housing construction accelerated. This growth trend has continued, making Marlboro one of the largest towns in Monmouth County today.

Quality of Life

Marlboro offers residents an above-average quality of life with a good mix of restaurants and coffee shops to choose from. 

• The Marlboro Recreation Center, a community swimming pool, and an abundance of parks serve as go-to amenities for the general public. 
• Crime and safety grades ranged from excellent to satisfactory in recent years. 
• The extensive park system and community events nurture a strong sense of civic pride. 

Healthcare

The Family Practice of CentraState provides primary care, specialty care, and geriatric services for the township’s residents. The Medical Associates of Marlboro (MAOM) is another notable provider that serves most townships located in central and south New Jersey. 

Shopping and Dining 

Manalapan Commons offers a mix of popular national retailers like Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy, Old Navy, and Barnes & Noble. Visitors will find everything from clothing and home goods to electronics. Those seeking outlet shopping can visit the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets in nearby Tinton Falls, a large outdoor mall with over 100 brand-name stores.

For dining, top-rated restaurants in the area include Cuzin's Seafood Clam Bar, known for fresh seafood in an upscale setting, and Molto Wood Burning Bistro for creative Italian cuisine. La Rosa Chicken & Grill is a local favorite serving delicious chicken dishes and generous portions.

Other dining favorites also include Over Easy Kitchen which receives rave reviews for breakfast and brunch. Osteria Cucina Rustica, Il Nido, Nonna's Citi Cucina, and Metropolitan Cafe are also popular choices.

Education

Marlboro is served by highly rated public schools including seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and Marlboro High School. Private and parochial school options are also available near the township.

Marlboro High School was ranked among the top public high schools in the country in 2014. In 2016, it placed 421st among the 500 best high schools in America. On the other hand, Marlboro Middle School ranks 133rd out of the 747 middle schools in New Jersey. 

Transportation

Mass transit options include NJ Transit buses connecting Marlboro to surrounding areas. Some of the bus routes that pass near Marlboro include the 131 and 135. Most residents in Marlboro drive personal vehicles on the township's well-developed road network, and nearby access to multiple highways makes commuting convenient.

Points of Interest

Marlboro has a few notable attractions and cultural sites, namely:

Pleasant Valley Lavender Farms – Visitors can wander through over 5 acres of lavender fields during blooming season. In addition to picking lavender, guests can shop for lavender products, enjoy picnic areas, and take photos.

The Henry Hudson Trail – This partially paved 27-mile trail passes through multiple parks and woodlands. It provides a scenic place to walk, jog, bike, or rollerblade. Benches, water fountains, and restrooms are available along the route.

Old Brick Reformed Church – This is a historic church dating back to the 18th century that offers a glimpse into the township's past. Dutch settlers founded it in 1699, and its cemetery contains graves of Revolutionary War soldiers.

Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital – Served as a public hospital from the 1930s to the 1990s. After being abandoned, it earned a reputation for being a haunted location, one of the notable few in Monmouth County.