Cape May County, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
94,941
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$91,128/yr
3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
99,599
-0.0% year-over-year change

Cape May County population

How many people live in Cape May County

Cape May County is home to 94,941 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Cape May County locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
94,941
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
45,971
Female
51.6%
48,970
Value Percent YoY change
Male 45,971 48.4% -0.5%
Female 48,970 51.6% -0.1%
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 Cape May County is 52, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.1% are children under 15, then 9.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20% of the population, while another 27.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 29.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
51.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.1%
15 to 24
9.2%
25 to 44
20%
45 to 64
27.2%
Over 65
29.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 13,348 14.1% -2.3%
15 to 24 8,752 9.2% -2.3%
25 to 44 19,007 20% 0.9%
45 to 64 25,826 27.2% -2.7%
Over 65 28,008 29.5% 2.9%
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 Cape May County, 93.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.2% of locals are Caucasian, 3.7% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 88,913 93.6% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,908 4.1% 3.8%
Non-citizens 2,120 2.2% -13.0%
Racial breakdown
White
85.2%
Black or African American
3.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.2%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 80,838 85.2%
Black or African American 3,529 3.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 354 0.4%
Asian 687 0.7%
Two or more races 5,886 6.2%
Other 3,647 3.8%

Households in Cape May County

A peek inside Cape May County households

Cape May County has 44,884 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65% are families, while the remaining 35% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
44,884
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
15,730
Family households
29,154
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,730 35% 3.5%
Family households 29,154 65% -0.1%
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 Cape May County

The housing landscape of Cape May County

Cape May County's housing consists of 99,599 units, with 51.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 26% 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 3.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
99,599
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 51,452 51.7%
1 unit, attached 25,938 26%
2 units 7,262 7.3%
3 or 4 units 2,948 3%
5 to 9 units 2,979 3%
10 to 19 units 1,864 1.9%
20 to 49 units 1,601 1.6%
50 or more units 2,280 2.3%
Mobile home 3,271 3.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,797
80.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cape May County

In Cape May County, the median construction year is 1981. About 12.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,519 12.6% -5.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,683 3.7% -5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,189 9.2% -2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 9,209 9.2% -1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 14,183 14.2% 3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 16,805 16.9% -2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,583 9.6% -0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 15,638 15.7% 1.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,993 7% 4.9%
Built in 2020 or later 1,797 1.8% 80.4%
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.

Cape May County occupancy rates

Out of the 44,884 occupied housing units in Cape May County, 80.3% are owner-occupied, while 19.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 54.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
44,884
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,831
Owner occupied
36,053
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,831 19.7% -3.9%
Owner occupied 36,053 80.3% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
54.9%
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.

Cape May County housing costs

Housing costs in Cape May County come to a median of $1,559 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,360.

Median housing costs per month
$1,559/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 Cape May County
$1,360/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 Cape May County

Cape May County education at a glance

About 35.6% of the population in Cape May County went to high school, while 18.5% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 23.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,446 1.8% -6.2%
High school diploma 28,002 35.6% -2.5%
College diploma 14,536 18.5% -2.9%
Associate degree 5,545 7% -2.2%
Bachelor's degree 18,357 23.3% 4.8%
Graduate degree 10,781 13.7% 4.7%
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 Cape May County

How much people earn in Cape May County

The average annual household income in Cape May County was $122,129 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $91,128, reflecting a +3.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cape May County
$122,129/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cape May County
$91,128/year
3.5% year-over-year change

Cape May County income by age

In Cape May County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $103,180. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $109,621 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,188, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $73,260 in earnings. Overall, 91.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,188 4.3%
25 - 44 $103,180 5.8%
45 - 64 $109,621 2.2%
Over 65 $73,260 1.0%
Above poverty level
84,984
Below poverty level
8,172
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 84,984 91.2% -0.4%
Below poverty level 8,172 8.8% 0.9%

Employment in Cape May County

Workforce and job types in Cape May County

The job market in Cape May County is powered by 43,190 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.7% run their own businesses, 58.1% are employed by private companies, and 22.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
43,190
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
35,999
Blue collar
7,191
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 35,999 83.4% 0.8%
Blue collar 7,191 16.6% -0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11.7%
Private companies
58.1%
Governmental workers
22.2%
Not for profit companies
8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,039 11.7% 5.1%
Private companies 25,110 58.1% 0.2%
Governmental workers 9,567 22.2% -0.6%
Not for profit companies 3,474 8% 0.3%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
-12.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cape May County stands at 5.3%, 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 Cape May County

How people get around in Cape May County

In Cape May County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-3.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 34,834 81% -0.3%
Taxicab 27 0.1% -40.0%
Bus or trolleybus 322 0.8% 18.4%
Subway or elevated 15 0% N/A
Railroad 20 0% 400.0%
Ferryboat 6 0% -50.0%
Motorcycle 3 0% -57.1%
Bicycle 405 0.9% -12.5%
Walk 1,285 3% -22.3%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Cape May County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
08202 1,612 838 $146,071 $215,201
08204 16,573 8,450 $82,466 $111,211
08210 17,143 7,183 $90,013 $117,988
08212 138 82 $86,125 $168,487
08223 4,048 1,833 $107,131 $121,135
08226 11,261 5,689 $101,782 $147,215
08230 5,700 2,176 $115,152 $144,081
08242 4,141 1,904 $93,250 $101,353
08243 2,000 1,117 $108,359 $164,172
08246 57 57 $0 $0

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FAQs about Cape May County demographics 

What is the total population of Cape May County?

Cape May County has a total population of 94,941 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cape May County?

The gender ratio in Cape May County is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (45,971 residents)
  • 51.6% females (48,970 residents)

What is the median age in Cape May County?

The median age in Cape May County is 51.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cape May County?

The age distribution in Cape May County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.1% (13,348 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.2% (8,752 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20% (19,007 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.2% (25,826 residents)
  • Over 65: 29.5% (28,008 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cape May County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cape May County is as follows:
  • White: 85.2% (80,838 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.7% (3,529 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (354 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (687 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.2% (5,886 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (3,647 residents)

What percentage of the population in Cape May County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.6% of the population in Cape May County.

How many housing units are there in Cape May County?

There are 99,599 housing units in Cape May County, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Cape May County and what is the average household size?

Cape May County has a total of 44,884 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cape May County?

Cape May County has a median household income of $91,128, representing a +3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Cape May County?

The employment rate is 94.7% in Cape May County, with a workforce of 43,190 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.4% (35,999 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.6% (7,191 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.7% (5,039 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.1% (25,110 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.2% (9,567 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8% (3,474 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