What NJ Cities Have the Largest Black or African American Populations?
New Jersey is home to some of the most historically significant and culturally rich Black communities in the country. From cities that played a role in the Underground Railroad to modern urban centers with growing real estate markets and cultural institutions, these areas have been crucial in shaping the state’s Black identity. But which NJ Cities have the largest black populations?
Below, we explore fifteen of New Jersey’s Black-majority cities, highlighting their history, cultural impact, and why they are worth visiting or investing in.
Top 15 Cities with Largest Black or African American Populations in NJ:
- East Orange
- Lawnside
- Salem
- Roselle
- Newark
- Trenton
- Camden
- Chesilhurst
- Penns Grove
- Paulsboro
- Burlington
- Plainfield
- Pleasantville
- Atlantic City
- Asbury Park
Cities with the Largest Black or African American Population in NJ
East Orange
East Orange has long been one of New Jersey’s most prominent Black-majority cities, with 78.6% of its population identifying as Black or African American. Known for its deep musical roots, East Orange has been home to iconic artists like Whitney Houston, Dionne Warwick, and Queen Latifah, all of whom have had a lasting impact on R&B, gospel, and hip-hop music.
Beyond its musical legacy, East Orange has a strong real estate market, with new residential developments and revitalization efforts bringing fresh investment to the city. The Main Street district and Brick Church Plaza serve as central hubs for commerce, featuring a mix of national retailers and locally owned businesses.
Culturally, East Orange hosts annual music festivals, art exhibitions, and community events that celebrate its Black heritage. One of the most notable events is the East Orange Summer Jam Series, where residents enjoy live performances from local and national R&B and hip-hop artists. The city is also home to Cicely Tyson School of Performing and Fine Arts, named after the legendary actress, where young artists train in dance, music, and theater.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Birthplace of Music Legends Like Whitney Houston & Queen Latifah
- Home to Cicely Tyson School of Performing and Fine Arts
- East Orange Summer Jam Series – A Celebration of Black Music & Culture
- Growing Real Estate Market with New Developments
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Lawnside
Lawnside is one of the most historically significant Black communities in New Jersey, where 75.0% of residents identify as Black. Established in 1840 as a haven for freed African Americans, Lawnside was one of the first independent Black municipalities in the northern U.S. and played a critical role in the Underground Railroad.
One of the most important historical landmarks in Lawnside is the Peter Mott House, a station on the Underground Railroad that helped escaped slaves find their way to freedom. Today, it serves as a museum where visitors can learn about New Jersey’s role in the fight against slavery.
Lawnside continues to embrace its rich history while investing in community development. The town features a strong network of Black-owned businesses, family-run restaurants, and cultural organizations that keep its legacy alive. Every year, Lawnside hosts Black heritage festivals, historical reenactments, and educational programs to celebrate its unique identity.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- One of the First Black-Founded Towns in America
- The Peter Mott House – Underground Railroad Museum
- Annual Lawnside Heritage Festival Celebrating Black History
- Strong Community Engagement in Historic Preservation & Education
Salem
Salem, a South Jersey city with a Black population of 58.5%, has a deep historical connection to the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad. The city was home to several safe houses that helped enslaved people escape to freedom, and some of these historical sites still stand today, offering guided tours and educational programs.
One of the most notable landmarks is the Old Courthouse, built in 1735, which is one of the oldest active courthouses in the United States. While it is not directly tied to Black history, it has been the site of important legal battles concerning civil rights and racial justice throughout Salem’s history.
In modern times, Salem has been working on revitalization projects to improve its economy, focusing on affordable housing, small business development, and community-driven initiatives. The city also hosts Salem Heritage Days, a festival that includes historical tours, live performances, and celebrations of Black culture.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Rich History in the Abolitionist Movement & Underground Railroad
- The Old Courthouse – A Site for Civil Rights & Legal History
- Salem Heritage Days – Celebrating Local Black Culture & History
- Community-Led Revitalization Efforts & Business Development
Roselle
Roselle is a diverse suburban community where 47.6% of the population identifies as Black. Known for its strong school system, community engagement, and Black-owned businesses, Roselle has become a desirable place for families looking for suburban comfort with urban access.
One of Roselle’s key historical moments was its role in the early days of electricity—it became the first town in the world to be lit by Thomas Edison’s electric street lights in 1883. Today, the borough hosts annual cultural festivals and business networking events that highlight entrepreneurship, music, and Black excellence.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- First Town in the World to Use Electric Street Lighting
- Growing Black-Owned Business Community
- Family-Friendly Neighborhoods & Strong Education System
- Cultural Festivals & Community Engagement
Learn more about selling a home in Roselle.
