Kearny, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
40,614
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,154/yr
-4.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,367
0.2% year-over-year change

Kearny population

How many people live in Kearny

Kearny is home to 40,614 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.9% of Kearny locals are male, and 47.1% are female.

Total population
40,614
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.9%
21,498
Female
47.1%
19,116
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,498 52.9% 3.0%
Female 19,116 47.1% -3.0%
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 Kearny is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.3% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.4% of the population, while another 28% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
40
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.3%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
30.4%
45 to 64
28%
Over 65
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,622 16.3% -4.0%
15 to 24 4,775 11.8% 10.4%
25 to 44 12,325 30.4% -3.2%
45 to 64 11,358 28% 3.8%
Over 65 5,534 13.6% -2.4%
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 Kearny, 51.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 28.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 19.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 36.5% of locals are Caucasian, 5.8% are African American and 4.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 25.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 27.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
51.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
28.4%
Non-citizens
19.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,069 51.9% -1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 11,534 28.4% -2.1%
Non-citizens 8,011 19.7% 7.8%
Racial breakdown
White
36.5%
Black or African American
5.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
27.8%
Other
25.1%
Value Percent
White 14,816 36.5%
Black or African American 2,338 5.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 122 0.3%
Asian 1,802 4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 62 0.2%
Two or more races 11,297 27.8%
Other 10,177 25.1%

Households in Kearny

A peek inside Kearny households

Kearny has 14,751 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 72.7% are families, while the remaining 27.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,751
-0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,027
Family households
10,724
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,027 27.3% 0.8%
Family households 10,724 72.7% -0.3%
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 Kearny

The housing landscape of Kearny

Kearny's housing consists of 15,367 units, with 30% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
15,367
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,618 30%
1 unit, attached 853 5.6%
2 units 4,070 26.5%
3 or 4 units 2,427 15.8%
5 to 9 units 997 6.5%
10 to 19 units 966 6.3%
20 to 49 units 849 5.5%
50 or more units 576 3.8%
Mobile home 6 0%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 0%
Homes built since 2020
113
43.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kearny

In Kearny, the median construction year is 1951. About 38.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,873 38.2% 3.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,519 9.9% -6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,084 13.6% -10.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,653 10.8% -5.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,093 7.1% 0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,015 6.6% 12.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 788 5.1% 2.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 558 3.6% 23.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 671 4.4% -4.4%
Built in 2020 or later 113 0.7% 43.0%
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.

Kearny occupancy rates

Out of the 14,751 occupied housing units in Kearny, 42.9% are owner-occupied, while 57.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,751
-0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,418
Owner occupied
6,333
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,418 57.1% 4.6%
Owner occupied 6,333 42.9% -5.6%
Unoccupied housing units
4.0%
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.

Kearny housing costs

Housing costs in Kearny come to a median of $1,749 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,720.

Median housing costs per month
$1,749/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 Kearny
$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 Kearny

Kearny education at a glance

About 41.7% of the population in Kearny went to high school, while 17.1% pursued college studies. Another 5% earned an associate degree and 19.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,489 7.6% 0.2%
High school diploma 13,592 41.7% 2.9%
College diploma 5,565 17.1% -4.5%
Associate degree 1,617 5% -10.5%
Bachelor's degree 6,405 19.6% 3.5%
Graduate degree 2,925 9% 1.5%
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 Kearny

How much people earn in Kearny

The average annual household income in Kearny was $101,127 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $79,154, reflecting a -4.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kearny
$101,127/year
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kearny
$79,154/year
-4.9% year-over-year change

Kearny income by age

In Kearny, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,764. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,953 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,602, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $71,103 in earnings. Overall, 87.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,602 9.6%
25 - 44 $73,764 -3.4%
45 - 64 $89,953 -1.7%
Over 65 $71,103 -9.9%
Above poverty level
33,565
Below poverty level
4,789
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 33,565 87.5% 0.6%
Below poverty level 4,789 12.5% 0.8%

Average renter income in Kearny

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kearny, their median household income was $63,832 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$63,832
Rent-to-income ratio
32.3%
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 Kearny

Workforce and job types in Kearny

The job market in Kearny is powered by 20,737 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 71.1% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
20,737
-1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
14,589
Blue collar
6,148
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,589 70.4% -2.1%
Blue collar 6,148 29.6% -0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
71.1%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,930 9.3% -6.5%
Private companies 14,745 71.1% -0.8%
Governmental workers 2,771 13.4% -10.3%
Not for profit companies 1,291 6.2% 18.3%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
28.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kearny stands at 6.6%, 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 Kearny

How people get around in Kearny

In Kearny, the average commute time is 33 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 73.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
33 min
-1.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 15,096 73.9% -2.7%
Taxicab 107 0.5% 345.8%
Bus or trolleybus 1,341 6.6% -2.8%
Subway or elevated 1,038 5.1% N/A
Railroad 179 0.9% -13.1%
Bicycle 89 0.4% 11.2%
Walk 1,248 6.1% 0.4%
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 Kearny by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
07032 40,614 14,751 $79,154 $101,127

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FAQs about Kearny demographics 

What is the total population of Kearny?

Kearny has a total population of 40,614 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kearny?

The gender ratio in Kearny is as follows:
  • 52.9% males (21,498 residents)
  • 47.1% females (19,116 residents)

What is the median age in Kearny?

The median age in Kearny is 40.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kearny?

The age distribution in Kearny is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.3% (6,622 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (4,775 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.4% (12,325 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28% (11,358 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.6% (5,534 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kearny?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kearny is as follows:
  • White: 36.5% (14,816 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.8% (2,338 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (122 residents)
  • Asian: 4.4% (1,802 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (62 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 27.8% (11,297 residents)
  • Other: 25.1% (10,177 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 51.9% of the population in Kearny.

How many housing units are there in Kearny?

There are 15,367 housing units in Kearny, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kearny has a total of 14,751 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kearny?

Kearny has a median household income of $79,154, representing a -4.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.4% in Kearny, with a workforce of 20,737 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.4% (14,589 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.6% (6,148 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (1,930 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.1% (14,745 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (2,771 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (1,291 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