Avenel, NJ
Population 17,143 · New Jersey
About Avenel, NJ
Avenel is a mid-sized city located in New Jersey with a population of 17,143 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $95,935 per year, which is 28% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Avenel features a median home value of $351,200, which is 43% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Avenel in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,839, 58% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,693 total housing units, 50% are owner-occupied (2,799 units) and 50% are renter-occupied (2,830 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Avenel shows an unemployment rate of 5.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 8.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Avenel have an average one-way commute time of 34 minutes.
Education & Demographics
29.4% of Avenel residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.3% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.6% Black or African American, and 11.7% Asian residents, with 29.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Avenel, NJ
Compared to national averages, Avenel has a median household income of $95,935 (28% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $351,200, which is 43% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,839 is 58% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, Avenel's income is 17% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 25% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in Avenel, NJ?
Avenel offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $95,935, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 8.5%, better than the national average.
Avenel has a population of 17,143 with a median age of 39.3 years. Compare Avenel with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near Avenel
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Milford | 16,882 | $113,513 | $554,800 | Compare |
| Madison | 16,464 | $168,469 | $882,900 | Compare |
| North Arlington | 16,368 | $101,493 | $464,700 | Compare |
| Dumont | 18,072 | $125,585 | $469,900 | Compare |
| South River | 16,007 | $101,853 | $382,500 | Compare |
| Colonia | 18,294 | $134,301 | $473,200 | Compare |
| Dover | 18,420 | $70,519 | $347,100 | Compare |
| Preakness | 18,538 | $133,168 | $603,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New Jersey
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Avenel With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Avenel
What is the population of Avenel, NJ?
The population of Avenel, NJ is 17,143 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in New Jersey.
What is the median household income in Avenel?
The median household income in Avenel, NJ is $95,935 per year, which is 28% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Avenel?
The median home value in Avenel, NJ is $351,200, which is 43% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Avenel?
The median monthly rent in Avenel, NJ is $1,839, which is 58% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Avenel?
The unemployment rate in Avenel, NJ is 5.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Avenel, NJ a good place to live?
Avenel offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 17,143 and a median age of 39.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Avenel, NJ?
29.4% of residents in Avenel aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Avenel?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Avenel, NJ: median home value is $351,200 (43% above national), median rent is $1,839/month, and median household income is $95,935. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Avenel?
The poverty rate in Avenel, NJ is 8.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Avenel, NJ?
Avenel's population is 0.3% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.6% Black or African American, 11.7% Asian, and 25.5% two or more races. 29.4% of residents are foreign-born.