Trenton, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
90,338
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,537/yr
11.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
34,513
-3.8% year-over-year change

Trenton population

How many people live in Trenton

Trenton is home to 90,338 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Trenton locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
90,338
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
45,050
Female
50.1%
45,288
Value Percent YoY change
Male 45,050 49.9% 2.7%
Female 45,288 50.1% -1.8%
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 Trenton is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.1% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.6% of the population, while another 24.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.1%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
27.6%
45 to 64
24.4%
Over 65
12%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 21,733 24.1% 2.7%
15 to 24 10,755 11.9% 10.3%
25 to 44 24,940 27.6% -2.4%
45 to 64 22,079 24.4% -1.7%
Over 65 10,831 12% -1.9%
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 Trenton, 62.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 16% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 21.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 14.2% of locals are Caucasian, 41.3% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 13.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
62.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
16%
Non-citizens
21.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 56,060 62.1% -2.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 14,498 16% 2.0%
Non-citizens 19,780 21.9% 8.1%
Racial breakdown
White
14.2%
Black or African American
41.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
4.1%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
13.1%
Other
26.9%
Value Percent
White 12,860 14.2%
Black or African American 37,296 41.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,685 4.1%
Asian 386 0.4%
Two or more races 11,803 13.1%
Other 24,308 26.9%

Households in Trenton

A peek inside Trenton households

Trenton has 32,052 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 58.2% are families, while the remaining 41.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
32,052
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
13,399
Family households
18,653
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 13,399 41.8% -2.1%
Family households 18,653 58.2% 1.3%
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 Trenton

The housing landscape of Trenton

Trenton's housing consists of 34,513 units, with 16.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 43.4% 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
34,513
-3.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,588 16.2%
1 unit, attached 14,968 43.4%
2 units 2,957 8.6%
3 or 4 units 2,126 6.2%
5 to 9 units 1,792 5.2%
10 to 19 units 1,491 4.3%
20 to 49 units 982 2.8%
50 or more units 4,526 13.1%
Mobile home 83 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
256
66.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Trenton

In Trenton, the median construction year is 1953. About 38.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 13,155 38.1% -10.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,366 6.9% -28.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,194 15% -5.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,491 10.1% 0.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,178 9.2% 10.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,877 5.4% 7.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,570 4.6% 12.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,041 5.9% 39.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,385 4% 5.5%
Built in 2020 or later 256 0.7% 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.

Trenton occupancy rates

Out of the 32,052 occupied housing units in Trenton, 37.9% are owner-occupied, while 62.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
32,052
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
19,900
Owner occupied
12,152
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 19,900 62.1% -3.2%
Owner occupied 12,152 37.9% 5.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.1%
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.

Trenton housing costs

Housing costs in Trenton come to a median of $1,281 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,294.

Median housing costs per month
$1,281/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 Trenton
$1,294/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 Trenton

Trenton education at a glance

About 50.6% of the population in Trenton went to high school, while 17.3% pursued college studies. Another 4.6% earned an associate degree and 10.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 8,025 12.3% -1.0%
High school diploma 33,000 50.6% 0.8%
College diploma 11,316 17.3% -4.3%
Associate degree 3,012 4.6% -3.5%
Bachelor's degree 7,022 10.8% -3.9%
Graduate degree 2,878 4.4% -1.5%
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 Trenton

How much people earn in Trenton

The average annual household income in Trenton was $77,515 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,537, reflecting a +11.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Trenton
$77,515/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Trenton
$52,537/year
11.5% year-over-year change

Trenton income by age

In Trenton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,727. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $63,522 overall. Overall, 78.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $53,727 11.5%
45 - 64 $63,522 -3.5%
Over 65 $35,797 11.9%
Above poverty level
67,329
Below poverty level
18,612
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 67,329 78.3% 4.1%
Below poverty level 18,612 21.7% -12.1%

Average renter income in Trenton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Trenton, their median household income was $31,593 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 49.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$31,593
Rent-to-income ratio
49.2%
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 Trenton

Workforce and job types in Trenton

The job market in Trenton is powered by 37,007 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 67.8% are employed by private companies, and 16.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
37,007
2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
25,315
Blue collar
11,692
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 25,315 68.4% 1.9%
Blue collar 11,692 31.6% 2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
67.8%
Governmental workers
16.5%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,549 9.6% 6.8%
Private companies 25,071 67.8% 3.6%
Governmental workers 6,111 16.5% -1.0%
Not for profit companies 2,276 6.2% -11.2%
Unemployment rate
10.1%
-1.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Trenton stands at 10.1%, 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 Trenton

How people get around in Trenton

In Trenton, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 73.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 26,121 73.6% -1.7%
Taxicab 888 2.5% 36.2%
Bus or trolleybus 1,497 4.2% -16.0%
Subway or elevated 141 0.4% N/A
Railroad 526 1.5% -4.9%
Motorcycle 129 0.4% 48.3%
Bicycle 127 0.4% -20.6%
Walk 1,399 3.9% -9.3%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Trenton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
08608 1,250 653 $61,201 $59,302
08609 15,938 4,880 $68,238 $122,026
08611 31,995 10,716 $56,788 $73,082
08618 35,634 13,477 $50,390 $74,542
08629 13,013 4,296 $82,646 $94,502
08638 22,816 9,045 $66,875 $84,869

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FAQs about Trenton demographics 

What is the total population of Trenton?

Trenton has a total population of 90,338 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Trenton?

The gender ratio in Trenton is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (45,050 residents)
  • 50.1% females (45,288 residents)

What is the median age in Trenton?

The median age in Trenton is 34.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Trenton?

The age distribution in Trenton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.1% (21,733 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (10,755 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.6% (24,940 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.4% (22,079 residents)
  • Over 65: 12% (10,831 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Trenton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Trenton is as follows:
  • White: 14.2% (12,860 residents)
  • Black or African American: 41.3% (37,296 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 4.1% (3,685 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (386 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.1% (11,803 residents)
  • Other: 26.9% (24,308 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 62.1% of the population in Trenton.

How many housing units are there in Trenton?

There are 34,513 housing units in Trenton, reflecting a -3.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Trenton has a total of 32,052 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Trenton?

Trenton has a median household income of $52,537, representing a +11.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 89.9% in Trenton, with a workforce of 37,007 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.4% (25,315 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.6% (11,692 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (3,549 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.8% (25,071 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.5% (6,111 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (2,276 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