Plainfield, NJ
Population 54,515 · New Jersey
About Plainfield, NJ
Plainfield is a mid-sized city in New Jersey with a population of 54,515 residents. The median household income is $80,334 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Plainfield is 33 years.
Housing in Plainfield has a median home value of $383,300 and median monthly rent of $1,673. Of the 17,149 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 6,891 owner-occupied and 9,361 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Plainfield is 9.3% and the poverty rate is 17.1%. 22.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.1 minutes.
How Plainfield Ranks in New Jersey
Cost of Living in Plainfield, NJ
Compared to national averages, Plainfield has a median household income of $80,334 (7% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $383,300, which is 57% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,673 is 44% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, Plainfield's income is 31% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 18% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in Plainfield, NJ?
Plainfield offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $80,334, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $383,300. However, as a mid-sized city, Plainfield provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Plainfield has a population of 54,515 with a median age of 33 years. Compare Plainfield with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near Plainfield
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perth Amboy | 55,278 | $58,490 | $339,200 | Compare |
| New Brunswick | 55,744 | $60,248 | $316,800 | Compare |
| West New York | 51,683 | $67,139 | $410,200 | Compare |
| Hoboken | 58,340 | $176,943 | $872,100 | 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 |
| Sicklerville | 44,500 | $102,881 | $256,600 | 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 Plainfield
What is the population of Plainfield, NJ?
The population of Plainfield, NJ is 54,515 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Plainfield?
The median household income in Plainfield, NJ is $80,334 per year.
What is the median home value in Plainfield?
The median home value in Plainfield, NJ is $383,300.
What is the average rent in Plainfield?
The median monthly rent in Plainfield, NJ is $1,673.
What is the unemployment rate in Plainfield?
The unemployment rate in Plainfield, NJ is 9.3%.