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

Total population
65,275
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,960/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
27,732
-0.0% year-over-year change

Salem County population

How many people live in Salem County

Salem County is home to 65,275 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Salem County locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
65,275
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
32,075
Female
50.9%
33,200
Value Percent YoY change
Male 32,075 49.1% 0.6%
Female 33,200 50.9% 0.3%
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 Salem County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.1% are children under 15, then 11.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.1%
15 to 24
11.6%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,786 18.1% 0.6%
15 to 24 7,549 11.6% -4.4%
25 to 44 16,096 24.7% 4.4%
45 to 64 17,385 26.6% -1.5%
Over 65 12,459 19.1% 1.3%
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 Salem County, 94.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 72.6% of locals are Caucasian, 14.7% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 61,825 94.7% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,654 4.1% -5.7%
Non-citizens 796 1.2% -1.0%
Racial breakdown
White
72.6%
Black or African American
14.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 47,420 72.6%
Black or African American 9,595 14.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 122 0.2%
Asian 632 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 74 0.1%
Two or more races 4,548 7%
Other 2,884 4.4%

Households in Salem County

A peek inside Salem County households

Salem County has 24,846 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63.7% are families, while the remaining 36.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
24,846
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
9,019
Family households
15,827
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,019 36.3% 0.8%
Family households 15,827 63.7% -0.7%
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 Salem County

The housing landscape of Salem County

Salem County's housing consists of 27,732 units, with 74.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.3% 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 3.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
27,732
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 20,630 74.4%
1 unit, attached 1,474 5.3%
2 units 900 3.2%
3 or 4 units 1,199 4.3%
5 to 9 units 416 1.5%
10 to 19 units 949 3.4%
20 to 49 units 254 0.9%
50 or more units 992 3.6%
Mobile home 918 3.3%
Homes built since 2020
106
73.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Salem County

In Salem County, the median construction year is 1962. About 21.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,048 21.8% 4.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,289 8.2% 6.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,794 17.3% 2.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,560 12.8% 0.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,155 15% -0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,034 7.3% -16.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,059 7.4% -11.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,918 6.9% 4.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 769 2.8% 4.2%
Built in 2020 or later 106 0.4% 73.8%
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.

Salem County occupancy rates

Out of the 24,846 occupied housing units in Salem County, 71% are owner-occupied, while 29% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
24,846
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,211
Owner occupied
17,635
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,211 29% 0.9%
Owner occupied 17,635 71% -0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
10.4%
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.

Salem County housing costs

Housing costs in Salem County come to a median of $1,440 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,253.

Median housing costs per month
$1,440/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 Salem County
$1,253/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 Salem County

Salem County education at a glance

About 45.4% of the population in Salem County went to high school, while 18.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 16.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,581 3.1% -7.0%
High school diploma 23,157 45.4% 0.9%
College diploma 9,427 18.5% -2.6%
Associate degree 4,713 9.2% -2.1%
Bachelor's degree 8,250 16.2% 6.6%
Graduate degree 3,833 7.5% -0.9%
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 Salem County

How much people earn in Salem County

The average annual household income in Salem County was $101,600 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $79,960, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Salem County
$101,600/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Salem County
$79,960/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Salem County income by age

In Salem County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,313. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,470 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,813, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $63,927 in earnings. Overall, 87.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,813 15.4%
25 - 44 $86,313 6.4%
45 - 64 $100,470 2.5%
Over 65 $63,927 2.1%
Above poverty level
55,383
Below poverty level
7,949
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 55,383 87.4% 0.4%
Below poverty level 7,949 12.6% 0.5%

Employment in Salem County

Workforce and job types in Salem County

The job market in Salem County is powered by 29,416 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 65.9% are employed by private companies, and 17.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
29,416
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
21,880
Blue collar
7,536
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,880 74.4% 0.2%
Blue collar 7,536 25.6% -1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
65.9%
Governmental workers
17.3%
Not for profit companies
9.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,168 7.4% 2.2%
Private companies 19,397 65.9% -1.6%
Governmental workers 5,097 17.3% -2.2%
Not for profit companies 2,754 9.4% 13.3%
Unemployment rate
7.4%
-1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Salem County stands at 7.4%, 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 Salem County

How people get around in Salem County

Commuting methods vary: 86.9% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 25,019 86.9% 0.5%
Taxicab 19 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 166 0.6% 3.8%
Subway or elevated 9 0% N/A
Railroad 5 0% 25.0%
Ferryboat 13 0% N/A
Motorcycle 15 0% 25.0%
Bicycle 12 0% 9.1%
Walk 394 1.4% -15.8%
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 Salem County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
08067 1,711 548 $111,912 $147,074
08069 13,413 5,079 $71,942 $79,169
08001 854 326 $134,583 $112,005
08023 375 146 $65,944 $65,201
08038 351 153 $90,179 $80,961
08098 9,680 3,336 $110,913 $135,768
08070 12,511 5,179 $75,697 $96,904
08072 164 79 $68,203 $87,072
08318 11,961 4,264 $92,558 $114,864
08079 10,762 4,478 $54,641 $83,035

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Salem County demographics 

What is the total population of Salem County?

Salem County has a total population of 65,275 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 Salem County?

The gender ratio in Salem County is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (32,075 residents)
  • 50.9% females (33,200 residents)

What is the median age in Salem County?

The median age in Salem County is 41.9.

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

The age distribution in Salem County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.1% (11,786 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.6% (7,549 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (16,096 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (17,385 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (12,459 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Salem County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Salem County is as follows:
  • White: 72.6% (47,420 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14.7% (9,595 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (122 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (632 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (74 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (4,548 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (2,884 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.7% of the population in Salem County.

How many housing units are there in Salem County?

There are 27,732 housing units in Salem County, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Salem County has a total of 24,846 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Salem County?

Salem County has a median household income of $79,960, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.6% in Salem County, with a workforce of 29,416 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.4% (21,880 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.6% (7,536 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (2,168 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.9% (19,397 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.3% (5,097 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.4% (2,754 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