Buena, NJ
Population 4,500 · New Jersey
About Buena, NJ
Buena is a small town located in New Jersey with a population of 4,500 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $78,393 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.6 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Buena features a median home value of $249,100, which is 2% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Buena in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,138, 2% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,757 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (1,106 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (527 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Buena shows an unemployment rate of 12.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 6.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Buena have an average one-way commute time of 30 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.4% of Buena residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 9.5% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 19.2% Black or African American, and 1.8% Asian residents, with 14.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Buena Ranks in New Jersey
Cost of Living in Buena, NJ
Compared to national averages, Buena has a median household income of $78,393 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $249,100, which is 2% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,138 is 2% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, Buena's income is 32% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 47% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in Buena, NJ?
Buena offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,393, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,138/month, and a low poverty rate of 6.0%, better than the national average.
Buena has a population of 4,500 with a median age of 33.6 years. Compare Buena with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near Buena
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Landing | 4,499 | $125,407 | $382,300 | Compare |
| McGuire AFB | 4,491 | $79,423 | $0 | Compare |
| Beattystown | 4,479 | $105,179 | $367,800 | Compare |
| Mountain Lakes | 4,535 | $250,001 | $915,100 | Compare |
| Barclay | 4,456 | $162,241 | $438,400 | Compare |
| Mullica Hill | 4,561 | $133,750 | $427,500 | Compare |
| Highlands | 4,575 | $90,082 | $394,800 | Compare |
| Atlantic Highlands | 4,409 | $125,438 | $615,300 | 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 Buena With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Buena
What is the population of Buena, NJ?
The population of Buena, NJ is 4,500 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in New Jersey.
What is the median household income in Buena?
The median household income in Buena, NJ is $78,393 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Buena?
The median home value in Buena, NJ is $249,100, which is 2% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Buena?
The median monthly rent in Buena, NJ is $1,138, which is 2% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Buena?
The unemployment rate in Buena, NJ is 12.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Buena, NJ a good place to live?
Buena offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,500 and a median age of 33.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Buena, NJ?
21.4% of residents in Buena 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 Buena?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Buena, NJ: median home value is $249,100 (2% above national), median rent is $1,138/month, and median household income is $78,393. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Buena?
The poverty rate in Buena, NJ is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Buena, NJ?
Buena's population is 9.5% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 19.2% Black or African American, 1.8% Asian, and 3.0% two or more races. 14.5% of residents are foreign-born.