HACKENSACK, NJ – Bergen County isn't just New Jersey's most populous county. It's also the state's biggest economic powerhouse, producing a staggering $82.4 billion in annual economic activity, a whopping 22% more than any other county in the Garden State.

The eye-popping figures, highlighted by Bergen County officials on social media and reported Wednesday by The Bergen Record, show that the county accounts for approximately 12.5% of New Jersey's entire economy.

That means roughly one out of every eight dollars of economic value generated in New Jersey comes from Bergen County.

The $82.4 billion figure represents the county's gross domestic product, or GDP, which measures the value of goods and services produced by local businesses and industries.

Bergen's economic muscle comes from a combination of its proximity to New York City, major shopping destinations, hospitals, corporate offices and a highly educated workforce.

According to federal economic data cited by USAFacts, professional and business services generated approximately $14 billion in inflation-adjusted economic output in 2024. Real estate and leasing contributed another $13.7 billion, while wholesale trade accounted for approximately $12.4 billion.

Paramus, home to some of the region's largest shopping centers, is among the county's major commercial hubs.

The county also boasts a massive $263 billion property tax ratable base, representing the assessed value of taxable homes, businesses and other properties.

While that figure gives Bergen's municipalities a substantial foundation for collecting property taxes, it doesn't mean county officials have $263 billion sitting in the bank.

And a booming economy doesn't automatically translate into lower property taxes for homeowners.

Bergen's population was estimated at 977,026 in 2025, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, making it New Jersey's most populous county.

More than half of county residents age 25 and older have at least a bachelor's degree, while the median household income stands at approximately $124,884, based on Census estimates covering 2020 through 2024.

The county's location just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, combined with its major highways and transportation networks, continues to make it a prime location for businesses and workers.

The numbers reinforce Bergen County's standing as New Jersey's economic heavyweight, with a lead over the rest of the state that isn't particularly close.