Biting midges in the genus Culicoides are considered important insect vectors of veterinary importance that primarily affect domestic animals (cows, sheep, goats) and wildlife. They transmit pathogens such as bluetongue virus (BTV) and Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) that circulate endemically in the U.S. and are responsible for billions of dollars of economic losses globally each year. Currently, there are only two species of Culicoides that are recognized by WHO guidelines to transmit these diseases: C. sonorensis Wirth & Jones and C. insignis Lutz, both of which reside primarily in the midwest and southeast regions of the United States. These species are not reported from the northeast, particularly in New Jersey, where BTV and EHDV outbreaks are prevalent. Knowledge of the species distribution of Culicoides in New Jersey remains unclear. To this end, we conducted a broad surveillance project throughout New Jersey during the summer of 2023. Using a meta-barcoding approach with both single and pooled midges collected from diverse habitats, we created and present here an updated species list and broader midge phylogeny inclusive of New Jersey specimens. In addition, we conducted a shotgun metaviromic analysis of our samples to enumerate the viral diversity within members of the genus, while also screening blooded Culicoides for identification of primary hosts. Our results represent an important contribution to the knowledge base surrounding multiple pathogens of paramount economic importance to the livestock industry.