Lakewood NJ

Lakewood, NJ – A vibrant town with small-city charm and big community spirit, Lakewood blends historic character with rapid growth. Known for its diverse population, beautiful parks, and strong cultural and educational presence, this dynamic New Jersey township offers a unique mix of tradition and modern living. Whether strolling through its scenic trails or diving into its rich local heritage, Lakewood welcomes all with open arms.

• Population: ~135,000
• Weather: Seasonal with warm summers (70–85°F) and cold winters (30–45°F), occasional snow in winter months.
• Places To Visit: Lake Carasaljo, FirstEnergy Park, Pine Park, Strand Theater, Ocean County Park.
• Top Activities: Walking or biking in the parks, catching a baseball game, attending local festivals, enjoying outdoor concerts, shopping at local boutiques.
• Famous Food: Classic New York-style bagels, kosher delis, fresh-baked challah, and an array of kosher pizzas and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Lakewood, NJ is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state and is known for its strong sense of community and vibrant economy. With a large residential population, growing business sector, and a thriving education hub, the city presents a variety of in-demand career opportunities.

Top 5 Jobs in Lakewood, NJ

Lakewood, NJ offers a variety of delightful places where students can unwind, socialize, and enjoy their free time. Whether you're into nature escapes, grabbing a bite, or exploring local culture, Lakewood has you covered.

Lake Carasaljo – A serene spot perfect for a walk or picnic with friends. The beautiful lake provides a scenic backdrop for relaxation and nature appreciation.

FirstEnergy Park – Catch a baseball game featuring the Lakewood BlueClaws, enjoy some ballpark snacks, and soak in the fun atmosphere of this local favorite.

Monmouth Heritage Trail – Ideal for those who love biking or a leisurely stroll through nature, this trail lets you escape the daily grind and enjoy the great outdoors.

BlueClaws Stadium Sky Box – This is a unique way to enjoy a game with friends. It offers a fantastic view of the field and a comfortable place to relax.

Keean University Ocean County College Partnership – This collaboration offers a variety of cultural events and guest lectures that students can attend and later discuss over coffee at a nearby café.

Brick Reservoir – Another great spot for walking or running. It's a peaceful environment where you can clear your mind and take in the lovely scenery.

Downtown Lakewood – Explore local shops, grab some ice cream, or try out the diverse dining options available, all within walking distance for a convenient yet delightful experience.

Lakewood, New Jersey is a vibrant and growing community known for its educational and cultural diversity. While the city itself is smaller than major urban areas, students can access several respected institutions nearby, both public and private, offering a wide range of academic and career-focused programs.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in and near Lakewood

Ocean County College (OCC) – Located right in Toms River, just minutes from Lakewood, OCC is a well-regarded public community college. It offers associate degrees and certificate programs in fields like business, nursing, computer science, and liberal arts. OCC is known for its affordability and strong transfer programs.

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) – Though located in Newark, NJIT is relatively accessible from Lakewood and is one of the state's top public universities. It specializes in engineering, computer science, and architecture, and is known for innovation and research.

Rutgers University – New Brunswick – As New Jersey's largest public university, Rutgers offers world-class academic programs in almost every field. It's about an hour's drive from Lakewood and is ideal for students looking for a research-intensive environment in sciences, medicine, business, and the arts.

Rowan University – Located in Glassboro, about an hour away, Rowan is known for its engineering, education, business, and medical programs. It has grown rapidly in the past decade and offers a blend of research and practical learning.

Brookdale Community College – Serving Monmouth County, Brookdale is another accessible community college offering a wide variety of academic and vocational programs. Its proximity and affordability make it a solid choice for residents of the Lakewood area.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in and near Lakewood

Georgian Court University – Located directly in Lakewood, Georgian Court is a private Catholic university known for its strong programs in education, psychology, nursing, and business. The serene campus and supportive environment make it ideal for students seeking a more personal college experience.

Yeshiva Toras Chaim Rabbinical College – This private institution caters primarily to students pursuing advanced study of Jewish law and theology. It’s one of Lakewood’s most prominent religious schools and part of the city’s rich cultural fabric.

Bais Medrash Toras Chesed – Another respected private college in Lakewood, this school focuses on Talmudic studies and religious education. It is known for its scholarly environment and commitment to traditional Jewish learning.

Bais Medrash of Dexter Park – A smaller but well-regarded institution offering advanced religious studies. It draws students interested in in-depth Torah learning and community leadership.

Princeton University – About an hour from Lakewood, Princeton is one of the nation’s Ivy League schools, offering elite programs in the humanities, sciences, engineering, and public policy. Though not directly in the city, its influence and prestige are felt throughout the region.

Lakewood, NJ features several high-quality high schools that provide strong academic programs, a supportive environment, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Both public and private institutions in this area emphasize student achievement and college readiness, helping to equip students for their futures.

