North Plainfield, NJ
Population 22,667 · New Jersey
About North Plainfield, NJ
North Plainfield is a mid-sized city located in New Jersey with a population of 22,667 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,529 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in North Plainfield features a median home value of $350,700, which is 43% above the national median of $244,900. This positions North Plainfield in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,651, 42% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 8,109 total housing units, 55% are owner-occupied (4,432 units) and 45% are renter-occupied (3,556 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in North Plainfield shows an unemployment rate of 9.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in North Plainfield have an average one-way commute time of 31.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.3% of North Plainfield 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 2.5% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 4.6% Black or African American, and 46.1% Asian residents, with 43.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How North Plainfield Ranks in New Jersey
Cost of Living in North Plainfield, NJ
Compared to national averages, North Plainfield has a median household income of $83,529 (11% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $350,700, which is 43% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,651 is 42% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, North Plainfield's income is 28% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 25% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in North Plainfield, NJ?
North Plainfield offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,529, well above the national average.
North Plainfield has a population of 22,667 with a median age of 36.9 years. Compare North Plainfield with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near North Plainfield
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summit | 22,512 | $199,107 | $969,900 | Compare |
| Roselle | 22,455 | $82,967 | $336,500 | Compare |
| Hillsborough | 22,302 | $142,275 | $411,400 | Compare |
| Glassboro | 23,375 | $80,388 | $276,900 | Compare |
| Parsippany | 21,869 | $102,152 | $540,800 | Compare |
| Lindenwold | 21,534 | $55,099 | $168,300 | Compare |
| Somerset | 23,851 | $113,603 | $408,600 | Compare |
| Secaucus | 21,437 | $134,746 | $557,800 | 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 North Plainfield With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about North Plainfield
What is the population of North Plainfield, NJ?
The population of North Plainfield, NJ is 22,667 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 North Plainfield?
The median household income in North Plainfield, NJ is $83,529 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in North Plainfield?
The median home value in North Plainfield, NJ is $350,700, which is 43% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in North Plainfield?
The median monthly rent in North Plainfield, NJ is $1,651, which is 42% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in North Plainfield?
The unemployment rate in North Plainfield, NJ is 9.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is North Plainfield, NJ a good place to live?
North Plainfield offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 22,667 and a median age of 36.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is North Plainfield, NJ?
25.3% of residents in North Plainfield 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 North Plainfield?
Key cost-of-living indicators for North Plainfield, NJ: median home value is $350,700 (43% above national), median rent is $1,651/month, and median household income is $83,529. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.2x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in North Plainfield?
The poverty rate in North Plainfield, NJ is 14.0%, 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 North Plainfield, NJ?
North Plainfield's population is 2.5% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 4.6% Black or African American, 46.1% Asian, and 20.0% two or more races. 43.2% of residents are foreign-born.