Jersey City, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
294,078
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$97,710/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
135,231
2.0% year-over-year change

Jersey City population

How many people live in Jersey City

Jersey City is home to 294,078 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Jersey City locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
294,078
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
148,523
Female
49.5%
145,555
Value Percent YoY change
Male 148,523 50.5% 1.6%
Female 145,555 49.5% 1.4%
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 Jersey City is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 10.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 40.6% of the population, while another 20.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
10.1%
25 to 44
40.6%
45 to 64
20.5%
Over 65
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 50,060 17% -0.3%
15 to 24 29,653 10.1% 1.8%
25 to 44 119,287 40.6% 2.9%
45 to 64 60,411 20.5% -0.1%
Over 65 34,667 11.8% 2.1%
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 Jersey City, 55% of the population are US-born citizens, while 22.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 22.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 26.2% of locals are Caucasian, 20.4% are African American and 26.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 15% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
55%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
22.8%
Non-citizens
22.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 161,743 55% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 66,984 22.8% -0.6%
Non-citizens 65,351 22.2% 4.1%
Racial breakdown
White
26.2%
Black or African American
20.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
26.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
15%
Other
10.8%
Value Percent
White 77,089 26.2%
Black or African American 60,120 20.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,242 0.8%
Asian 78,731 26.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 53 0%
Two or more races 44,055 15%
Other 31,788 10.8%

Households in Jersey City

A peek inside Jersey City households

Jersey City has 125,223 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.6% are families, while the remaining 45.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
125,223
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
56,895
Family households
68,328
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 56,895 45.4% 2.7%
Family households 68,328 54.6% 0.9%
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 Jersey City

The housing landscape of Jersey City

Jersey City's housing consists of 135,231 units, with 7.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.1% 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
135,231
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,847 7.3%
1 unit, attached 9,644 7.1%
2 units 27,464 20.3%
3 or 4 units 15,117 11.2%
5 to 9 units 12,909 9.6%
10 to 19 units 8,196 6.1%
20 to 49 units 12,240 9%
50 or more units 39,676 29.3%
Mobile home 83 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 55 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,392
93.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Jersey City

In Jersey City, the median construction year is 1971. About 29.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 39,509 29.2% 3.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,653 4.9% -8.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 10,207 7.6% -4.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 10,263 7.6% -3.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,906 6.6% -7.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9,698 7.2% 1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,757 7.2% -2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 16,482 12.2% -0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 20,364 15.1% 10.9%
Built in 2020 or later 3,392 2.5% 93.2%
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.

Jersey City occupancy rates

Out of the 125,223 occupied housing units in Jersey City, 27.9% are owner-occupied, while 72.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
125,223
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
90,256
Owner occupied
34,967
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 90,256 72.1% 2.9%
Owner occupied 34,967 27.9% -1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
7.4%
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.

Jersey City housing costs

Housing costs in Jersey City come to a median of $2,129 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,007.

Median housing costs per month
$2,129/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 Jersey City
$2,007/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 Jersey City

Jersey City education at a glance

About 23.7% of the population in Jersey City went to high school, while 14.1% pursued college studies. Another 4.6% earned an associate degree and 29.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 10,913 4.6% 0.7%
High school diploma 56,054 23.7% -3.0%
College diploma 33,401 14.1% -0.5%
Associate degree 10,771 4.6% 0.4%
Bachelor's degree 69,952 29.6% 3.7%
Graduate degree 55,070 23.3% 7.1%
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 Jersey City

How much people earn in Jersey City

The average annual household income in Jersey City was $143,106 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $97,710, reflecting a +3.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Jersey City
$143,106/year
4.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Jersey City
$97,710/year
3.1% year-over-year change

Jersey City income by age

In Jersey City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $133,566. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $90,206 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,400, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,262 in earnings. Overall, 84.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,400 -16.4%
25 - 44 $133,566 4.6%
45 - 64 $90,206 1.5%
Over 65 $45,262 5.2%
Above poverty level
243,166
Below poverty level
45,131
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 243,166 84.4% 1.6%
Below poverty level 45,131 15.6% 2.0%

Employment in Jersey City

Workforce and job types in Jersey City

The job market in Jersey City is powered by 160,835 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 73.5% are employed by private companies, and 10.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
160,835
2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
138,339
Blue collar
22,496
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 138,339 86% 3.4%
Blue collar 22,496 14% -3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
73.5%
Governmental workers
10.8%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 13,473 8.4% 6.6%
Private companies 118,275 73.5% 1.4%
Governmental workers 17,346 10.8% 1.6%
Not for profit companies 11,741 7.3% 9.6%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
-2.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Jersey City stands at 5.5%, 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 Jersey City

How people get around in Jersey City

In Jersey City, the average commute time is 37 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 30.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
37 min
-0.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 47,686 30.3% -5.6%
Taxicab 1,632 1% 6.2%
Bus or trolleybus 12,143 7.7% -3.1%
Subway or elevated 34,477 21.9% N/A
Railroad 2,591 1.6% -1.3%
Ferryboat 662 0.4% -21.2%
Motorcycle 28 0% -40.4%
Bicycle 1,585 1% 22.7%
Walk 8,609 5.5% 1.2%
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 Jersey City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
07302 56,220 28,824 $175,077 $223,346
07304 51,306 20,852 $70,986 $97,204
07305 72,161 26,177 $76,527 $110,030
07306 54,017 22,937 $74,953 $102,430
07307 42,645 17,557 $83,297 $121,636
07310 16,015 7,822 $183,464 $234,665
07311 1,714 1,054 $202,679 $241,726

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FAQs about Jersey City demographics 

What is the total population of Jersey City?

Jersey City has a total population of 294,078 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Jersey City?

The gender ratio in Jersey City is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (148,523 residents)
  • 49.5% females (145,555 residents)

What is the median age in Jersey City?

The median age in Jersey City is 34.7.

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

The age distribution in Jersey City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (50,060 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.1% (29,653 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 40.6% (119,287 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.5% (60,411 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.8% (34,667 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Jersey City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Jersey City is as follows:
  • White: 26.2% (77,089 residents)
  • Black or African American: 20.4% (60,120 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (2,242 residents)
  • Asian: 26.8% (78,731 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (53 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15% (44,055 residents)
  • Other: 10.8% (31,788 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 55% of the population in Jersey City.

How many housing units are there in Jersey City?

There are 135,231 housing units in Jersey City, reflecting a +2.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Jersey City has a total of 125,223 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Jersey City?

Jersey City has a median household income of $97,710, representing a +3.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.5% in Jersey City, with a workforce of 160,835 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86% (138,339 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14% (22,496 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (13,473 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.5% (118,275 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.8% (17,346 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (11,741 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