Montgomery Township, New Jersey
Located in the southern portion of Somerset County within the New York Metropolitan Area, Montgomery Township is a vibrant community in central New Jersey. Named after Colonel Richard Montgomery, the township blends a rich historical foundation with steady modern growth, serving as a residential and educational hub for the region.
Incorporated on February 21, 1798, as one of the state's original 104 townships, Montgomery was formed from the Western precinct. Over the centuries, its borders shifted as portions were used to establish Princeton Borough, Princeton Township, and Rocky Hill.
Key Facts
- Incorporation Date: February 21, 1798
- Total Area: 32.48 square miles
- 2020 Population: 23,690
- County Rank: 3rd largest municipality in Somerset County by area
- Primary Communities: Belle Mead, Blawenburg, Harlingen, and Skillman
- Government Type: Township Committee
Geography and Local Communities
Montgomery Township spans approximately 32.48 square miles, the vast majority of which is land (32.30 square miles), with water accounting for only 0.54% of the total area. The township is characterized by several unincorporated communities and census-designated places (CDPs), which provide distinct local identities within the larger municipal structure.
These include Belle Mead, the most populous of the CDPs, as well as Blawenburg, Harlingen, and Skillman.
Demographics and Population Growth
The township has experienced significant population growth over the last few decades. From a population of 17,481 in 2000, the community grew by 27.3% to 22,254 by 2010. The 2020 Census recorded 23,690 residents, with 2023 estimates placing the population at 23,719.
| Year | Population | Growth Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 9,612 | 30.6% |
| 2000 | 17,481 | 81.9% |
| 2010 | 22,254 | 27.3% |
| 2020 | 23,690 | 6.5% |
| 2023 (est.) | 23,719 | 0.1% |
Government and Politics
Montgomery is governed by a Township Committee. As of the current term, the Mayor is Neena Singh (term ending December 31, 2025), supported by Administrator Lori Savron and Municipal Clerk Lisa Fania.
Politically, the township has a diverse registration base. As of March 2011, nearly half of the registered voters (49.6%) were Unaffiliated, while Democrats and Republicans made up 27.3% and 23.1% of the electorate, respectively. The community maintains a high level of civic engagement, with 92.6% of eligible voters aged 18 and over registered to vote.
Education
The Montgomery Township School District was once among the fastest-growing in New Jersey. K–12 enrollment surged from 1,590 students in September 1992 to 4,924 by September 2005. While residential development has since slowed, leading to flat enrollment, the district remains highly regarded.
Montgomery Township High School has consistently ranked among the top public schools in the state. In a September 2014 report by New Jersey Monthly, it was ranked 33rd out of 339 public high schools statewide.
Infrastructure and Transportation
The township's transportation network consists of 168.21 miles of roadways. The majority of these (138.40 miles) are maintained by the municipality, while the remainder are managed by Somerset County and the New Jersey Department of Transportation.
Key transit arteries include U.S. Route 206 and County Route 533, which facilitate movement through the central New Jersey corridor. The area is also served by the Princeton Airport.
Notable Residents
Montgomery Township has been home to a variety of distinguished individuals across sports, science, and public service:
- Wade Baldwin IV: NBA player for the Memphis Grizzlies.
Wade Baldwin IV - Yvonne Brill: Renowned rocket scientist.
- Ben Bernanke: Former Federal Reserve Chair and former Montgomery school board member.
Ben Bernanke - Tom Verducci: Prominent sportswriter for Sports Illustrated.
- John Milhiser: Actor and former Saturday Night Live cast member.
- Brandon Grosso: ARCA Menards Series race car driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current mayor of Montgomery Township?
The current Mayor is Neena Singh, whose term is scheduled to end on December 31, 2025.
What are the main communities within the township?
The township includes several unincorporated communities and census-designated places, specifically Belle Mead, Blawenburg, Harlingen, and Skillman.
How does the local high school rank in New Jersey?
Montgomery Township High School was ranked 33rd out of 339 public high schools in New Jersey by New Jersey Monthly in September 2014.
What is the total land area of Montgomery Township?
The township has a total area of 32.48 square miles, with 32.30 square miles consisting of land.
When was Montgomery Township incorporated?
Montgomery Township was incorporated on February 21, 1798, as part of New Jersey's initial group of 104 townships.