Old Bridge, NJ

This beautiful township of over 42 square miles is comfortably situated in Middlesex County. With more than 65,000 folks calling it home, Old Bridge seamlessly balances vibrant residential neighborhoods, thriving parks, and top-rated schools with a short commute to and from work centers.

Population 

Old Bridge has a population of around 66,876 residents based on the 2020 census. The residents of Old Bridge enjoy a median household income that affords a pleasant standard of living. According to the most recent census data from 2021, the median income in Old Bridge had risen to $94,153, outpacing inflation.

The racial makeup of the town is predominantly white, with over 60% of the population claiming European heritage. 

Racial Composition

Race	Percentage of Population
White	60.2%
Asian	15.0%
Hispanic or Latino	14.6%
Black or African American	7.3%
Two or more races	3.0%

Though white residents form a small majority, people of many backgrounds call Old Bridge home. Asian and Hispanic communities in particular have grown in recent years. At the same time, over 8% of Old Bridgers can trace their roots to Italy. 

The average household size ranges from 2.59 to 3.17 people per household.

The larger share of the population are middle-aged or older, as evidenced by a median age of 42.8 years. In other words, half the population is over four decades in age while the other half is younger. 

With its mix of incomes, ethnicities, and generations, Old Bridge exhibits diversity within its suburban setting. Its residents tend to be established working professionals or retirees enjoying the fruits of their careers.

History

Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Old Bridge was home to the Lenape people, indigenous hunters, and gatherers from the Unami tribe. They migrated through the lands seasonally utilizing the abundant resources. 

In the 1860s, after waves of development had reached this corner of New Jersey, the township of Madison was incorporated to serve the growing population. It embraced portions of neighboring South Amboy. 

Decades later, to minimize confusion with another Madison located farther north, residents voted to rename their community in 1975. Drawing from the area's nautical roots, they chose Old Bridge to reference the original wooden structure spanning the South River. 

Further bridges were later built, leaving the original as the "old bridge." Key events in Old Bridge's history include celebrating important anniversaries like the centennial of 1969 with festive community activities. For its 150th, the township hosted celebrations and marketing initiatives. 

Recognizing the historic importance of Old Bridge, the national government designated part of the area as the Old Bridge Historic District in 1977. It preserves structures and places significant to the town's artistic, educational, and industrial past. Today, the Madison Township Historical Society continues the work of remembering Old Bridge's origins and patrimony.

Education  

Educational opportunities in Old Bridge begin in its highly rated K-12 public school system. With a student-teacher ratio on par with the state average of 12:1, teachers are able to dedicate individualized attention to each student. 

Old Bridge schools perform above average based on standardized test scores, ranking in the top half of all New Jersey districts. At the high school level, academic excellence continues, with Old Bridge High School graduating over 94% of its 2,711 students. 

Across the district's 15 schools including 10 elementary, 2 middle, and 3 high, names like Walter M. Schirra Elementary and Raymond E. Voorhees Elementary earn top marks. Students represent diverse backgrounds, as minority enrollment of 44% exceeds the state percentage. 

The nearly 8,000 total students are split between white, Asian, Hispanic, black, and multiracial groups.

Healthcare

The health of Old Bridge residents aligns closely with trends across New Jersey. According to recent state data, average life expectancy dropped three years to 77.7 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted the elderly. 

Men tend to live slightly shorter lives than women at 74.8 compared to 80.7 years. Leading causes of death in the area mirror those nationwide, with cancer, heart disease, COVID, strokes, and lung disease. 

Chronic illnesses plaguing the population include cardiovascular and neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease alongside diabetes. Local hospitals endeavor to treat these conditions - Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center and Raritan Bay Medical Center are well-regarded institutions. 

For behavior and mental health issues, residents can access services from Oasis Behavioral Health, Innerspace Counseling, and Bay Behavioral Health. A range of healthcare and support aim to see residents live long and stay healthy.

Quality of Life

Residents of Old Bridge enjoy an excellent quality of life thanks to the town's abundant recreational offerings and safe, family-friendly environment. The Township Department of Parks and Recreation presides over hundreds of acres of verdant open space where community members can be active. Beloved destinations like Mannino Park provide playgrounds, ball fields, and even a canine park. 

Elsewhere, a wide range of fitness classes and tennis lessons are frequently scheduled at municipal courts. Beyond physical activities, residents feel secure in their quiet suburb. Crime rates are well below the national average, with violent offenses half the level seen elsewhere. 

Preserving the peace is a visible and proactive Old Bridge Township Police Department.

Transportation  

Traveling to and from Old Bridge daily involves navigating typical traffic levels. Congestion peaks during morning and evening commutes as residents use Route 9 and Route 18 or the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway to reach jobs nearby. County Route 516 serves as a vital east-west artery running through Old Bridge, facilitating movement and access for residents and commuters in the northern part of town.

The average one-way commute of 38.2 minutes exceeds the national average of 26 minutes. Various options have developed due to traffic volumes.

The Old Bridge Park & Ride provides daily and quarterly parking near key areas. Resources like CarpoolWorld and NJ Rideshare connect drivers seeking carpool partners.  

Fewer solo drivers during rush hours can lessen delays. While traffic is regular, community members make good use of available methods to commute and beyond each day.

Points of Interest

• Cheesequake State Park - Expansive park featuring saltwater and freshwater marshes ideal for hiking, fishing, and canoeing.
• Old Bridge Waterfront Park - Scenic stretch of shoreline along Raritan Bay with a boardwalk, lookouts, nature trail, and more.
• Thomas Warne Museum & Library - Dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Old Bridge Township and New Jersey. It contains plenty of local artifacts dating back to the 19th century. 
• Bury The Hatchet Old Bridge - A unique recreational center where visitors can try their hand at axe-throwing.
• John A. Phillips Open Space Preserve - Features expansive walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.