Plainfield, NJ
Population 54,515 · New Jersey
About Plainfield, NJ
Plainfield is a mid-sized city located in New Jersey with a population of 54,515 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $80,334 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33 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 Plainfield features a median home value of $383,300, which is 57% above the national median of $244,900. This places Plainfield in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,673, 44% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 17,149 total housing units, 42% are owner-occupied (6,891 units) and 58% are renter-occupied (9,361 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 Plainfield shows an unemployment rate of 9.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Plainfield have an average one-way commute time of 30.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
22.8% of Plainfield 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 3.5% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Black or African American, and 48.9% Asian residents, with 41.5% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Plainfield With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Plainfield
What is the population of Plainfield, NJ?
The population of Plainfield, NJ is 54,515 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 Plainfield?
The median household income in Plainfield, NJ is $80,334 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Plainfield?
The median home value in Plainfield, NJ is $383,300, which is 57% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Plainfield?
The median monthly rent in Plainfield, NJ is $1,673, which is 44% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Plainfield?
The unemployment rate in Plainfield, NJ is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Plainfield, NJ a good place to live?
Plainfield offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 54,515 and a median age of 33, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Plainfield, NJ?
22.8% of residents in 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 Plainfield?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Plainfield, NJ: median home value is $383,300 (57% above national), median rent is $1,673/month, and median household income is $80,334. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Plainfield?
The poverty rate in Plainfield, NJ is 17.1%, 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 Plainfield, NJ?
Plainfield's population is 3.5% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Black or African American, 48.9% Asian, and 32.6% two or more races. 41.5% of residents are foreign-born.