Jersey City, NJ
Population 289,691 · New Jersey
About Jersey City, NJ
Jersey City is a major city located in New Jersey with a population of 289,691 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $94,813 per year, which is 26% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.7 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 Jersey City features a median home value of $534,500, which is 118% above the national median of $244,900. This places Jersey City in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,902, 64% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 132,636 total housing units, 29% are owner-occupied (35,447 units) and 71% are renter-occupied (87,685 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 Jersey City shows an unemployment rate of 5.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Jersey City have an average one-way commute time of 36.9 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
53.1% of Jersey City 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 1.5% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.3% Black or African American, and 15.1% Asian residents, with 41.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How Jersey City Ranks in New Jersey
Cost of Living in Jersey City, NJ
Compared to national averages, Jersey City has a median household income of $94,813 (26% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $534,500, which is 118% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,902 is 64% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, Jersey City's income is 18% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 14% above the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in Jersey City, NJ?
Jersey City offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $94,813, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 53.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $534,500. However, as a major city, Jersey City provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Jersey City has a population of 289,691 with a median age of 34.7 years. Compare Jersey City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near Jersey City
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newark | 307,188 | $48,416 | $337,800 | Compare |
| Paterson | 157,660 | $53,766 | $335,400 | Compare |
| Elizabeth | 135,887 | $63,874 | $393,500 | Compare |
| Toms River | 93,915 | $95,759 | $377,800 | Compare |
| Trenton | 89,966 | $47,102 | $122,500 | Compare |
| Clifton | 89,247 | $99,003 | $444,300 | Compare |
| Camden | 71,471 | $40,450 | $100,400 | Compare |
| Bayonne | 70,468 | $81,285 | $446,100 | 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 Jersey City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Jersey City
What is the population of Jersey City, NJ?
The population of Jersey City, NJ is 289,691 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in New Jersey.
What is the median household income in Jersey City?
The median household income in Jersey City, NJ is $94,813 per year, which is 26% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Jersey City?
The median home value in Jersey City, NJ is $534,500, which is 118% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Jersey City?
The median monthly rent in Jersey City, NJ is $1,902, which is 64% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Jersey City?
The unemployment rate in Jersey City, NJ is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Jersey City, NJ a good place to live?
Jersey City offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 289,691 and a median age of 34.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Jersey City, NJ?
53.1% of residents in Jersey City 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 Jersey City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Jersey City, NJ: median home value is $534,500 (118% above national), median rent is $1,902/month, and median household income is $94,813. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Jersey City?
The poverty rate in Jersey City, NJ is 15.6%, 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 Jersey City, NJ?
Jersey City's population is 1.5% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.3% Black or African American, 15.1% Asian, and 19.8% two or more races. 41.2% of residents are foreign-born.