Garfield, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
32,783
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,700/yr
5.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,846
-3.2% year-over-year change

Garfield population

How many people live in Garfield

Garfield is home to 32,783 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Garfield locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
32,783
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
16,169
Female
50.7%
16,614
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,169 49.3% -1.0%
Female 16,614 50.7% 2.7%
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 Garfield is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.5% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
29.5%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
14.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,502 16.8% 5.1%
15 to 24 4,376 13.4% 2.5%
25 to 44 9,665 29.5% -1.0%
45 to 64 8,424 25.7% -1.1%
Over 65 4,816 14.7% 2.0%
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 Garfield, 49.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 30.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 19.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 50.4% of locals are Caucasian, 6.2% are African American and 3.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 21.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
49.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
30.6%
Non-citizens
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,288 49.7% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 10,014 30.6% 1.8%
Non-citizens 6,481 19.8% 1.8%
Racial breakdown
White
50.4%
Black or African American
6.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
21.9%
Other
17.4%
Value Percent
White 16,534 50.4%
Black or African American 2,044 6.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 70 0.2%
Asian 1,233 3.8%
Two or more races 7,180 21.9%
Other 5,722 17.4%

Households in Garfield

A peek inside Garfield households

Garfield has 11,191 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 75.9% are families, while the remaining 24.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,191
-3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,701
Family households
8,490
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,701 24.1% -3.9%
Family households 8,490 75.9% -2.8%
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 Garfield

The housing landscape of Garfield

Garfield's housing consists of 11,846 units, with 20.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.5% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
11,846
-3.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,451 20.7%
1 unit, attached 885 7.5%
2 units 5,659 47.8%
3 or 4 units 1,374 11.6%
5 to 9 units 508 4.3%
10 to 19 units 262 2.2%
20 to 49 units 218 1.8%
50 or more units 489 4.1%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Garfield

In Garfield, the median construction year is 1954. About 29.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,544 29.9% 6.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,455 12.3% -11.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,440 20.6% -5.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,322 11.2% -21.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 873 7.4% -7.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 564 4.8% 3.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 583 4.9% -7.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 544 4.6% 6.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 521 4.4% 40.0%
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.

Garfield occupancy rates

Out of the 11,191 occupied housing units in Garfield, 44.7% are owner-occupied, while 55.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,191
-3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,185
Owner occupied
5,006
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,185 55.3% -1.9%
Owner occupied 5,006 44.7% -4.4%
Unoccupied housing units
5.5%
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.

Garfield housing costs

Housing costs in Garfield come to a median of $1,797 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,688.

Median housing costs per month
$1,797/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 Garfield
$1,688/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 Garfield

Garfield education at a glance

About 44.7% of the population in Garfield went to high school, while 16.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 16.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,035 7.8% -18.0%
High school diploma 11,655 44.7% 4.2%
College diploma 4,224 16.2% -1.2%
Associate degree 1,909 7.3% -2.5%
Bachelor's degree 4,292 16.5% 3.9%
Graduate degree 1,963 7.5% -6.2%
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 Garfield

How much people earn in Garfield

The average annual household income in Garfield was $103,293 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 $79,700, reflecting a +5.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Garfield
$103,293/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Garfield
$79,700/year
5.3% year-over-year change

Garfield income by age

In Garfield, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $92,188. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,355 overall. Overall, 86.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $92,188 9.6%
45 - 64 $89,355 8.7%
Over 65 $49,467 -0.6%
Above poverty level
27,850
Below poverty level
4,288
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 27,850 86.7% 1.5%
Below poverty level 4,288 13.3% -4.5%

Average renter income in Garfield

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Garfield, their median household income was $59,505 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$59,505
Rent-to-income ratio
34%
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 Garfield

Workforce and job types in Garfield

The job market in Garfield is powered by 16,933 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.3% run their own businesses, 77.2% are employed by private companies, and 9.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,933
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
11,817
Blue collar
5,116
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,817 69.8% 2.5%
Blue collar 5,116 30.2% -3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.3%
Private companies
77.2%
Governmental workers
9.8%
Not for profit companies
5.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,242 7.3% -18.4%
Private companies 13,076 77.2% 4.4%
Governmental workers 1,654 9.8% -6.2%
Not for profit companies 961 5.7% -3.9%
Unemployment rate
6.7%
23.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Garfield stands at 6.7%, 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 Garfield

How people get around in Garfield

In Garfield, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 78.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,083 78.9% 1.5%
Taxicab 133 0.8% 75.0%
Bus or trolleybus 815 4.9% 7.4%
Subway or elevated 59 0.4% N/A
Railroad 71 0.4% -42.3%
Bicycle 181 1.1% 94.6%
Walk 789 4.8% -3.8%
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 Garfield by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
07026 32,783 11,191 $79,700 $103,293

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FAQs about Garfield demographics 

What is the total population of Garfield?

Garfield has a total population of 32,783 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Garfield?

The gender ratio in Garfield is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (16,169 residents)
  • 50.7% females (16,614 residents)

What is the median age in Garfield?

The median age in Garfield is 38.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Garfield?

The age distribution in Garfield is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (5,502 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (4,376 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.5% (9,665 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (8,424 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.7% (4,816 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Garfield?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Garfield is as follows:
  • White: 50.4% (16,534 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.2% (2,044 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (70 residents)
  • Asian: 3.8% (1,233 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 21.9% (7,180 residents)
  • Other: 17.4% (5,722 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 49.7% of the population in Garfield.

How many housing units are there in Garfield?

There are 11,846 housing units in Garfield, reflecting a -3.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Garfield has a total of 11,191 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Garfield?

Garfield has a median household income of $79,700, representing a +5.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Garfield?

The employment rate is 93.3% in Garfield, with a workforce of 16,933 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.8% (11,817 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.2% (5,116 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.3% (1,242 residents)
  • Private companies: 77.2% (13,076 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.8% (1,654 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.7% (961 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