Nestled within Morris County, New Jersey, Rockaway Borough and Rockaway Township are neighboring communities that, while sharing part of their name, offer unique characteristics, lifestyles, and amenities. Whether you’re considering moving to one of these areas or simply interested in learning more about this region of New Jersey, understanding their distinctions can provide helpful insights into what each has to offer.
In this post, we’ll dive into the history, demographics, amenities, housing, schools, lifestyle, and transportation options of Rockaway Borough and Rockaway Township, highlighting their unique features and what makes each a desirable place to live.
1. Historical Background
- Rockaway Borough: Founded in 1894, Rockaway Borough developed initially around iron forges, thanks to its natural resources. Over time, it evolved into a tightly-knit residential community, maintaining a small-town feel and historic charm.
- Rockaway Township: With a broader area and history dating back to 1740, Rockaway Township is one of Morris County’s largest municipalities. Initially, it served as an industrial and mining hub, transforming over the years into a suburban residential and commercial center.
Rockaway Borough’s small-town atmosphere reflects its roots as a more compact community with close historical ties, while Rockaway Township’s larger area supports diverse neighborhoods and industrial remnants reflecting its extensive historical past.
2. Geographic Size and Population
- Rockaway Borough: Covering only about 2 square miles, Rockaway Borough has a population of around 6,500 residents. Its small size contributes to a tight-knit community atmosphere, with local businesses and amenities concentrated in a relatively walkable area.
- Rockaway Township: In contrast, Rockaway Township spans over 45 square miles with a population exceeding 25,000. This larger area is divided into numerous neighborhoods, each offering different residential styles, recreational areas, and amenities, with some parts maintaining a more rural feel.
3. Housing and Real Estate
- Rockaway Borough: Housing options in the Borough range from historic single and multi-family homes to modern townhomes and apartments. The real estate market here leans towards residential neighborhoods with homes built in classic architectural styles, providing a quaint, suburban feel with proximity to local schools and parks.
- Rockaway Township: Housing in the Township is more diverse, offering everything from larger newer construction single-family homes and estates to townhouses. Some neighborhoods in the Township provide expansive lot sizes and scenic views of lakes and parks, making it appealing for families looking for larger properties with access to outdoor spaces.
The housing style and density in Rockaway Borough generally support a more compact, traditional suburban atmosphere, while Rockaway Township’s larger, varied neighborhoods offer more options for residents with different needs.
4. Schools and Education
- Rockaway Borough: Rockaway Borough is served by the Rockaway Borough Public Schools, which includes Lincoln Elementary and Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Students then attend Morris Hills High School, part of the Morris Hills Regional District, which is known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs.
- Rockaway Township: The Township has its own school district, the Rockaway Township Public Schools, which operates a number of elementary and middle schools before students also attend Morris Hills High School. With more schools and a larger student body, the Township’s district can offer a wider range of programs and services.
Both areas provide quality education through public schools, though the Township’s larger system offers slightly more options and resources for students.
5. Parks and Recreation
- Rockaway Borough: While smaller in size, the Borough is home to various parks like Donatoni Park, which offers a playground, sports fields, and a community space for local events. The Borough also has other parks such as Parks Lake (which part of it is in the Township), Friendship Field, Centennial Park, Heady Field, and Smith Field. The Borough also hosts events throughout the year, like the Rockaway Borough Day and the Parks Lake Spooktacular Trunk or Treat, fostering a strong sense of community.
- Rockaway Township: The Township boasts extensive recreational facilities and parks, including Mount Hope Historical Park, Hedden Park, and White Meadow Lake, offering hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities. Additionally, the Township’s recreational department offers seasonal programs, sports leagues, and summer camps.
With its extensive park system and recreational programs, Rockaway Township provides a wider variety of outdoor activities, while Rockaway Borough’s parks are more localized but support strong community engagement.
6. Transportation and Commuting
- Rockaway Borough: The Borough’s small size makes it very walkable, with many local businesses and schools within a short distance. For commuters to New York City, the NJ Transit Dover Station is nearby, and major routes like Route 46 and I-80 make driving to New York City or other parts of New Jersey relatively convenient.
- Rockaway Township: In addition to access to major highways like Route 80, 15, and 46, the Township is close to multiple NJ Transit stations, including Dover and Denville, making commuting by train accessible. The Township’s size does mean that commuting within the area often requires a car, especially for residents living in more rural neighborhoods.
For those seeking walkable access to amenities, Rockaway Borough offers more convenience, whereas Rockaway Township provides more commuting options but generally requires a vehicle for local travel.
7. Local Economy and Employment
- Rockaway Borough: As a smaller, residential-focused area, Rockaway Borough’s economy primarily revolves around small businesses, local retail, and service-oriented establishments. The Rockaway Borough Downtown Business District features a variety of newly opened restaurants, boutiques, and community-focused businesses.
- Rockaway Township: Rockaway Township has a stronger commercial presence, home to the Rockaway Townsquare Mall, large retail stores, and numerous corporate offices. The Township's economic base supports a wider variety of job opportunities within the community, especially in retail and office-based professions.
With Rockaway Township’s broader economic infrastructure, residents benefit from more diverse employment options locally, while Rockaway Borough maintains a focus on community-centered businesses.
8. Community Events and Lifestyle
- Rockaway Borough: Known for its community-oriented events, the Borough hosts seasonal festivities like holiday parades, 4th of July fireworks and summer concerts at the Parks Lake Gazebo. These events foster a strong community bond and offer residents a variety of ways to engage with neighbors and local culture.
- Rockaway Township: The Township also hosts events and has an active recreational department that organizes seasonal activities and holiday celebrations. Due to its larger size, events in the Township are often more diverse, offering everything from large gatherings at Rockaway Townsquare to neighborhood-specific events.
Rockaway Borough’s events often feel more close-knit and community-driven, while Rockaway Township provides broader and more varied event options for residents across its neighborhoods.
9. Public Services and Safety
- Rockaway Borough: The Borough has a dedicated police department, fire department, and EMS, ensuring prompt and localized service for its residents. The small size of the community allows for a more personalized approach to public safety.
- Rockaway Township: The Township operates larger public service departments, with multiple fire stations and police patrols to cover its larger area. The Township also offers more extensive municipal services and programs for residents due to its size and population.
Both areas are known for their commitment to safety, but Rockaway Township’s services are more extensive due to its larger population and geographic area.
Conclusion
Choosing between Rockaway Borough and Rockaway Township comes down to personal preference and lifestyle needs. If you’re seeking a close-knit, small-town atmosphere with walkable amenities, Rockaway Borough may be the perfect fit. However, if you desire more housing options, recreational activities, and a broader selection of shopping and employment opportunities, Rockaway Township could offer exactly what you’re looking for.
