There are 21
counties in the U.S. state of
New Jersey. These counties together contain 565
municipalities, or
administrative entities composed of clearly defined territory; 250
boroughs, 52
cities, 15
towns, 244
townships, and 4
villages. In New Jersey, a county is a local level of government between the state and municipalities. County government in New Jersey includes a
Board of Chosen Freeholders, sheriff, clerk, and
surrogate (responsible for uncontested and routine probate), all of which are elected officials. Counties organized under the Optional County Charter Law may also have an elected
county executive. Counties traditionally perform state-mandated duties such as the maintenance of jails, parks, and certain roads. The site of a county's administration and courts is called the
county seat.