Area Guide / Northern New Jersey / Essex / West Orange

West Orange is a Township in Essex County with a population of nearly 45,000 residents. With a vibrant downtown, many parks, tree lined streets, excellent schools and access to New York City, West Orange is an ideal place to call home.

Thomas Edison purchased property in West Orange in 1886 as a wedding gift for his wife, and Thomas and Minia Edison are now buried here. Thomas Edison did much of his research in West Orange, and a museum stands on the grounds today. The first motion picture studio, The Black Maria, was located on the grounds of Edison’s factory in West Orange.

Today, West Orange is a vibrant suburb of New York City. Many restaurants, upscale retail establishments, coffee shops and eateries are located here. Public transportation is excellent as well. New Jersey Transit has a train station along with many bus stops within the Township.

West Orange has had many influential residents. Thomas Edison invented the Phonograph, the electric light and the motion picture here. Carole King spent most of her songwriting days here on Pleasant Valley Way. Beloved New Jersey Governor, Brendan Byrne hails from West Orange as well.

West Orange Schools are among the best in the area. There are also many private schools in the area, serving students of all ages. 

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