Lawrence, NJ

Nestled in central New Jersey between New York and Philadelphia, Lawrence is a town that was founded in the 1690s and still retains much of that colonial and early American ambience. Still, people who call Lawrence home can attest that it has everything a modern resident wants.


At less than 25 square miles, Lawrence is home to approximately 30,000 residents in a number of neighborhoods. The most well-known of these is Lawrenceville, which is the name most associated with the area. Major employers in the area include Bristol-Myers Squibb, the Educational Testing Service, and the 100+ retail establishments at and surrounding Quakerbridge Mall.


Lawrence has a lovely downtown area that is the heart of the original settlement, known as Maidenhead. Here you’ll find open space, restaurants, and the prestigious Lawrenceville School. Close by is Jasna Polana, the former home of John Seward Johnson I. The 226 acre estate is now home to a championship golf course.

What We Love About Lawrence

● Named for Captain James Lawrence, hero of the War of 1812 and known to declare “don’t give up the ship”.
● Home to many past and present celebrities including:
○ Comedian Jon Stewart
○ General Norman Schwarkopf, commander of the coalition forces during the 1991 Gulf War
○ Children’s book author Margery Cuyler
○ Chinese historian and Princeton University professor, James T. C. Liu
● The Delaware & Raritan Canal passes through Lawrence, and along with Port Mercer Canal House, built in 1830, are part of the New Jersey State park system.

Lifestyle

With close to 30 parks, Lawrence offers passive and organized recreation for residents of all ages and abilities. Sports fields for baseball, football, and soccer are scattered throughout the town. A nature center and dog park offer additional opportunities to explore the environment and get outside with your furry friends.


The town’s local library is part of the county-wide Mercer County library system, allowing readers to take part in events at all branches. The system offers an in-house social worker and
programs for toddlers through adults. The town’s Senior Center offers programs and transportation through its Office on Aging.


Lawrence is just a short drive from Princeton, where one can easily pick up the “Dinky Train” to connect to NJ Transit’s main line to NY and Philadelphia. Lawrence is proud home to the non-profit, HomeFront New Jersey and headquarters to Special Olympics, New Jersey.