Paterson, NJ
Population 157,660 · New Jersey
About Paterson, NJ
Paterson is a major city in New Jersey with a population of 157,660 residents. The median household income is $53,766 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Paterson is 33.3 years.
Housing in Paterson has a median home value of $335,400 and median monthly rent of $1,457. Of the 52,532 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 13,027 owner-occupied and 36,661 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Paterson is 10.2% and the poverty rate is 23.6%. 12.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23.1 minutes.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Paterson
What is the population of Paterson, NJ?
The population of Paterson, NJ is 157,660 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Paterson?
The median household income in Paterson, NJ is $53,766 per year.
What is the median home value in Paterson?
The median home value in Paterson, NJ is $335,400.
What is the average rent in Paterson?
The median monthly rent in Paterson, NJ is $1,457.
What is the unemployment rate in Paterson?
The unemployment rate in Paterson, NJ is 10.2%.