Paterson, NJ
Population 157,660 · New Jersey
About Paterson, NJ
Paterson is a major city located in New Jersey with a population of 157,660 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,766 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.3 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 Paterson features a median home value of $335,400, which is 37% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Paterson in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,457, 25% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 52,532 total housing units, 26% are owner-occupied (13,027 units) and 74% are renter-occupied (36,661 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 Paterson shows an unemployment rate of 10.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Paterson have an average one-way commute time of 23.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.5% of Paterson 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 4.8% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 9.2% Black or African American, and 48.5% Asian residents, with 44.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Paterson Ranks in New Jersey
Cost of Living in Paterson, NJ
Compared to national averages, Paterson has a median household income of $53,766 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $335,400, which is 37% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,457 is 25% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, Paterson's income is 54% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 29% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in Paterson, NJ?
Paterson offers short commute times averaging just 23.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,766) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Paterson provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Paterson has a population of 157,660 with a median age of 33.3 years. Compare Paterson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near Paterson
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Lakewood | 69,884 | $57,576 | $618,400 | Compare |
| Passaic | 69,651 | $56,780 | $406,500 | 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 Paterson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Paterson
What is the population of Paterson, NJ?
The population of Paterson, NJ is 157,660 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 Paterson?
The median household income in Paterson, NJ is $53,766 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Paterson?
The median home value in Paterson, NJ is $335,400, which is 37% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Paterson?
The median monthly rent in Paterson, NJ is $1,457, which is 25% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Paterson?
The unemployment rate in Paterson, NJ is 10.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Paterson, NJ a good place to live?
Paterson offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 157,660 and a median age of 33.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Paterson, NJ?
12.5% of residents in Paterson 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 Paterson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Paterson, NJ: median home value is $335,400 (37% above national), median rent is $1,457/month, and median household income is $53,766. The home-value-to-income ratio is 6.2x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Paterson?
The poverty rate in Paterson, NJ is 23.6%, 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 Paterson, NJ?
Paterson's population is 4.8% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 9.2% Black or African American, 48.5% Asian, and 23.3% two or more races. 44.1% of residents are foreign-born.