New Jersey demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,343,809
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$103,556/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,791,354
0.4% year-over-year change

New Jersey population

How many people live in New Jersey

New Jersey is home to 9,343,809 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of New Jersey locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
9,343,809
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
4,598,393
Female
50.8%
4,745,416
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,598,393 49.2% 0.9%
Female 4,745,416 50.8% 0.8%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in New Jersey is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.9% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.2% of the population, while another 26.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.9%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
26.2%
45 to 64
26.5%
Over 65
17.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,671,596 17.9% 0.2%
15 to 24 1,149,011 12.3% 0.8%
25 to 44 2,443,634 26.2% 1.5%
45 to 64 2,473,810 26.5% -0.7%
Over 65 1,605,758 17.2% 3.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In New Jersey, 73.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 16% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 54% of locals are Caucasian, 12.8% are African American and 10.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
73.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
16%
Non-citizens
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,868,873 73.5% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,496,126 16% 1.3%
Non-citizens 978,810 10.5% 4.1%
Racial breakdown
White
54%
Black or African American
12.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
10.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.4%
Other
10.1%
Value Percent
White 5,043,686 54%
Black or African American 1,194,061 12.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 52,735 0.6%
Asian 946,907 10.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2,665 0%
Two or more races 1,156,984 12.4%
Other 946,771 10.1%

Households in New Jersey

A peek inside New Jersey households

New Jersey has 3,507,701 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.8% are families, while the remaining 32.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,507,701
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,130,188
Family households
2,377,513
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,130,188 32.2% 1.1%
Family households 2,377,513 67.8% 0.7%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in New Jersey

The housing landscape of New Jersey

New Jersey's housing consists of 3,791,354 units, with 52.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,791,354
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,993,468 52.6%
1 unit, attached 377,708 10%
2 units 324,447 8.6%
3 or 4 units 232,335 6.1%
5 to 9 units 175,725 4.6%
10 to 19 units 184,619 4.9%
20 to 49 units 158,754 4.2%
50 or more units 307,573 8.1%
Mobile home 35,450 0.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1,275 0%
Homes built since 2020
41,626
78.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the median construction year is 1970. About 17.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 658,007 17.4% -0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 246,754 6.5% -2.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 523,113 13.8% -1.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 486,829 12.8% -0.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 466,755 12.3% -0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 448,886 11.8% 0.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 336,457 8.9% -1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 347,908 9.2% 1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 235,019 6.2% 7.8%
Built in 2020 or later 41,626 1.1% 78.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

New Jersey occupancy rates

Out of the 3,507,701 occupied housing units in New Jersey, 63.8% are owner-occupied, while 36.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,507,701
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,268,573
Owner occupied
2,239,128
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,268,573 36.2% 0.5%
Owner occupied 2,239,128 63.8% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

New Jersey housing costs

Housing costs in New Jersey come to a median of $1,929 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,720.

Median housing costs per month
$1,929/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in New Jersey
$1,720/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in New Jersey

New Jersey education at a glance

About 31% of the population in New Jersey went to high school, while 16.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 25.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 319,614 4.4% 3.1%
High school diploma 2,268,023 31% -0.1%
College diploma 1,237,880 16.9% -1.7%
Associate degree 482,007 6.6% 1.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,837,147 25.2% 2.1%
Graduate degree 1,161,493 15.9% 3.7%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in New Jersey

How much people earn in New Jersey

The average annual household income in New Jersey was $143,363 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $103,556, reflecting a +2.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in New Jersey
$143,363/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in New Jersey
$103,556/year
2.5% year-over-year change

New Jersey income by age

In New Jersey, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $114,377. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $126,056 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,814, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $70,763 in earnings. Overall, 90.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,814 4.8%
25 - 44 $114,377 4.0%
45 - 64 $126,056 2.7%
Over 65 $70,763 2.4%
Above poverty level
8,207,234
Below poverty level
881,030
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,207,234 90.3% 0.9%
Below poverty level 881,030 9.7% 0.3%

Employment in New Jersey

Workforce and job types in New Jersey

The job market in New Jersey is powered by 4,687,305 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 68.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,687,305
0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
3,847,432
Blue collar
839,873
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,847,432 82.1% 1.3%
Blue collar 839,873 17.9% -0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
68.7%
Governmental workers
14.3%
Not for profit companies
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 424,277 9% 2.2%
Private companies 3,221,585 68.7% 0.3%
Governmental workers 672,056 14.3% 1.6%
Not for profit companies 369,387 7.9% 4.0%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
3.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in New Jersey stands at 6.3%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in New Jersey

How people get around in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 69.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
-1.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,202,883 69.9% -1.2%
Taxicab 27,426 0.6% 14.0%
Bus or trolleybus 185,536 4% -3.8%
Subway or elevated 81,446 1.8% N/A
Railroad 76,601 1.7% -7.8%
Ferryboat 8,633 0.2% -9.2%
Motorcycle 1,593 0% 17.8%
Bicycle 14,152 0.3% 6.9%
Walk 118,406 2.6% 0.3%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about New Jersey demographics 

What is the total population of New Jersey?

New Jersey has a total population of 9,343,809 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in New Jersey?

The gender ratio in New Jersey is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (4,598,393 residents)
  • 50.8% females (4,745,416 residents)

What is the median age in New Jersey?

The median age in New Jersey is 40.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in New Jersey?

The age distribution in New Jersey is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.9% (1,671,596 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (1,149,011 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.2% (2,443,634 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.5% (2,473,810 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.2% (1,605,758 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of New Jersey?

The racial and ethnic makeup of New Jersey is as follows:
  • White: 54% (5,043,686 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.8% (1,194,061 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (52,735 residents)
  • Asian: 10.1% (946,907 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2,665 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.4% (1,156,984 residents)
  • Other: 10.1% (946,771 residents)

What percentage of the population in New Jersey are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 73.5% of the population in New Jersey.

How many housing units are there in New Jersey?

There are 3,791,354 housing units in New Jersey, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in New Jersey and what is the average household size?

New Jersey has a total of 3,507,701 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in New Jersey?

New Jersey has a median household income of $103,556, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for New Jersey?

The employment rate is 93.7% in New Jersey, with a workforce of 4,687,305 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.1% (3,847,432 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.9% (839,873 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (424,277 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.7% (3,221,585 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.3% (672,056 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.9% (369,387 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025