Ocean County, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
654,362
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$89,863/yr
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
296,357
0.4% year-over-year change

Ocean County population

How many people live in Ocean County

Ocean County is home to 654,362 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Ocean County locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
654,362
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
318,785
Female
51.3%
335,577
Value Percent YoY change
Male 318,785 48.7% 1.3%
Female 335,577 51.3% 1.1%
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 Ocean County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.9% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.4% of the population, while another 23.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.9%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
21.4%
45 to 64
23.7%
Over 65
22.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 137,016 20.9% 1.4%
15 to 24 74,209 11.3% 1.8%
25 to 44 140,179 21.4% 1.8%
45 to 64 154,951 23.7% -0.7%
Over 65 148,007 22.6% 2.3%
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 Ocean County, 90.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.3% of locals are Caucasian, 3% are African American and 1.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 589,407 90.1% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 45,622 7% 2.0%
Non-citizens 19,333 3% 3.2%
Racial breakdown
White
83.3%
Black or African American
3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.4%
Other
4%
Value Percent
White 545,002 83.3%
Black or African American 19,905 3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,587 0.4%
Asian 12,621 1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 236 0%
Two or more races 48,190 7.4%
Other 25,821 4%

Households in Ocean County

A peek inside Ocean County households

Ocean County has 243,843 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.9% are families, while the remaining 33.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
243,843
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
80,711
Family households
163,132
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 80,711 33.1% -0.0%
Family households 163,132 66.9% 1.4%
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 Ocean County

The housing landscape of Ocean County

Ocean County's housing consists of 296,357 units, with 74.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.9% 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 2.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
296,357
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 220,507 74.4%
1 unit, attached 29,249 9.9%
2 units 8,548 2.9%
3 or 4 units 7,469 2.5%
5 to 9 units 6,530 2.2%
10 to 19 units 6,385 2.2%
20 to 49 units 4,590 1.6%
50 or more units 6,826 2.3%
Mobile home 6,244 2.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,680
66.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ocean County

In Ocean County, the median construction year is 1981. About 4.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,037 4.1% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 9,285 3.1% 5.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 25,978 8.8% -1.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 37,055 12.5% -4.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 58,753 19.8% 0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 47,802 16.1% -0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 35,064 11.8% -0.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 39,129 13.2% 0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 27,574 9.3% 5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 3,680 1.2% 66.2%
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.

Ocean County occupancy rates

Out of the 243,843 occupied housing units in Ocean County, 80.7% are owner-occupied, while 19.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
243,843
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
46,969
Owner occupied
196,874
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 46,969 19.3% -1.9%
Owner occupied 196,874 80.7% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
17.7%
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.

Ocean County housing costs

Housing costs in Ocean County come to a median of $1,691 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,755.

Median housing costs per month
$1,691/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 Ocean County
$1,755/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 Ocean County

Ocean County education at a glance

About 37.4% of the population in Ocean County went to high school, while 19.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 21.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11,959 2.4% 5.2%
High school diploma 183,511 37.4% -0.3%
College diploma 97,249 19.8% 0.3%
Associate degree 37,817 7.7% 1.6%
Bachelor's degree 103,917 21.2% 2.0%
Graduate degree 56,543 11.5% 5.0%
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 Ocean County

How much people earn in Ocean County

The average annual household income in Ocean County was $118,767 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 $89,863, reflecting a +4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ocean County
$118,767/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ocean County
$89,863/year
4.0% year-over-year change

Ocean County income by age

In Ocean County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $109,349. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $118,448 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,232, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $62,752 in earnings. Overall, 89.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,232 5.6%
25 - 44 $109,349 6.9%
45 - 64 $118,448 4.4%
Over 65 $62,752 1.5%
Above poverty level
571,296
Below poverty level
66,589
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 571,296 89.6% 1.0%
Below poverty level 66,589 10.4% 2.0%

Employment in Ocean County

Workforce and job types in Ocean County

The job market in Ocean County is powered by 283,847 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.7% run their own businesses, 64.4% are employed by private companies, and 17% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
283,847
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
234,293
Blue collar
49,554
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 234,293 82.5% 2.0%
Blue collar 49,554 17.5% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9.7%
Private companies
64.4%
Governmental workers
17%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 27,496 9.7% 1.0%
Private companies 182,673 64.4% 0.8%
Governmental workers 48,333 17% 2.5%
Not for profit companies 25,345 8.9% 7.2%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
0.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ocean County stands at 5.4%, 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 Ocean County

How people get around in Ocean County

In Ocean County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
-2.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 231,039 83.7% 0.7%
Taxicab 469 0.2% 14.9%
Bus or trolleybus 1,858 0.7% -18.6%
Subway or elevated 266 0.1% N/A
Railroad 313 0.1% -33.8%
Ferryboat 78 0% 4.0%
Motorcycle 73 0% 247.6%
Bicycle 904 0.3% -5.5%
Walk 3,809 1.4% 6.1%
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 Ocean County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
08005 26,866 11,028 $93,584 $114,570
08006 500 217 $125,417 $189,670
08050 28,053 11,274 $115,676 $131,796
08008 6,837 3,310 $120,054 $208,152
08514 4,917 1,744 $134,038 $167,719
08527 58,991 20,324 $115,487 $136,935
08533 7,563 2,654 $113,583 $146,552
08087 25,342 10,722 $91,677 $116,762
08092 3,119 1,177 $110,509 $134,358
08701 139,149 31,469 $64,959 $100,999

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FAQs about Ocean County demographics 

What is the total population of Ocean County?

Ocean County has a total population of 654,362 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 +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ocean County?

The gender ratio in Ocean County is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (318,785 residents)
  • 51.3% females (335,577 residents)

What is the median age in Ocean County?

The median age in Ocean County is 41.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ocean County?

The age distribution in Ocean County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.9% (137,016 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (74,209 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.4% (140,179 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.7% (154,951 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.6% (148,007 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ocean County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ocean County is as follows:
  • White: 83.3% (545,002 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3% (19,905 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (2,587 residents)
  • Asian: 1.9% (12,621 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (236 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.4% (48,190 residents)
  • Other: 4% (25,821 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.1% of the population in Ocean County.

How many housing units are there in Ocean County?

There are 296,357 housing units in Ocean County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ocean County has a total of 243,843 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ocean County?

Ocean County has a median household income of $89,863, representing a +4.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Ocean County?

The employment rate is 94.6% in Ocean County, with a workforce of 283,847 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.5% (234,293 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.5% (49,554 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.7% (27,496 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.4% (182,673 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17% (48,333 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (25,345 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