The Statehouse Bureau of The Star-Ledger of Newark and The Record newspaper found more than 20,000 retired last year, a 60 percent increase over 2009 and the highest number in at least a decade.
Officials say 144 state troopers also are expected to retire when the fiscal year ends in July. That compares to a yearly average of 61 in the previous decade.
New Jersey teachers led the exodus to retirement last year. Figures show state workers and non-uniformed employees make up most of those turning in their retirement papers this year.
The retirements come as Gov. Chris Christie and lawmakers wrestle over changes in pension and health benefits.
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Information from: The (Newark) Star-Ledger and The (Woodland Park) Record, http://www.nj.com/starledger and www.northjersey.com