Harrison, NJ
Population 19,599 · New Jersey
About Harrison, NJ
Harrison is a mid-sized city located in New Jersey with a population of 19,599 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,290 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.8 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 Harrison features a median home value of $450,800, which is 84% above the national median of $244,900. This places Harrison in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $2,073, 78% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 9,625 total housing units, 19% are owner-occupied (1,697 units) and 81% are renter-occupied (7,294 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 Harrison shows an unemployment rate of 5.5%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 13.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Harrison have an average one-way commute time of 36.8 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
49.2% of Harrison residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 2.3% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 4.6% Black or African American, and 34.8% Asian residents, with 55.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Harrison, NJ
Compared to national averages, Harrison has a median household income of $82,290 (10% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $450,800, which is 84% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,073 is 78% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, Harrison's income is 29% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 4% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in Harrison, NJ?
Harrison offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,290, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 49.2% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $450,800. However, Harrison’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Harrison has a population of 19,599 with a median age of 33.8 years. Compare Harrison with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near Harrison
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawthorne | 19,472 | $118,093 | $499,200 | Compare |
| Tinton Falls | 19,252 | $113,844 | $458,300 | Compare |
| Point Pleasant | 19,158 | $108,713 | $523,400 | Compare |
| Iselin | 19,151 | $112,615 | $394,200 | Compare |
| Woodbridge | 20,086 | $99,718 | $361,200 | Compare |
| Palisades Park | 20,192 | $101,295 | $704,400 | Compare |
| Morristown | 20,256 | $115,409 | $552,800 | Compare |
| Rutherford | 18,748 | $136,069 | $580,800 | 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 Harrison With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Harrison
What is the population of Harrison, NJ?
The population of Harrison, NJ is 19,599 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 Harrison?
The median household income in Harrison, NJ is $82,290 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Harrison?
The median home value in Harrison, NJ is $450,800, which is 84% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Harrison?
The median monthly rent in Harrison, NJ is $2,073, which is 78% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Harrison?
The unemployment rate in Harrison, NJ is 5.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Harrison, NJ a good place to live?
Harrison offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 19,599 and a median age of 33.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Harrison, NJ?
49.2% of residents in Harrison aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Harrison?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Harrison, NJ: median home value is $450,800 (84% above national), median rent is $2,073/month, and median household income is $82,290. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Harrison?
The poverty rate in Harrison, NJ is 13.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Harrison, NJ?
Harrison's population is 2.3% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 4.6% Black or African American, 34.8% Asian, and 4.9% two or more races. 55.0% of residents are foreign-born.