Ocean County, New Jersey
Ocean County is a county located in the U.S. state of New Jersey. It is the southernmost county in the New York metropolitan area; however the southern part of the county borders the Philadelphia metro area. Its county seat is Toms River6. As of the United States 2000 Census, the population was 510,916. 2006 Census Bureau estimates show the county's population growing to around 553,251 making it the fastest growing county in the state and one of the fastest growing in America. Ocean County was established in 1850 from portions of Monmouth County.
Ocean County is home to many attractions including Island Beach State Park, Long Beach Island, Six Flags Great Adventure, home of the world's tallest, fastest roller coaster, Kingda Ka. Ocean County is also the northeast gateway to New Jersey's Pine Barrens.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,372 km² (916 mi²). 1,648 km² (636 mi²) of it is land and 724 km² (280 mi²) of it (30.53%) is water. It is the second largest county by area in New Jersey.
Much of the county is flat and coastal, and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the nation. The highest point is one of three unnamed hills (one in Jackson Township, the other two in Plumsted Township) that reach at least 230 feet (70 m) in elevation. The lowest elevation in the county is sea level.