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

Total population
579,290
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$103,202/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
212,385
0.5% year-over-year change

Union County population

How many people live in Union County

Union County is home to 579,290 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Union County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
579,290
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
286,193
Female
50.6%
293,097
Value Percent YoY change
Male 286,193 49.4% 1.4%
Female 293,097 50.6% 1.0%
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 Union County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.4% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.6% of the population, while another 26.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.4%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
26.6%
45 to 64
26.5%
Over 65
15.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 112,376 19.4% 0.9%
15 to 24 71,922 12.4% 1.9%
25 to 44 154,098 26.6% 1.7%
45 to 64 153,617 26.5% -0.3%
Over 65 87,277 15.1% 2.9%
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 Union County, 63.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 16.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 39.4% of locals are Caucasian, 19.9% are African American and 5.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
63.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19.8%
Non-citizens
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 368,070 63.5% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 114,972 19.8% 1.7%
Non-citizens 96,248 16.6% 5.1%
Racial breakdown
White
39.4%
Black or African American
19.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
5.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.1%
Other
20.4%
Value Percent
White 228,008 39.4%
Black or African American 115,397 19.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,233 0.6%
Asian 32,637 5.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 96 0%
Two or more races 81,706 14.1%
Other 118,213 20.4%

Households in Union County

A peek inside Union County households

Union County has 203,277 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.9% are families, while the remaining 28.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
203,277
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
57,066
Family households
146,211
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 57,066 28.1% 2.7%
Family households 146,211 71.9% 0.1%
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 Union County

The housing landscape of Union County

Union County's housing consists of 212,385 units, with 49.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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
212,385
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 105,660 49.8%
1 unit, attached 10,298 4.8%
2 units 35,466 16.7%
3 or 4 units 17,180 8.1%
5 to 9 units 7,544 3.6%
10 to 19 units 7,770 3.7%
20 to 49 units 11,510 5.4%
50 or more units 16,367 7.7%
Mobile home 326 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 264 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,226
42.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Union County

In Union County, the median construction year is 1956. About 23.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.3% 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, 5.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 49,984 23.5% -1.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 26,170 12.3% -0.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 46,767 22% -1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 26,494 12.5% -2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 16,802 7.9% 1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,645 5% 0.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,513 4% -2.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 12,541 5.9% 7.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 12,243 5.8% 15.4%
Built in 2020 or later 2,226 1% 42.6%
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.

Union County occupancy rates

Out of the 203,277 occupied housing units in Union County, 57.4% are owner-occupied, while 42.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
203,277
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
86,672
Owner occupied
116,605
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 86,672 42.6% 1.4%
Owner occupied 116,605 57.4% 0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
4.3%
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.

Union County housing costs

Housing costs in Union County come to a median of $2,086 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,730.

Median housing costs per month
$2,086/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 Union County
$1,730/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 Union County

Union County education at a glance

About 33.2% of the population in Union County went to high school, while 17.4% pursued college studies. Another 5.7% earned an associate degree and 22.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 31,845 7.2% -2.6%
High school diploma 146,854 33.2% 1.0%
College diploma 77,289 17.4% 0.3%
Associate degree 25,378 5.7% 4.1%
Bachelor's degree 98,543 22.2% 2.0%
Graduate degree 63,121 14.2% 2.5%
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 Union County

How much people earn in Union County

The average annual household income in Union County was $149,595 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $103,202, reflecting a +3.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Union County
$149,595/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Union County
$103,202/year
3.1% year-over-year change

Union County income by age

In Union County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $107,655. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $125,131 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $66,311, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $72,306 in earnings. Overall, 90.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $66,311 5.1%
25 - 44 $107,655 6.7%
45 - 64 $125,131 3.4%
Over 65 $72,306 1.6%
Above poverty level
515,040
Below poverty level
51,873
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 515,040 90.8% 0.9%
Below poverty level 51,873 9.2% 3.7%

Employment in Union County

Workforce and job types in Union County

The job market in Union County is powered by 296,920 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 71.1% are employed by private companies, and 13.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
296,920
1.3% year-over-year change
White collar
227,078
Blue collar
69,842
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 227,078 76.5% 1.7%
Blue collar 69,842 23.5% -0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
71.1%
Governmental workers
13.9%
Not for profit companies
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 24,829 8.4% 6.0%
Private companies 211,240 71.1% 0.7%
Governmental workers 41,367 13.9% 0.1%
Not for profit companies 19,484 6.6% 4.8%
Unemployment rate
6.5%
4.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Union County stands at 6.5%, 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 Union County

How people get around in Union County

In Union County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 69.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% 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
-1.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 202,655 69.9% 0.1%
Taxicab 2,635 0.9% 16.4%
Bus or trolleybus 13,454 4.6% 3.5%
Subway or elevated 3,099 1.1% N/A
Railroad 9,184 3.2% -10.4%
Ferryboat 51 0% -59.8%
Motorcycle 189 0.1% 96.9%
Bicycle 584 0.2% 16.1%
Walk 6,834 2.4% 1.0%
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 Union County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
07016 24,074 9,426 $155,972 $203,986
07023 7,799 2,835 $195,529 $198,434
07027 4,885 2,129 $110,670 $143,718
07033 8,401 2,842 $118,611 $161,119
07036 45,671 16,239 $91,882 $115,184
07060 48,363 14,951 $78,602 $100,081
07062 15,399 4,843 $98,344 $120,766
07063 14,235 3,931 $93,304 $106,796
07065 30,109 12,257 $91,461 $104,551
07066 15,622 5,929 $133,504 $152,086

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FAQs about Union County demographics 

What is the total population of Union County?

Union County has a total population of 579,290 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 Union County?

The gender ratio in Union County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (286,193 residents)
  • 50.6% females (293,097 residents)

What is the median age in Union County?

The median age in Union County is 39.1.

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

The age distribution in Union County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.4% (112,376 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (71,922 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.6% (154,098 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.5% (153,617 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.1% (87,277 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Union County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Union County is as follows:
  • White: 39.4% (228,008 residents)
  • Black or African American: 19.9% (115,397 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (3,233 residents)
  • Asian: 5.6% (32,637 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (96 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.1% (81,706 residents)
  • Other: 20.4% (118,213 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 63.5% of the population in Union County.

How many housing units are there in Union County?

There are 212,385 housing units in Union County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Union County has a total of 203,277 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Union County?

Union County has a median household income of $103,202, representing a +3.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.5% in Union County, with a workforce of 296,920 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.5% (227,078 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.5% (69,842 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (24,829 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.1% (211,240 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.9% (41,367 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.6% (19,484 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