Livingston NJ

A family-focused suburb blending picturesque nature with modern conveniences, Livingston offers residents the best of both worlds. This vibrant township provides robust civic life and easy transportation access within a beautiful setting.

Population

Livingston had a population of 31,330 at the 2020 census, on 14.12 square miles. Population density sits at about 2,273 people per square mile.

The population grew rapidly beginning in the 1950s as families flocked to the newly developed subdivisions. Growth leveled off by the 1980s. Today the population continues to expand slowly.

Livingston has grown more diverse. At the 2020 census the population was 60% non-Hispanic white, 28.8% Asian, 3.0% Black and 5.1% Hispanic or Latino.

History

Settlers from Newark began moving west into the area in 1699; Livingston was incorporated in 1813, named for Governor William Livingston. It transitioned from farmland to residential community beginning in the 1950s.

Many suburban neighborhoods and schools were constructed in that decade to accommodate the population boom.

Quality of Life

Families flock to Livingston for its excellent quality of life.

The stellar school system, myriad of parks, and thriving civic organizations foster strong community ties. Events like the weekly Farmers Market and annual Fourth of July parade bring residents together.

Outdoorsy types enjoy the town’s hiking trails, community pool, and golf courses. Newcomers appreciate Livingston’s neighborly vibe where people know each other by name.

Healthcare

Livingston residents enjoy access to top-notch healthcare services within the township and in surrounding areas.

Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (formerly Saint Barnabas), a large regional hospital in Livingston, provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care including an emergency department and specialized treatments.

In addition, many smaller clinics and individual doctors’ offices are conveniently located within the township’s borders. These provide routine primary care, pediatric services, and more.

Livingston’s health department supplements clinical care through services like free blood pressure screenings, flu shot clinics, home health visits, and health education programs.

Safety

Livingston’s extremely low crime rate enhances residents’ sense of security. Violent crime is practically non-existent in town. Property crime rates sit well below state and national averages.

Proactive policing strategies like foot patrols, community outreach, and youth programs help deter crimes before they occur. Neighborhood watch groups empower residents to look out for one another.

The police department embraces transparency through social media engagement and events like “Coffee with a Cop.” Surveillance cameras provide additional monitoring.

Overall, Livingston’s safe streets allow families to feel protected as they go about their daily lives.

Transportation

Livingston enjoys excellent transportation connectivity via major highways and public transit.

Route 10 and Interstate 280 run through town; the nearest NJ Transit Morristown Line stations are in Short Hills, Millburn and South Orange, with a township shuttle to South Orange station.

NJ Transit buses serve local routes within Livingston.

Walkability and bikeability within town are excellent thanks to Livingston’s mix of sidewalks, trails, and low-traffic side streets.

Shopping and Dining

The many shopping and dining options in Livingston run the gamut from national chains to local hidden gems.

For everyday needs, supermarkets like Stop & Shop and specialty stores like Trader Joe’s fit the bill.

There’s cuisine from all over the world, and new hot spots continue opening up all the time.

Education

The Livingston Public School District provides K-12 education. Students matriculate through neighborhood elementary schools, middle schools, and Livingston High School.

The district offers programs for special education, gifted students, and English language learners.

Private schools include Newark Academy, in Livingston since 1964.

Points of Interest

• Riker Hill Art Park – A studio complex for more than 40 artists, part of the Essex County Riker Hill Complex.
• Turtle Back Zoo – Families delight in getting up close with giraffes, seals, lemurs, and more at this zoo in neighboring West Orange, run by Essex County.
• Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center – The regional hospital, formerly Saint Barnabas, offers specialized care.

By providing the best of community and convenience, Livingston continues to shine as an ideal suburban environment.