Paterson New Jersey Map

About Paterson, New Jersey

Paterson is a locality in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States. With a population of 158,735, Paterson is a major urban centre in New Jersey. The population density is 7235.4 people per km². Paterson is located at 40.9168°N, 74.1718°W. It observes the Eastern Time (America/New_York) timezone. ZIP code: 7522.

Paterson rises from the Passaic River's embrace, a place where the raw power of water has shaped both the land and the spirit of its people. It lies 2.6 miles south-west of Fair Lawn, NJ (from Fair Lawn, NJ: bearing 232°T), and is situated 9.7 miles north-north-east of Essex. The city's geography is defined by dramatic elevation changes, particularly around the Great Falls, a stunning cascade that plunges into a deep gorge, its mist a constant, cool presence in the air. Hills and valleys carve through the urban landscape, offering glimpses of distant horizons and a sense of expansive possibility even within the dense cityscape. The soil here, rich and deep, has long supported a life intertwined with the river's flow and the land's generous, if sometimes rugged, contours. The quality of light, especially as it filters through the industrial-era brickwork in the late afternoon, often casts a warm, golden hue, hinting at the enduring resilience of this vibrant community. The history of Paterson is inextricably linked to the force of the Great Falls, which, in the early days of the American Industrial Revolution, powered mills and factories, establishing the city as a manufacturing powerhouse. It was here that Samuel Colt perfected his revolver and the nation's first steam locomotive was built, testaments to a spirit of innovation and relentless industry. This legacy of production, though it has evolved over the generations, still resonates in the city's character, a blend of working-class grit and a deep-seated pride in its contributions to American progress. The economy, once dominated by textiles and machinery, has diversified, yet the echoes of those industrious pasts remain, a subtle hum beneath the surface of everyday life. Paterson's cultural heart beats with a vibrant rhythm, reflecting a rich tapestry of traditions and talents. While the city itself doesn't host major professional sports franchises, its residents passionately follow teams in nearby stadiums, a shared enthusiasm that bridges communities. The annual Paterson Arts & Music Festival celebrates the city's creative spirit, drawing crowds with diverse performances and exhibitions. The Great Falls National Historical Park stands as a monumental landmark, a place where history and natural beauty converge, inviting contemplation and awe. Renowned universities and colleges in the vicinity contribute to the intellectual life of the region, fostering a culture of learning and aspiration. Over the years, Paterson has been the birthplace and home of numerous individuals who have left their indelible mark on the world, from legendary musicians and groundbreaking athletes to influential politicians and celebrated authors, each adding their unique voice to the ongoing story of this dynamic American city.

About This Paterson Map Page

This page provides an interactive Google map of Paterson, New Jersey with street, satellite and terrain views and integrated Street View imagery. Live weather conditions are sourced directly from the National Weather Service, with current observations and a 7-day forecast also powered by Open-Meteo. Real-time local news and world news feeds keep the page current, while a Wikipedia summary or an editorially written description provides background on Paterson and Passaic County.

Detailed location data for Paterson includes the ZIP code (07505), telephone area code (973, 862), county seat of Passaic County (Paterson), and school district assignment (Paterson City School District). These are among the most commonly searched location details for any US city or town.

Location data is drawn from the USGS Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) and cross-verified against 2020 US Census records by coordinate proximity — ensuring the correct Paterson is identified even where the name is shared across multiple counties or states. Population figures are sourced from the 2020 US Census.