History
Matawan is a borough in Monmouth County, New Jersey, with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. It was formed as a borough on June 28, 1895, from portions of Matawan Township (now Aberdeen Township), based on the results of a referendum held that day. It was originally settled by Dutch settlers and later by Scottish Presbyterians who named it New Aberdeen2. It is also known for being one of the sites of shark attacks in 1916 that inspired the novel Jaws2.
Population
Matawan has a population of 9,717 people as of 2020, which makes it the 153rd largest city in New Jersey and the 4209th largest city in the United States. It is a suburb of New York City and one of the best places to live in New Jersey. Most residents own their homes and enjoy a dense suburban feel23. The median household income is $98,750 and the median home value is $358,3002
Matawan has a diverse population with different ethnicities, races, ages and genders. The racial composition of Matawan is 67.8% White, 14.9% Asian, 10.6% Hispanic, 5.1% Black or African American and 1.6% other races. The median age is 40.4 years and the gender ratio is 50.3% male and 49.7% female.
Matawan is growing at a moderate rate of 0.79% annually and its population has increased by 1.59% since the most recent census in 20203. It has a population density of 4,288 people per square mile, which is higher than the state average of 1,210 people per square mile.
Education
Matawan has a high level of education among its residents. The percentage of people who have completed high school is 94.3%, which is higher than the national average of 87.7%. The percentage of people who have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher is 46.8%, which is also higher than the national average of 32.1%
Matawan’s public schools are part of the Matawan-Aberdeen Regional School District, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. The district has six elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Matawan Regional High School is ranked 58th in New Jersey by US News and World Report and has a graduation rate of 95%. The district also offers various programs such as gifted and talented, special education, bilingual education, advanced placement and more.
Matawan also has some private schools, such as St. Benedict School, which is a Catholic school for students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. There are also some families who choose to homeschool their children for various reasons, such as religious beliefs, cultural values or dissatisfaction with public schools.
Health
Matawan has a good health status among its residents. The percentage of people who have health insurance is 94.9%, which is higher than the national average of 91.5%. The percentage of people who have a regular source of medical care is 88.7%, which is also higher than the national average of 85.4%.
Matawan’s health office provides various services such as immunizations, health education, disease prevention, animal control and more. The office also works with other agencies such as Monmouth County Health Department, New Jersey Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to protect and promote public health.
Matawan also has some medical facilities, such as Matawan Medical Associates, which is a practice with four physicians covering three specialty areas of medicine, and Matawan Medical Center, which is a group practice with six physicians covering five specialty areas of medicine3. There are also some dental clinics, such as Central Jersey Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery P.A., which offers oral surgery services.
Transport
Matawan has a long commute time among its residents, making public transit a bit of a drag. The average one-way commute time is 40.4 minutes, which is higher than the national average of 26.4 minutes. The percentage of people who work from home is 7.9%, which is lower than the national average of 10.3%.
Matawan’s transport system consists mainly of buses and trains that connect to New York City and other nearby areas.
The NJ Transit operates a bus service from Rt-34 At Broad St# to Port Authority Bus Terminal hourly, which takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes. NJ Transit also operates a train service from Aberdeen-Matawan to New York Penn Station hourly, which takes about 1 hour and 12 minutes.
Matawan also has some roads that connect to other towns and cities, such as Route 34, Route 79 and Garden State Parkway. However, these roads can be congested or affected by weather conditions, causing delays or accidents.
Points of Interest
Matawan is a town with several unique points of interest that can cater to your recreational needs or provide an exciting escape with ease. Here are just a few possibilities:
- One delightful option is Keyport Waterfront Park, home to a 1.5-mile paved trail, gazebo, benches, fishing pier, marina, and September 11 Memorial. Take in the waterfront view while relaxing on one of the many park benches or bring your bike and take a ride along the trail with family and friends.
- Another great option for outdoor enthusiasts is Cheesequake State Park which offers hiking trails, lakes, camping sites, picnic areas and even a nature center. Enjoy the natural beauty while exploring the trails suitable for every hiking skill level.
- For those looking for something more unique why not try Bury The Hatchet – Matawan? This ax throwing venue provides a fun activity that you’re sure to enjoy with friends and loved ones. It’s an unexpected activity that will give you all something to talk about long after you leave.
- Sri Guruvayoorappan Temple is another remarkable place worth visiting in Matawan. As a Hindu temple it hosts religious services as well as cultural events. Take your time admiring the gorgeous architecture that surrounds you while learning more about Hindu culture.
- For those looking for great food and drinks look no further than Maloney’s Pub. It’s very popular among locals because of its cozy atmosphere that feels comforting at every visit. Sip on delicious beverages or indulge in tasty bites from their menu.
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