South Amboy, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,989
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$91,997/yr
-16.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,493
3.0% year-over-year change

South Amboy population

How many people live in South Amboy

South Amboy is home to 9,989 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.4% of South Amboy locals are male, and 55.6% are female.

Total population
9,989
2.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.4%
4,436
Female
55.6%
5,553
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,436 44.4% 1.7%
Female 5,553 55.6% 3.8%
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 South Amboy is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.9% are children under 15, then 8.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.8% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.9%
15 to 24
8.4%
25 to 44
27.8%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
20%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,590 15.9% 7.1%
15 to 24 844 8.4% -0.2%
25 to 44 2,776 27.8% 0.4%
45 to 64 2,785 27.9% -7.1%
Over 65 1,994 20% 23.0%
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 South Amboy, 80.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 15.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 65.3% of locals are Caucasian, 10.4% are African American and 3.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
80.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
15.4%
Non-citizens
4.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,035 80.4% 2.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,533 15.4% -1.6%
Non-citizens 421 4.2% 31.1%
Racial breakdown
White
65.3%
Black or African American
10.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
3.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.4%
Other
9.8%
Value Percent
White 6,522 65.3%
Black or African American 1,038 10.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 45 0.4%
Asian 371 3.7%
Two or more races 1,035 10.4%
Other 978 9.8%

Households in South Amboy

A peek inside South Amboy households

South Amboy has 4,209 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 71.5% are families, while the remaining 28.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,209
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,198
Family households
3,011
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,198 28.5% 8.3%
Family households 3,011 71.5% -0.8%
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 South Amboy

The housing landscape of South Amboy

South Amboy's housing consists of 4,493 units, with 45% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 15.8% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,493
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,024 45%
1 unit, attached 710 15.8%
2 units 501 11.2%
3 or 4 units 347 7.7%
5 to 9 units 394 8.8%
10 to 19 units 28 0.6%
20 to 49 units 58 1.3%
50 or more units 404 9%
Mobile home 27 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
90
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Amboy

In South Amboy, the median construction year is 1960. About 38.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,726 38.4% 2.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 273 6.1% -0.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 252 5.6% -8.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 364 8.1% 8.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 174 3.9% -5.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 158 3.5% -16.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 219 4.9% -3.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 892 19.8% 24.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 345 7.7% -27.5%
Built in 2020 or later 90 2% N/A
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.

South Amboy occupancy rates

Out of the 4,209 occupied housing units in South Amboy, 56.5% are owner-occupied, while 43.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,209
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,832
Owner occupied
2,377
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,832 43.5% -1.2%
Owner occupied 2,377 56.5% 4.0%
Unoccupied housing units
6.3%
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.

South Amboy housing costs

Housing costs in South Amboy come to a median of $1,917 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,707.

Median housing costs per month
$1,917/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 South Amboy
$1,707/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 South Amboy

South Amboy education at a glance

About 41.1% of the population in South Amboy went to high school, while 16.9% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 16.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 244 3% 20.2%
High school diploma 3,332 41.1% 11.5%
College diploma 1,372 16.9% -26.9%
Associate degree 806 10% 23.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,329 16.4% -2.3%
Graduate degree 1,021 12.6% 5.9%
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 South Amboy

How much people earn in South Amboy

The average annual household income in South Amboy was $105,343 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -6.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $91,997, reflecting a -16.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Amboy
$105,343/year
-6.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Amboy
$91,997/year
-16.5% year-over-year change

South Amboy income by age

In South Amboy, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $106,458. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $99,878 overall. Overall, 93.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $106,458 -19.1%
45 - 64 $99,878 2.8%
Over 65 $76,237 -15.4%
Above poverty level
9,201
Below poverty level
646
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,201 93.4% 3.3%
Below poverty level 646 6.6% -10.9%

Employment in South Amboy

Workforce and job types in South Amboy

The job market in South Amboy is powered by 5,322 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4.6% run their own businesses, 71.5% are employed by private companies, and 19.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,322
-2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
4,038
Blue collar
1,284
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,038 75.9% -6.0%
Blue collar 1,284 24.1% 9.7%
Employer type
Self employees
4.6%
Private companies
71.5%
Governmental workers
19.5%
Not for profit companies
4.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 247 4.6% 3.8%
Private companies 3,804 71.5% -2.2%
Governmental workers 1,040 19.5% 5.2%
Not for profit companies 231 4.3% -33.6%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
-0.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South Amboy stands at 5.9%, 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 South Amboy

How people get around in South Amboy

Commuting methods vary: 76.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,020 76.3% -6.3%
Bus or trolleybus 95 1.8% 35.7%
Subway or elevated 77 1.5% N/A
Railroad 368 7% -5.2%
Ferryboat 23 0.4% 21.1%
Walk 47 0.9% 62.1%
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 South Amboy by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
08879 23,556 9,344 $92,786 $110,107

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FAQs about South Amboy demographics 

What is the total population of South Amboy?

South Amboy has a total population of 9,989 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 +2.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South Amboy?

The gender ratio in South Amboy is as follows:
  • 44.4% males (4,436 residents)
  • 55.6% females (5,553 residents)

What is the median age in South Amboy?

The median age in South Amboy is 42.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Amboy?

The age distribution in South Amboy is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.9% (1,590 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.4% (844 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.8% (2,776 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (2,785 residents)
  • Over 65: 20% (1,994 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Amboy?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Amboy is as follows:
  • White: 65.3% (6,522 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.4% (1,038 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (45 residents)
  • Asian: 3.7% (371 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.4% (1,035 residents)
  • Other: 9.8% (978 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 80.4% of the population in South Amboy.

How many housing units are there in South Amboy?

There are 4,493 housing units in South Amboy, reflecting a +3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

South Amboy has a total of 4,209 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Amboy?

South Amboy has a median household income of $91,997, representing a -16.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South Amboy?

The employment rate is 94.1% in South Amboy, with a workforce of 5,322 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.9% (4,038 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.1% (1,284 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4.6% (247 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.5% (3,804 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.5% (1,040 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.3% (231 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