25 Famous People Who Are From Jersey City, NJ (and Their Impact on the World)
Jersey City, New Jersey, isn't just a vibrant and diverse powerhouse right across the Hudson River from Manhattan — it's the birthplace and hometown of some of the most extraordinary artists, athletes, actors, politicians, and cultural legends who've ever walked the earth.
From music icons and Oscar-grabbing actors to political juggernauts and game-changing athletes, these phenomenal figures prove how Jersey City's electric energy and incredible diversity spark pure greatness.
Here's the thing: Jersey City is one of the most diverse cities in America, with a population of over 291,000 (2025) made up of 28.7% White, 25.8% Asian, 21.4% Black or African American, and a thriving Hispanic and multicultural community. This melting pot? It's been igniting creativity, ambition, and jaw-dropping achievement for generations.
Musicians & Singers from Jersey City
1. Kool & the Gang
Picture this: a group forms at Lincoln High School in Jersey City and becomes one of the world's most explosive R&B, funk, and soul phenomena — selling over 70 million albums and earning a street named in their honor: Kool & The Gang Way. That's not just success; that's legendary.
2. Nancy Sinatra
Best known for "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'", Nancy was born right here in Jersey City and went on to carve out her own spectacular place in music history as Frank Sinatra's daughter — but make no mistake, she made her own magic.
3. Christina Milian
The platinum-selling sensation and actress behind "Dip It Low" first drew breath at Jersey City Medical Center before rocketing into the spotlight in music, film, and TV. Pure star power from day one.
4. Akon
The Grammy-nominated global superstar spent some of his game-changing formative years in Jersey City, later launching a music career that didn't just cross genres and borders — it obliterated them.
5. Joe Budden
Rapper, lyricist, and podcast powerhouse, Joe Budden grew up in Jersey City and doesn't let you forget it — he references the city in his music like the proud Jersey City force he is.
Actors & Entertainers from Jersey City
6. Danny DeVito
Beloved for roles in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Batman Returns, and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, DeVito didn't just act — he produced and directed award-winning projects that changed the game.
7. Nathan Lane
This Tony and Emmy Award-winning dynamo, born in Jersey City, is celebrated for his show-stopping Broadway and film performances in The Producers and The Birdcage. The man's a theatrical force of nature.
8. Vera Farmiga
The Academy Award-nominated powerhouse behind The Conjuring series and Up in the Air grew up right here in Jersey City, proving that hometown talent runs deep.
9. Michael B. Jordan
Known for Creed and Black Panther, Jordan spent part of his youth here before rising to become one of Hollywood's most bankable stars. That Jersey City foundation? It shows.
10. Charlie Sheen
The Two and a Half Men actor lived in Jersey City during his childhood before his long — and often headline-making — Hollywood career took off like a rocket.
11. F. Murray Abraham
Oscar winner for his absolutely unforgettable performance as Salieri in Amadeus, Abraham spent his formative years in Jersey City soaking up that creative energy.
12. Marc Maron
Stand-up comedian and host of the hit WTF with Marc Maron podcast, Maron grew up in Jersey City before becoming a defining voice in comedy — sharp, honest, and absolutely fearless.
13. Flip Wilson
Trailblazing comedian and first African American to host a hit variety show (The Flip Wilson Show), born right here in Jersey City. A true pioneer who changed everything.
Sports Legends from Jersey City
14. Shaquille O'Neal
Raised in Jersey City, Shaq became a 4-time NBA Champion, Hall of Fame center, and media personality who doesn't just dominate — he transforms whatever he touches.
15. Tahir Whitehead
NFL linebacker with a decade-long professional career, born in Jersey City and carrying that hometown grit onto every field.
16. Steve Weatherford
Super Bowl-winning NFL punter with the New York Giants, born in Jersey City. When it mattered most, he delivered — classic Jersey City style.
17. Jim McMahon
Two-time Super Bowl champion quarterback spent his early years in Jersey City, where champions are made, not born.
Cultural Icons, Media & Politics
18. Queen Latifah
Born in Newark but raised in Jersey City, Queen Latifah has shattered barriers as a Grammy-winning rapper, singer, actress, and producer. She's not just royalty — she's a revolution.
19. Lauryn Hill
The Fugees member and solo sensation behind The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill — one of the most acclaimed albums of all time — has roots in Jersey City. Pure artistic genius.
20. Martha Stewart
Lifestyle mogul and television phenomenon was born in Jersey City before becoming America's most famous homemaker and businesswoman. She didn't just build an empire — she redefined what empire means.
21. Chris Christie
Former New Jersey governor and national political heavyweight spent much of his early life in Jersey City, where he learned that presence matters.
22. Joe Jackson
Father and manager to Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5, Joe Jackson raised much of his legendary family right here in Jersey City. Talk about hometown influence that changed the world.
Authors & Historical Figures
23. John Benjamin
Maternal grandfather of The Lord of the Rings author J.R.R. Tolkien, born in Jersey City, connecting our city to one of the most beloved fantasy worlds ever created. Magic runs in Jersey City blood.
24. Richard Conte
Film star of The Godfather and classic crime dramas, born in Jersey City in 1910. Old-school cool with Jersey City heart
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25. Lester Green ("Beetlejuice")
A pop-culture personality and frequent guest on The Howard Stern Show, born in Jersey City. Sometimes fame comes in the most unexpected packages.
Famous Landmarks & Ties to Celebrity
Many of these icons first saw the world at local treasures like Margaret Hague Maternity Hospital or walked the halls of legendary schools like Lincoln High School and Snyder High School. Jersey City doesn't just remember its artists — it celebrates them with vibrant murals, streets like Kool & The Gang Way, and electrifying events at venues like Loew's Jersey Theatre.
Why This Matters:
Jersey City's position as a gateway city — where cultures collide and ideas explode into brilliance — is exactly why so many of its people have gone on to reshape music, film, sports, politics, and beyond. Whether you're a fan of old-school soul, blockbuster actors, or political powerhouses, you'll find a Jersey City connection that's absolutely worth celebrating.
Love diving into Jersey City's rich history and famous residents? The Jill Biggs Group doesn't just know every corner of this vibrant community — we live and breathe it, from its star-studded past to its exciting future. Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring, our local expertise isn't just helpful — it's transformative. We'll help you find your perfect place in Jersey City.
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