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

Total population
521,012
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$87,522/yr
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
185,816
0.2% year-over-year change

Passaic County population

How many people live in Passaic County

Passaic County is home to 521,012 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Passaic County locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
521,012
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
255,902
Female
50.9%
265,110
Value Percent YoY change
Male 255,902 49.1% 0.5%
Female 265,110 50.9% 0.5%
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 Passaic County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26% of the population, while another 25.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
26%
45 to 64
25.2%
Over 65
15.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 101,984 19.6% 0.1%
15 to 24 69,568 13.4% 0.5%
25 to 44 135,546 26% 0.8%
45 to 64 131,282 25.2% -0.9%
Over 65 82,632 15.9% 2.8%
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 Passaic County, 63.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 21.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 15% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 41.3% of locals are Caucasian, 10.2% are African American and 5.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 23.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
63.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
21.7%
Non-citizens
15%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 329,692 63.3% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 113,144 21.7% 0.2%
Non-citizens 78,176 15% 3.1%
Racial breakdown
White
41.3%
Black or African American
10.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
5.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
23.8%
Other
18.7%
Value Percent
White 215,130 41.3%
Black or African American 53,332 10.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,084 0.4%
Asian 28,629 5.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 196 0%
Two or more races 124,121 23.8%
Other 97,520 18.7%

Households in Passaic County

A peek inside Passaic County households

Passaic County has 178,936 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.6% are families, while the remaining 28.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
178,936
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
50,769
Family households
128,167
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 50,769 28.4% 0.7%
Family households 128,167 71.6% 0.5%
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 Passaic County

The housing landscape of Passaic County

Passaic County's housing consists of 185,816 units, with 41.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.2% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
185,816
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 77,305 41.6%
1 unit, attached 11,579 6.2%
2 units 38,651 20.8%
3 or 4 units 18,464 9.9%
5 to 9 units 11,363 6.1%
10 to 19 units 7,658 4.1%
20 to 49 units 7,161 3.8%
50 or more units 13,177 7.1%
Mobile home 397 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 61 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,066
42.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Passaic County

In Passaic County, the median construction year is 1956. About 28.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 53,543 28.8% 2.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 19,935 10.7% -4.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 32,086 17.3% -1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 23,082 12.4% -1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 15,102 8.1% -7.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 14,066 7.6% 6.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,675 5.2% -3.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 10,360 5.6% 0.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,901 3.7% 15.7%
Built in 2020 or later 1,066 0.6% 42.7%
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.

Passaic County occupancy rates

Out of the 178,936 occupied housing units in Passaic County, 53.1% are owner-occupied, while 46.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
178,936
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
83,966
Owner occupied
94,970
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 83,966 46.9% 0.0%
Owner occupied 94,970 53.1% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
3.7%
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.

Passaic County housing costs

Housing costs in Passaic County come to a median of $1,855 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,621.

Median housing costs per month
$1,855/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 Passaic County
$1,621/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 Passaic County

Passaic County education at a glance

About 39.7% of the population in Passaic County went to high school, while 18.1% pursued college studies. Another 5.7% earned an associate degree and 19.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 31,222 7.8% 2.8%
High school diploma 158,068 39.7% -1.9%
College diploma 71,887 18.1% 0.5%
Associate degree 22,530 5.7% 7.8%
Bachelor's degree 76,632 19.3% 1.4%
Graduate degree 37,532 9.4% 4.4%
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 Passaic County

How much people earn in Passaic County

The average annual household income in Passaic County was $117,469 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $87,522, reflecting a +0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Passaic County
$117,469/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Passaic County
$87,522/year
0.4% year-over-year change

Passaic County income by age

In Passaic County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $89,618. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $105,537 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,583, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $67,066 in earnings. Overall, 87.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,583 8.6%
25 - 44 $89,618 0.9%
45 - 64 $105,537 2.1%
Over 65 $67,066 2.0%
Above poverty level
442,107
Below poverty level
65,644
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 442,107 87.1% 1.3%
Below poverty level 65,644 12.9% -4.4%

Employment in Passaic County

Workforce and job types in Passaic County

The job market in Passaic County is powered by 251,016 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.1% run their own businesses, 72.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
251,016
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
189,171
Blue collar
61,845
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 189,171 75.4% 1.0%
Blue collar 61,845 24.6% -3.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
72.2%
Governmental workers
12.5%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 22,894 9.1% 2.0%
Private companies 181,213 72.2% -1.3%
Governmental workers 31,422 12.5% 4.0%
Not for profit companies 15,487 6.2% 3.7%
Unemployment rate
8.0%
3.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Passaic County stands at 8%, 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 Passaic County

How people get around in Passaic County

In Passaic County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-2.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 186,954 76.5% -1.3%
Taxicab 1,568 0.6% 15.0%
Bus or trolleybus 13,546 5.5% -6.6%
Subway or elevated 369 0.2% N/A
Railroad 1,489 0.6% -26.1%
Ferryboat 23 0% 91.7%
Motorcycle 6 0% -88.0%
Bicycle 418 0.2% 34.4%
Walk 9,850 4% 1.8%
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 Passaic County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
07420 5,316 1,866 $109,278 $113,898
07011 38,587 13,771 $74,194 $94,396
07012 14,653 5,595 $101,737 $139,204
07013 30,811 12,193 $116,273 $153,353
07014 4,975 1,916 $119,545 $154,919
07421 6,977 2,780 $129,800 $176,114
07424 28,085 10,913 $105,050 $131,335
07055 70,002 21,151 $55,371 $78,683
07435 2,703 1,181 $145,342 $173,762
07403 7,685 2,867 $128,010 $158,323

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FAQs about Passaic County demographics 

What is the total population of Passaic County?

Passaic County has a total population of 521,012 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Passaic County?

The gender ratio in Passaic County is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (255,902 residents)
  • 50.9% females (265,110 residents)

What is the median age in Passaic County?

The median age in Passaic County is 38.1.

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

The age distribution in Passaic County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (101,984 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (69,568 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26% (135,546 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.2% (131,282 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.9% (82,632 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Passaic County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Passaic County is as follows:
  • White: 41.3% (215,130 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.2% (53,332 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (2,084 residents)
  • Asian: 5.5% (28,629 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (196 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 23.8% (124,121 residents)
  • Other: 18.7% (97,520 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 63.3% of the population in Passaic County.

How many housing units are there in Passaic County?

There are 185,816 housing units in Passaic County, 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 Passaic County and what is the average household size?

Passaic County has a total of 178,936 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Passaic County?

Passaic County has a median household income of $87,522, representing a +0.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92% in Passaic County, with a workforce of 251,016 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.4% (189,171 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.6% (61,845 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (22,894 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.2% (181,213 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.5% (31,422 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (15,487 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