On Thursday, May 29, Morris County announced that it has once again received AAA credit ratings from both Moody’s Investor Services and S&P Global Ratings, marking the county’s 50th consecutive year with the highest possible financial assessment.
The ratings reaffirm the county’s strong fiscal management, healthy reserves, and thriving local economy. Moody’s highlighted Morris County’s high resident income, substantial per capita property values, and sound governance practices. S&P cited the county’s stable financial performance, conservative budgeting, and comprehensive long-term planning.
The 2025 ratings involved a review of the county’s planned $28.2 million in general obligation bonds, consisting of $20 million general improvement, $2.8 million in parks and $5.4 million county college bonds and comes at a time when federal credit ratings have faced recent downgrades—underscoring the county’s financial stewardship.
Moody’s Findings on Morris County’s Credit Strength
- Strong governance and healthy reserves
- Wealthy and growing economy
- Above-average resident wealth and income
Summary of S&P Findings on Morris County
- Very strong local economy
- Historically stable budgetary performance that has resulted in continued reserve improvement due to conservative budgeting, supported by a strong revenue base
- Robust and comprehensive management that includes conservative and forward-thinking budgeting practices.
The Moody’s and S&P outlook for the coming term is also stable, reflecting the expectation that the county will maintain a strong financial position and continue to benefit from its growing economy.
To learn more, read the Morris County Press Release here: Morris County Earns AAA Financial Ratings for 50th Consecutive Year – Morris County, NJ