So, you’re trying to figure out exactly where Rahway sits on the map. Maybe you’re looking at a commute, considering a move, or you just have a weirdly specific trivia question to answer. Honestly, New Jersey geography can be a total headache because everything is so tightly packed together. But here is the short answer: Rahway is in Union County.
It’s not just a random town in the middle of nowhere, either. Rahway is one of the anchors of southern Union County, sitting right on the edge of the border with Middlesex County. If you drive just a few blocks too far south, you’re suddenly in Woodbridge. That proximity is exactly why people get confused.
What County Is Rahway In? Why It Matters for Your Zip Code
Understanding that what county is Rahway in is Union County matters more than just for filling out a form. In New Jersey, your county dictates everything from which sheriff’s department patrols your area to where your property taxes actually go.
Rahway is a city that has spent the last decade basically reinventing itself. It used to be known primarily for its heavy industrial roots—think carriage manufacturing and eventually the massive Merck & Co. footprint. But today? It’s arguably the "cool" part of Union County.
The Border Confusion
Look at a map and you’ll see why people trip up. Rahway is bordered by:
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- Clark (Union County)
- Linden (Union County)
- Woodbridge (Middlesex County)
Because it shares that southern border with Woodbridge, many folks mistakenly think Rahway is part of Middlesex. It isn't. If you’re paying Rahway taxes, you’re contributing to Union County’s budget, which includes things like the massive Rahway River Park.
The "Spanktown" Mystery and Rahway’s Weird History
You can't talk about Rahway without mentioning its original name: Spanktown. I’m not even kidding. Back in the 1700s, the area was known as Spanktown, likely because of the "spanking" sound made by local leather workers who beat hides to soften them.
The Battle of Spanktown in 1777 was a real, gritty Revolutionary War skirmish where the locals basically told the British to get lost. It’s part of that deep Union County pride. When you walk down St. Georges Avenue today, you’re literally walking on a Revolutionary War battlefield.
Is Rahway Actually a "Transit Village"?
Basically, yes. The city was one of the first in New Jersey to get the official "Transit Village" designation. This is a big deal for Union County. The Rahway train station is a massive hub where the Northeast Corridor and the North Jersey Coast Line meet.
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If you live here, you’ve got a direct shot to New York Penn Station in about 35 to 40 minutes. That’s faster than some people’s subway rides from Brooklyn. Because of this, the downtown area has exploded with luxury apartments and trendy spots like The Gilded Lily or various craft breweries.
Living in Union County: The Rahway Reality
If you're looking at Rahway from a real estate perspective in 2026, you've probably noticed prices are jumping. Union County as a whole has become a magnet for people priced out of Jersey City and Hoboken.
What county is Rahway in? It’s in the county that offers a bit more space without losing the urban vibe.
- The Arts Scene: The Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) is the crown jewel here. It’s an old restored vaudeville theater that brings in actual touring acts, not just local high school plays.
- Parks and Rec: Rahway River Park is huge. It has a pool, a massive track, and enough geese to start a small army. It’s maintained by the county, not the city, which is why it stays so clean.
- The Merck Factor: Merck & Co. has a huge presence here. While they moved their global HQ around a bit over the years, their Rahway campus remains a massive employer and a staple of the local economy.
Demographics and Vibe
Rahway is incredibly diverse. Honestly, it’s one of the most integrated-feeling towns in the area. You’ve got a mix of young professionals commuting to the city, families who have been here for four generations, and a growing community of artists who moved into the lofts downtown.
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According to recent data, the population is hovering around 30,000. It’s small enough that you’ll run into people you know at the Cherry Street festival, but big enough that you don't feel like everyone is in your business.
Common Misconceptions About Rahway
We need to clear some things up. First, the "Rahway State Prison" isn't actually in Rahway. It’s officially called East Jersey State Prison, and it is located in Woodbridge (Middlesex County). However, because it has a Rahway mailing address, the poor city gets the reputation.
Second, the river. The Rahway River is beautiful, but it can be a "mood." If you’re buying a house near the water, check those flood maps. The city has done a lot of work on mitigation since the 1990s, but mother nature doesn't always care about your basement.
Actionable Insights for New Residents
If you’re moving to Rahway or just visiting Union County, here is what you actually need to do:
- Check the Train Schedule: Remember that Rahway is a "split" station. Make sure your train is actually stopping there and not bypassing it on the express track to Metropark.
- Park Strategically: The parking decks downtown are your friend. Street parking is a nightmare on show nights at the UCPAC.
- Explore the River Park: Don't just stay in the downtown bubble. The county park system is one of the best perks of living in Union County.
- Support Local: Spots like Melao’s or the various BBQ joints on Main Street are what keep the city’s soul alive.
At the end of the day, knowing what county is Rahway in is the first step to understanding one of the most dynamic cities in Northern New Jersey. It’s Union County through and through—gritty, artistic, and perfectly positioned for anyone who wants a "real" place to live within striking distance of Manhattan.
If you are planning a visit, start at the train station plaza. It's the heart of the city and gives you the best sense of why people are flocking to this corner of Union County. Grab a coffee, watch the trains roll by, and you'll see why Rahway is finally getting the respect it deserves.