Somerset, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
22,720
-4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$121,028/yr
6.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,750
-2.9% year-over-year change

Somerset population

How many people live in Somerset

Somerset is home to 22,720 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Somerset locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
22,720
-4.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
11,264
Female
50.4%
11,456
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,264 49.6% -2.9%
Female 11,456 50.4% -6.5%
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 Somerset is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.7% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.9% of the population, while another 27.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.7%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
28.9%
45 to 64
27.5%
Over 65
17.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,331 14.7% -8.6%
15 to 24 2,679 11.8% -5.1%
25 to 44 6,557 28.9% -3.8%
45 to 64 6,248 27.5% -2.5%
Over 65 3,905 17.2% -6.2%
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 Somerset, 68.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 21.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 35.7% of locals are Caucasian, 28.7% are African American and 23.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
68.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
21.2%
Non-citizens
10.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,594 68.6% -7.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,817 21.2% 0.5%
Non-citizens 2,309 10.2% 6.1%
Racial breakdown
White
35.7%
Black or African American
28.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
23.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.9%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 8,120 35.7%
Black or African American 6,522 28.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 16 0.1%
Asian 5,269 23.2%
Two or more races 1,803 7.9%
Other 990 4.4%

Households in Somerset

A peek inside Somerset households

Somerset has 9,492 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.6% are families, while the remaining 39.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,492
-2.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,736
Family households
5,756
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,736 39.4% -3.2%
Family households 5,756 60.6% -2.4%
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 Somerset

The housing landscape of Somerset

Somerset's housing consists of 9,750 units, with 48.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 25.6% 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
9,750
-2.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,690 48.1%
1 unit, attached 2,498 25.6%
2 units 160 1.6%
3 or 4 units 100 1%
5 to 9 units 469 4.8%
10 to 19 units 791 8.1%
20 to 49 units 165 1.7%
50 or more units 862 8.8%
Mobile home 15 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
37
19.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Somerset

In Somerset, the median construction year is 1980. About 2.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2% 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 247 2.5% 157.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 161 1.6% 33.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 717 7.4% -20.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,488 25.5% 0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,199 12.3% -6.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,563 36.5% -1.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 691 7.1% -10.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 449 4.6% -3.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 198 2% -33.3%
Built in 2020 or later 37 0.4% 19.4%
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.

Somerset occupancy rates

Out of the 9,492 occupied housing units in Somerset, 72.9% are owner-occupied, while 27.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,492
-2.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,570
Owner occupied
6,922
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,570 27.1% -2.3%
Owner occupied 6,922 72.9% -2.9%
Unoccupied housing units
2.6%
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.

Somerset housing costs

Housing costs in Somerset come to a median of $2,143 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,121.

Median housing costs per month
$2,143/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 Somerset
$2,121/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 Somerset

Somerset education at a glance

About 18.5% of the population in Somerset went to high school, while 14.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.1% earned an associate degree and 33.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 24.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 280 1.5% 6.1%
High school diploma 3,421 18.5% -7.6%
College diploma 2,754 14.9% -9.0%
Associate degree 1,305 7.1% -25.1%
Bachelor's degree 6,257 33.8% 3.8%
Graduate degree 4,475 24.2% 0.5%
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 Somerset

How much people earn in Somerset

The average annual household income in Somerset was $143,976 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $121,028, reflecting a +6.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Somerset
$143,976/year
4.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Somerset
$121,028/year
6.5% year-over-year change

Somerset income by age

In Somerset, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $126,860. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $136,104 overall. Overall, 95.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $126,860 3.1%
45 - 64 $136,104 2.3%
Over 65 $88,056 10.1%
Above poverty level
21,118
Below poverty level
1,002
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 21,118 95.5% -2.7%
Below poverty level 1,002 4.5% -29.7%

Average renter income in Somerset

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Somerset, their median household income was $78,699 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
$78,699
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 Somerset

Workforce and job types in Somerset

The job market in Somerset is powered by 12,925 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 68.4% are employed by private companies, and 15.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,925
-3.6% year-over-year change
White collar
11,256
Blue collar
1,669
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,256 87.1% -2.8%
Blue collar 1,669 12.9% -9.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
68.4%
Governmental workers
15.3%
Not for profit companies
9.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 853 6.6% 26.4%
Private companies 8,841 68.4% -4.0%
Governmental workers 1,976 15.3% -4.1%
Not for profit companies 1,255 9.7% -14.6%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-4.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Somerset stands at 3.8%, 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 Somerset

How people get around in Somerset

Commuting methods vary: 71.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% 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 9,203 71.6% -8.2%
Bus or trolleybus 18 0.1% -62.5%
Subway or elevated 437 3.4% N/A
Railroad 397 3.1% 1.3%
Walk 127 1% 69.3%
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.

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FAQs about Somerset demographics 

What is the total population of Somerset?

Somerset has a total population of 22,720 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 -4.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Somerset?

The gender ratio in Somerset is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (11,264 residents)
  • 50.4% females (11,456 residents)

What is the median age in Somerset?

The median age in Somerset is 41.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Somerset?

The age distribution in Somerset is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.7% (3,331 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (2,679 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.9% (6,557 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.5% (6,248 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.2% (3,905 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Somerset?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Somerset is as follows:
  • White: 35.7% (8,120 residents)
  • Black or African American: 28.7% (6,522 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (16 residents)
  • Asian: 23.2% (5,269 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.9% (1,803 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (990 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 68.6% of the population in Somerset.

How many housing units are there in Somerset?

There are 9,750 housing units in Somerset, reflecting a -2.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Somerset has a total of 9,492 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Somerset?

Somerset has a median household income of $121,028, representing a +6.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Somerset, with a workforce of 12,925 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.1% (11,256 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.9% (1,669 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (853 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.4% (8,841 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.3% (1,976 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.7% (1,255 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