What is the Biggest Township in NJ? Unpacking the Largest Township in New Jersey with Hamilton and Woodbridge Township, NJ

When you ask, "What is the biggest township in NJ?" you might expect a simple “case closed” answer. But in New Jersey, the question has a bit of a twist — are we talking land area, population, or total area including water? So grab your virtual explorer hat, and let’s take a journey through New Jersey’s largest township in all its expansive glory, with a special spotlight on Hamilton Township, Atlantic County — often hailed as New Jersey’s largest municipality — and a nod to the populous Woodbridge Township, NJ.

The Title Battle: Hamilton Township vs. Galloway Township — Who’s the Largest?

Hamilton Township in Atlantic County proudly brands itself as "New Jersey’s Largest Municipality" — a claim backed by the largest land area of any municipality in the state. Here are the numbers that tell the story:

• Hamilton Township, Atlantic County:

  • Land area: 110.90 square miles (287.22 km²) — largest land area in NJ

  • Total area (land + water): 112.94 square miles (292.52 km²) — second-largest municipality by total area

  • Population (2023 estimate): 28,266 residents

• Galloway Township, Atlantic County:

  • Total area (including water): 114.49 square miles (296.5 km²) — actually larger than Hamilton when water is included

So if you’re a stickler for dry land, Hamilton takes the crown. But if you appreciate a splash of water in your stats, neighboring Galloway Township might just be your “biggest.” This bit of rivalry calls to mind those classic sibling debates — “Who’s bigger?” and “But I’m bigger because…”

Fun Fact: Hamilton Township was incorporated way back on February 5, 1813, and named after none other than Alexander Hamilton. Talk about a namesake with punch!

Hamilton Township: The Giant of the Garden State

Let’s zoom in deeper on Hamilton, Atlantic County. Why so big and why does it matter? Here’s a quick guide:

Geography & Size

• Hamilton Township’s vastness is comparable to a small county in other states. Stretching across 110.9 square miles of land, it encompasses:
  

  • Mays Landing (the county seat of Atlantic County)

  • McKee City and Mizpah (census-designated places within the township)

• It’s part of the South Jersey region and sits within the Philadelphia-Reading-Camden combined statistical area — a strategic location that blends suburban and rural charm.

Population & Growth

• The population has steadily grown:

  • 20,499 in 2000

  • 26,503 in 2010

  • 27,484 in 2020

  • Estimated 28,266 in 2023

• With a population density of roughly 248 residents per square mile, it maintains a spacious feel compared to bustling urban townships.

Economy & Retail Power

• Hamilton is not just big in space, but in commerce too:
  

  • Over 3 million square feet of retail space, including the popular Hamilton Mall & Hamilton Commons

  • Balic Winery, a local gem established in 1966, producing 27 varietals on 57 acres — yes, even giant townships produce fine wine!

Parks & Recreation — For the Nature Lovers

• Vast natural areas such as the Lake Lenape Parks offer over 2,000 acres of recreational space.

• The Great Egg Harbor River runs through Hamilton, historically supporting local shipbuilding in the 19th century — a real example of how geography shapes history.

Shining a Light on Woodbridge Township, NJ: The Population Powerhouse

Now, if you’re curious about the biggest township by population — that would be Woodbridge Township, NJ in Middlesex County. It’s the most populous township in New Jersey, boasting over 100,000 residents (approx 103,000+). So while Hamilton wins with acreage, Woodbridge rules town in sheer numbers, featuring:

• Dense residential and commercial development

• A vibrant transportation network connecting to NYC and Newark via NJ Transit

• A rich history dating back to 1669, making it one of the oldest townships in the country

So the takeaway: Largest by land? That’s Hamilton. Largest by people? Woodbridge Township, NJ.

Key Points: What Makes ‘Biggest Township in NJ’ Actually Big?

To fully answer “What is the biggest township in NJ?” you need to consider:

1. Largest Township by Land Area:

   • Hamilton Township (Atlantic County) — 110.90 square miles land area, largest in New Jersey.

2. Largest Township by Total Area (Land + Water):

   • Galloway Township (Atlantic County) — 114.49 square miles total area, slightly bigger than Hamilton when including water.

3. Largest Township by Population:

   • Woodbridge Township, NJ — over 100,000 residents, the most populous in the state.

4. Municipal Government & Services:

   • Hamilton Township uses the Township Committee form of government with 5 members elected at-large.

   • Population and land size influence governance, infrastructure, and services.

5. Historical Perspective:

   • Hamilton incorporated in 1813; named after Alexander Hamilton.

   • Area historically significant for shipbuilding and agriculture.

6. Geographic & Environmental Factors:

   • Hamilton lies within the New Jersey Pinelands National Reserve, which influences land use and development.

   • Development concentrated in regional growth areas; large preserved forested and rural areas remain.

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FAQs: Because We Love to Answer Your Burning Questions

Q1: Is Hamilton Township really the largest township in NJ?
Yes, Hamilton Township has the largest land area of any municipality in New Jersey, at approximately 110.9 square miles.

Q2: Which township has the highest population in NJ?
That would be Woodbridge Township in Middlesex County, with over 100,000 residents.

Q3: What is the difference between Hamilton Township and Woodbridge Township?
Hamilton is the largest by land size, with a quieter, more suburban-rural mix, while Woodbridge is densely populated, with more urban amenities.

Q4: Are these townships part of any larger metropolitan areas?
Yes, Hamilton Township is part of the Philadelphia metropolitan area, and Woodbridge Township is part of the New York metropolitan area.

Let's Wrap It Up with some Real Talk

So, New Jersey’s biggest township isn’t just one place — it’s a story about land, population, history, and modern living. Hamilton Township stakes its claim as the largest by land, with sprawling forests, commercial hubs, and a rich maritime past, while Woodbridge Township packs in the people and the hustle. Both have their own special place in the Garden State’s mosaic.

All jokes and sibling-town rivalries aside, each township contributes uniquely to New Jersey’s vibrant fabric — proving that “biggest” can mean many things.

If you’re fascinated by New Jersey’s municipalities and thinking about making a move, learning the geography and lifestyle of places like Hamilton Township and Woodbridge Township, NJ could be your first step.

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Feel free to reach out for more insider info on New Jersey’s real estate landscape. Curious about townships, neighborhoods, or market trends? Drop a comment, share this post, or ask for a personalized consultation — I got you covered!

Sources:

• Wikipedia - Hamilton Township, Atlantic County, NJ

• US Census Bureau

• New Jersey Department of Education

• The Press of Atlantic City

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