Top Public High Schools In Lakewood, NJ

• Lakewood High School – The main public high school in the district, offering a variety of academic and career programs, athletics, and clubs to support community-focused education.
• Brick Memorial High School (nearby Brick Township) – Though slightly outside Lakewood, it's attended by some local students and is known for its solid academic and athletic programs.
• Toms River High School North – Also located near Lakewood, this large public school offers honors and AP courses, plus strong arts and sports departments.
• Jackson Memorial High School – A short drive from Lakewood, this school offers a range of STEM-focused opportunities, AP classes, and engaging student organizations.
• Ocean County Vocational Technical School (Ocvts) – Offers career and technical education programs to high school students across the area, including Lakewood residents, focusing on hands-on learning and workforce readiness.

Top Private High Schools In Lakewood, NJ

• Bais Yaakov of Lakewood – A respected all-girls Orthodox Jewish high school, offering a strong dual curriculum of religious and general studies in a nurturing environment.
• Bais Tova High School – Focuses on personal growth through religious education and academic excellence, and is known for high levels of student achievement and engagement.
• Mesivta of Lakewood – A boys’ yeshiva high school offering a focused Torah education along with core general studies preparing students for continued religious and academic success.
• Yeshiva Ketana of Lakewood – A school that emphasizes spiritual growth alongside academics in a highly disciplined and supportive environment for boys.
• Calvary Academy – A Christian private school that integrates faith-based learning with comprehensive academics, offering small classes and a strong community spirit for high school students.

Lakewood, New Jersey is a vibrant community located in Ocean County, but it does not currently host any professional sports teams in the major national leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or MLS. However, the region has a strong connection to sports through minor league teams and offers a rich sports culture that thrives on community support and regional pride.

⚾ Baseball – Jersey Shore BlueClaws (MiLB)

• Jersey Shore BlueClaws – Based in nearby Lakewood, the BlueClaws are a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Philadelphia Phillies. They play in the South Atlantic League and have been a key part of the community since their debut in 2001. The team has developed several MLB stars over the years, including Ryan Howard and Cole Hamels.

🏀 Nearby NBA Teams Within Reach

• Though Lakewood does not have its own NBA team, residents often cheer for the Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks, both located within easy driving distance. These teams offer exciting professional basketball action just a short trip north.

🏈 Football – NFL Teams in the Region

• Lakewood football fans typically support the New York Giants and New York Jets, who both play at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. These teams have a strong fan base throughout the state and offer seasonal NFL excitement.

🏒 Hockey – NHL Access Nearby

• NHL fans in Lakewood can catch games just north in Newark, home of the New Jersey Devils. The Devils have won three Stanley Cup championships (1995, 2000, 2003) and are an integral part of the state’s professional sports scene.

⚽ Soccer – MLS Teams Representing the Region

• For soccer enthusiasts, Lakewood residents often support New York Red Bulls, a team based in Harrison, NJ. The Red Bulls compete in Major League Soccer (MLS) and play at Red Bull Arena, offering high-energy matches and a deep fan culture.

While Lakewood, NJ does not host major league professional teams of its own, the town is surrounded by numerous sports franchises in nearby cities. From minor league baseball at home to major league action just a car ride away, fans in Lakewood enjoy great access to athletic entertainment year-round.

Lakewood, New Jersey is a vibrant and quickly growing township filled with culture, history, and surprises around every corner. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, here are some fun and little-known facts about this unique town:

1. A Hub of Education – Lakewood is home to Beth Medrash Govoha, one of the largest yeshivas (Jewish colleges) in the world.
2. It Was Once a Resort Town – In the early 1900s, Lakewood was a popular vacation spot for the rich and famous, including John D. Rockefeller and President Grover Cleveland.
3. BlueClaws Baseball Fun – Lakewood is home to the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, a Minor League Baseball team with a loyal fan base and family-friendly stadium.
4. An Eco-Friendly Gem – Lake Carasaljo is not just scenic; it’s also part of the town’s efforts to preserve green spaces and support outdoor activities.
5. It’s Growing Fast – Lakewood is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in New Jersey, with a booming population and expanding developments.
6. Historic Oak Trees – The area around Lake Carasaljo features majestic oak trees that are believed to be over 200 years old.
7. A Melting Pot – While known for its large Orthodox Jewish community, Lakewood is becoming more diverse with cultures and languages from all over the world.
8. Hosts Big Events – From carnivals and parades to public concerts and religious festivals, Lakewood boasts a calendar full of lively events year-round.
9. Close to the Shore – Lakewood is just a short drive away from the Jersey Shore’s famous beaches, making summer trips super convenient.
10. Creative Touch – Lakewood is home to local artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs who have helped build a growing arts and small business scene.