East Orange, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
70,090
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,830/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
29,921
-0.1% year-over-year change

East Orange population

How many people live in East Orange

East Orange is home to 70,090 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.6% of East Orange locals are male, and 54.4% are female.

Total population
70,090
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.6%
31,940
Female
54.4%
38,150
Value Percent YoY change
Male 31,940 45.6% 0.8%
Female 38,150 54.4% 1.7%
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 East Orange is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 10.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.5% of the population, while another 25.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
10.7%
25 to 44
30.5%
45 to 64
25.5%
Over 65
15.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,514 17.8% -2.5%
15 to 24 7,518 10.7% -0.4%
25 to 44 21,407 30.5% -0.5%
45 to 64 17,846 25.5% 5.0%
Over 65 10,805 15.4% 4.9%
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 East Orange, 64.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 22.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 3% of locals are Caucasian, 79.1% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
64.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
22.7%
Non-citizens
12.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 45,410 64.8% -3.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 15,938 22.7% 12.7%
Non-citizens 8,742 12.5% 12.0%
Racial breakdown
White
3%
Black or African American
79.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
8.8%
Other
7.6%
Value Percent
White 2,068 3%
Black or African American 55,452 79.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 146 0.2%
Asian 882 1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 48 0.1%
Two or more races 6,140 8.8%
Other 5,354 7.6%

Households in East Orange

A peek inside East Orange households

East Orange has 28,328 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.7% are families, while the remaining 46.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
28,328
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
13,107
Family households
15,221
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 13,107 46.3% -0.7%
Family households 15,221 53.7% 1.5%
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 East Orange

The housing landscape of East Orange

East Orange's housing consists of 29,921 units, with 19.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.3% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
29,921
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,920 19.8%
1 unit, attached 1,279 4.3%
2 units 4,187 14%
3 or 4 units 3,765 12.6%
5 to 9 units 1,165 3.9%
10 to 19 units 2,137 7.1%
20 to 49 units 3,357 11.2%
50 or more units 8,094 27%
Mobile home 17 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
380
420.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in East Orange

In East Orange, the median construction year is 1956. About 32.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 9,612 32.1% 8.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,890 9.7% -7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,000 13.4% 0.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,776 12.6% -8.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,463 8.2% -7.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,075 6.9% -19.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,073 6.9% 6.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,775 5.9% -4.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 877 2.9% 22.3%
Built in 2020 or later 380 1.3% 420.6%
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.

East Orange occupancy rates

Out of the 28,328 occupied housing units in East Orange, 31% are owner-occupied, while 69% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
28,328
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
19,537
Owner occupied
8,791
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 19,537 69% -4.6%
Owner occupied 8,791 31% 14.0%
Unoccupied housing units
5.3%
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.

East Orange housing costs

Housing costs in East Orange come to a median of $1,607 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,441.

Median housing costs per month
$1,607/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 East Orange
$1,441/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 East Orange

East Orange education at a glance

About 43.3% of the population in East Orange went to high school, while 21.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 15.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,929 5.3% 11.8%
High school diploma 23,765 43.3% 1.9%
College diploma 12,000 21.9% -1.4%
Associate degree 4,246 7.7% 11.1%
Bachelor's degree 8,294 15.1% -5.0%
Graduate degree 3,666 6.7% 18.4%
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 East Orange

How much people earn in East Orange

The average annual household income in East Orange was $79,551 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,830, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in East Orange
$79,551/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in East Orange
$60,830/year
1.6% year-over-year change

East Orange income by age

In East Orange, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,226. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,629 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $63,146, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,461 in earnings. Overall, 83.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $63,146 38.5%
25 - 44 $62,226 3.3%
45 - 64 $76,629 8.5%
Over 65 $42,461 -4.4%
Above poverty level
57,134
Below poverty level
11,201
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 57,134 83.6% 3.2%
Below poverty level 11,201 16.4% -5.7%

Average renter income in East Orange

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in East Orange, their median household income was $47,117 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,117
Rent-to-income ratio
36.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in East Orange

Workforce and job types in East Orange

The job market in East Orange is powered by 33,531 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.2% run their own businesses, 64.6% are employed by private companies, and 19.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
33,531
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
26,368
Blue collar
7,163
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 26,368 78.6% 1.7%
Blue collar 7,163 21.4% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
7.2%
Private companies
64.6%
Governmental workers
19.1%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,425 7.2% 14.9%
Private companies 21,666 64.6% 0.4%
Governmental workers 6,415 19.1% 1.8%
Not for profit companies 3,025 9% 1.1%
Unemployment rate
9.2%
-10.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in East Orange stands at 9.2%, 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 East Orange

How people get around in East Orange

In East Orange, the average commute time is 35 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 61.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
35 min
-0.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 19,769 61.2% 0.1%
Taxicab 923 2.9% 5.7%
Bus or trolleybus 3,494 10.8% 3.1%
Subway or elevated 1,356 4.2% N/A
Railroad 1,557 4.8% -1.0%
Walk 1,047 3.2% -17.3%
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 East Orange by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
07017 40,910 15,916 $58,853 $78,812
07018 28,924 12,287 $62,564 $81,099

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FAQs about East Orange demographics 

What is the total population of East Orange?

East Orange has a total population of 70,090 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 +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in East Orange?

The gender ratio in East Orange is as follows:
  • 45.6% males (31,940 residents)
  • 54.4% females (38,150 residents)

What is the median age in East Orange?

The median age in East Orange is 37.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in East Orange?

The age distribution in East Orange is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (12,514 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.7% (7,518 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.5% (21,407 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.5% (17,846 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.4% (10,805 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of East Orange?

The racial and ethnic makeup of East Orange is as follows:
  • White: 3% (2,068 residents)
  • Black or African American: 79.1% (55,452 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (146 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (882 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (48 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.8% (6,140 residents)
  • Other: 7.6% (5,354 residents)

What percentage of the population in East Orange are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 64.8% of the population in East Orange.

How many housing units are there in East Orange?

There are 29,921 housing units in East Orange, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in East Orange and what is the average household size?

East Orange has a total of 28,328 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in East Orange?

East Orange has a median household income of $60,830, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for East Orange?

The employment rate is 90.8% in East Orange, with a workforce of 33,531 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.6% (26,368 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.4% (7,163 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.2% (2,425 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.6% (21,666 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.1% (6,415 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (3,025 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