Kearny

Kearny is a township in Hudson County, New Jersey, United States. It is named for General Philip Kearny, a 19th-century U.S. Army officer who served in the Mexican-American War and the Civil War. The township is part of the New York metropolitan area and sits on the western bank of the Passaic River, across from the city of Newark.

Geography and population

Kearny is an urban-suburban community with a diverse population. It is bordered by the Passaic River to the east and is closely linked to the broader Bergen and Hudson County urban area. As of the 2020 census, the population was around 40,000, reflecting a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial zones, and industrial to logistics facilities along the riverfront.

History and economy

The area developed as an industrial center in the 19th and 20th centuries, leveraging river and rail connections to support shipyards, manufacturing, and freight facilities. In recent decades, portions along the Passaic have been redeveloped for logistics, offices, and light industry, with sites such as Kearny Point serving as modern industrial campuses.

Government and education

Kearny operates under a mayor-council form of government. The Kearny Public Schools district administers multiple elementary schools, one middle school, and Kearny High School. The township also contains private and parochial schools and religious institutions.

Transportation and amenities

The township is connected to the regional road network and is within commuting distance of Newark Liberty International Airport and New York City. Public transit options include bus services, with rail access available in neighboring municipalities.

Notable people and legacy

The community’s name honors Philip Kearny. The name Kearny is used by other places in the United States as well, including Kearny County, Kansas.