New Brunswick, NJ
Population 55,744 · New Jersey
About New Brunswick, NJ
New Brunswick is a mid-sized city located in New Jersey with a population of 55,744 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,248 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 24.5 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 New Brunswick features a median home value of $316,800, which is 29% above the national median of $244,900. This positions New Brunswick in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,790, 54% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 17,071 total housing units, 22% are owner-occupied (3,462 units) and 78% are renter-occupied (12,443 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 New Brunswick shows an unemployment rate of 6.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 31.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in New Brunswick have an average one-way commute time of 24.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.0% of New Brunswick 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 21.6% White, 9.1% Hispanic or Latino, 4.0% Black or African American, and 25.0% Asian residents, with 36.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How New Brunswick Ranks in New Jersey
Cost of Living in New Brunswick, NJ
Compared to national averages, New Brunswick has a median household income of $60,248 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $316,800, which is 29% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,790 is 54% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, New Brunswick's income is 48% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 33% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in New Brunswick, NJ?
New Brunswick offers short commute times averaging just 24.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,248) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, New Brunswick provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
New Brunswick has a population of 55,744 with a median age of 24.5 years. Compare New Brunswick with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near New Brunswick
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perth Amboy | 55,278 | $58,490 | $339,200 | Compare |
| Plainfield | 54,515 | $80,334 | $383,300 | Compare |
| Hoboken | 58,340 | $176,943 | $872,100 | Compare |
| West New York | 51,683 | $67,139 | $410,200 | Compare |
| Vineland | 60,692 | $65,854 | $218,200 | Compare |
| Hackensack | 45,768 | $82,212 | $370,300 | Compare |
| Sayreville | 45,237 | $98,629 | $407,600 | Compare |
| Union City | 66,375 | $65,369 | $446,800 | 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 New Brunswick With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about New Brunswick
What is the population of New Brunswick, NJ?
The population of New Brunswick, NJ is 55,744 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 New Brunswick?
The median household income in New Brunswick, NJ is $60,248 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in New Brunswick?
The median home value in New Brunswick, NJ is $316,800, which is 29% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in New Brunswick?
The median monthly rent in New Brunswick, NJ is $1,790, which is 54% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in New Brunswick?
The unemployment rate in New Brunswick, NJ is 6.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is New Brunswick, NJ a good place to live?
New Brunswick offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 55,744 and a median age of 24.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is New Brunswick, NJ?
24.0% of residents in New Brunswick 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 New Brunswick?
Key cost-of-living indicators for New Brunswick, NJ: median home value is $316,800 (29% above national), median rent is $1,790/month, and median household income is $60,248. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in New Brunswick?
The poverty rate in New Brunswick, NJ is 31.6%, 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 New Brunswick, NJ?
New Brunswick's population is 21.6% White, 9.1% Hispanic or Latino, 4.0% Black or African American, 25.0% Asian, and 11.9% two or more races. 36.5% of residents are foreign-born.