Newark
Newark, New Jersey’s largest city, is a hub for Black culture, activism, and economic development, with 47.5% of its population identifying as Black. It has a rich history of civil rights activism, including the Newark Rebellion of 1967, which played a crucial role in the city’s push for social justice and equality.
Today, Newark is home to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), the Newark Museum of Art, and the Lincoln Park Music Festival, celebrating Black music, history, and culture. The city also has a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, with numerous Black-owned businesses, investment opportunities, and real estate developments transforming the downtown area.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Major Center for Black Arts, Music, & Civil Rights Movements
- Home to NJPAC, AfroBeat Fest, & Lincoln Park Music Festival
- Strong Business & Real Estate Growth
- Deep History in the Civil Rights Movement
Learn more about how we buy houses in Newark.
Trenton
As the capital of New Jersey, Trenton has a rich Black cultural presence, with 42.2% of its population identifying as Black. Historically, Trenton played a role in the Great Migration, as African Americans from the South moved north for industrial jobs and economic opportunity.
Today, Trenton is undergoing urban renewal, with historic preservation projects, new housing developments, and Black business investment initiatives revitalizing the city. The Old Barracks Museum offers insight into the role of Black soldiers during the Revolutionary War, and the city continues to host Black heritage festivals and community markets.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Deep History in the Great Migration & Industrial Boom
- Old Barracks Museum – Honoring Black Soldiers in the Revolution
- Urban Redevelopment & Business Growth
- Cultural Festivals Celebrating Black Heritage
Learn more about Trenton real estate here.
Camden
Camden has a deeply rooted Black community, making up 38.7% of its population. It is famous for its connection to jazz and gospel music, with notable artists like Nina Simone and Duke Ellington performing in its historic venues.
In recent years, Camden has undergone significant redevelopment, with new housing, business investments, and entertainment venues revitalizing the city. The Adventure Aquarium, Battleship New Jersey, and Camden Waterfront attract visitors, while local jazz clubs and arts centers continue to celebrate Black culture.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Historic Ties to Jazz & Gospel Music
- Camden Waterfront & Business District Revitalization
- Local Jazz Clubs & Black Arts Spaces
- Economic Investment in Housing & Small Businesses
Chesilhurst
Chesilhurst is a small borough with a significant Black community, where 38.6% of its residents identify as Black. It was originally settled by freed African Americans who built self-sustaining communities in South Jersey.
Despite its size, Chesilhurst has a rich tradition of community activism, family-run businesses, and Black churches that have long been the center of social life. The town continues to be a peaceful residential area with strong community involvement and cultural events.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Historic Black Community with Deep Family Roots
- Strong Community Engagement & Black Churches
- Affordable Suburban Housing with Proximity to Philadelphia
Penns Grove
Located along the Delaware River, Penns Grove has a strong Black presence, with 38.5% of the population identifying as Black. The town has a history tied to industrial jobs, with many Black families moving here during the early 20th century for work in manufacturing and shipbuilding.
Today, Penns Grove is seeing new economic investment, with initiatives supporting Black entrepreneurs and small businesses. The town also celebrates its culture through heritage festivals, local events, and historic preservation efforts.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Strong Industrial History with Black Workers & Entrepreneurs
- Community Revitalization & Economic Growth
- Cultural Festivals & Black Heritage Celebrations
Paulsboro
Paulsboro has long been known as a blue-collar town with a strong Black working-class presence, where 35.7% of the population identifies as Black. Historically, many Black families moved to Paulsboro to work in shipbuilding, oil refineries, and manufacturing, forming a tight-knit community that still thrives today.
The Paulsboro Refinery, one of the oldest operating oil refineries in the U.S., has played a major role in shaping the town’s workforce. Many Black families have worked in industrial and maritime trades, passing down generational knowledge and business connections in these fields.
Recently, Paulsboro has been focusing on community-led revitalization efforts, with new programs supporting affordable housing, small businesses, and education initiatives. The town also celebrates Black culture through local heritage festivals, Juneteenth events, and youth mentorship programs.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Historic Black Working-Class Community in Shipbuilding & Industry
- Paulsboro Refinery – A Legacy of Black Labor & Trade
- Community-Led Revitalization & Business Growth
- Annual Juneteenth Events & Black Heritage Celebrations
Burlington
Burlington is one of New Jersey’s oldest cities, and its Black community, making up 35.0% of the population, has played a significant role in its development. During the abolitionist movement, Burlington was a critical stop along the Underground Railroad, and today, many of its historical landmarks and museums still tell the stories of formerly enslaved people who found refuge here.
One of the most notable sites in Burlington is the Burlington Quaker Meeting House, which was known for its active role in abolitionism. Visitors can also explore the Underground Railroad Museum, which highlights the city’s contributions to Black history.
