Newark

-Population: 285,731 (1997 census)

-Area: 24.1 sq miles

-Income: $26,913 (1999 median household)

The nation's third oldest city was founded by Puritans and incorporated as a township in 1666. Newark is better known for its vital downtown business and commercial area. Among the leading businesses are banks, law firms, AT&T, and PSE&G. Also located in the downtown area are The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Rutgers University, Seton Hall Law School, NJIT, and several major hospitals.