Beyond its historical significance, Burlington is investing in revitalization projects aimed at attracting new homeowners and business owners. Its waterfront location along the Delaware River makes it a scenic and attractive place to live, with Black-owned businesses and cultural festivals continuing to shape the downtown district.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Underground Railroad Landmarks & Black History Museums
- Burlington Quaker Meeting House – Center of Abolitionist Activity
- Growing Black-Owned Business Community
- Scenic Delaware River Waterfront & Real Estate Development
Plainfield
Plainfield has been a major center for Black culture, business, and music in New Jersey, with 34.9% of its population identifying as Black. Known as “The Queen City,” Plainfield became a hub for jazz, R&B, and soul music during the 20th century, attracting top Black artists and musicians to its thriving club scene.
One of the city’s most famous music contributions comes from George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic, who formed their legendary band in Plainfield. The city continues to celebrate its musical heritage through concerts, cultural events, and arts programs.
Plainfield’s real estate market has been expanding, with affordable housing and new development projects making it an attractive place for families and professionals. The downtown district is also home to a growing number of Black-owned businesses, particularly in fashion, food, and professional services.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Home of George Clinton & Parliament-Funkadelic
- Strong Black Business & Cultural Arts Scene
- Growing Real Estate Market & Economic Development
- Annual Music & Cultural Festivals Honoring Black Heritage
Learn more about selling quickly in Plainfield.
Pleasantville
Pleasantville is a South Jersey city with a strong and growing Black community, where 34.8% of residents identify as Black. It has become known for its entrepreneurial spirit, with many Black-owned businesses, beauty salons, and restaurants contributing to its economy.
Pleasantville also has a rich history in education, being home to one of New Jersey’s first Black public schools, which played a major role in increasing access to education for African American students in the early 20th century. Today, the city continues to emphasize youth programs, mentorship, and college readiness initiatives.
The city hosts cultural festivals and business networking expos to support Black entrepreneurs and professionals, making it a strong example of economic empowerment in South Jersey.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Historic Black Education Centers & Schools
- Strong Black-Owned Business & Entrepreneurial Community
- Youth Development & College Readiness Programs
- Annual Black Cultural Festivals & Business Networking Events
Atlantic City
Atlantic City has long been a center of Black entrepreneurship and entertainment, with 34.0% of its population identifying as Black. The city has been home to legendary Black performers like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Sarah Vaughan, who played in its famous clubs during the early 20th century.
The city is currently focused on revitalizing its Black business districts and increasing investment in affordable housing and tourism infrastructure. Events like the Atlantic City Jazz Festival continue to honor the city’s deep ties to Black music and culture.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Historic Black Music & Entertainment Scene
- Home to the Atlantic City Jazz Festival
- Real Estate & Business Revitalization Projects
Asbury Park
Asbury Park is known for its iconic boardwalk and music scene, with 33.3% of its population identifying as Black. Historically, the city was home to a thriving Black jazz and R&B community, with Black-owned clubs playing an essential role in shaping the local music industry.
Today, Asbury Park is undergoing significant redevelopment, with a focus on affordable housing, arts initiatives, and cultural preservation. Visitors can explore Black history museums, soul food restaurants, and live music venues, making it one of the most exciting cultural destinations in the state.
Key Cultural Highlights:
- Historic Black Music & Jazz Scene
- Ongoing Redevelopment & Business Growth
- Cultural Festivals & Black-Owned Restaurants
We are interested in buying homes in Asbury Park, too.
Conclusion: What NJ Cities Have the Largest Black or African American populations
New Jersey’s Black-majority cities and towns are rich with history, culture, and economic vitality, each contributing uniquely to the state’s social fabric and progress. From East Orange’s legendary music scene and Newark’s role in civil rights activism to Lawnside’s deep ties to the Underground Railroad, these communities have been at the forefront of Black excellence, resilience, and leadership for generations. Their histories are woven with stories of struggle, triumph, and innovation, shaping not just New Jersey but the broader national landscape.
Today, these cities continue to evolve and thrive, with revitalized business districts, expanding real estate markets, and cultural institutions celebrating their heritage. Cities like Trenton and Camden are focusing on economic redevelopment, while towns such as Pleasantville and Roselle are building strong networks of Black entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, historically significant places like Salem, Burlington, and Chesilhurst remain committed to preserving their past while fostering new opportunities for their residents.
Whether through music, industry, activism, or business development, these communities stand as pillars of culture, economic progress, and social change. Their continued investment in education, small businesses, and community-driven initiatives ensures that they remain strongholds of Black heritage and growth. As these cities move forward, they carry with them a legacy of strength and innovation, making them not only essential to New Jersey’s history but also to its future.