South Plainfield, NJ
Population 24,231 · New Jersey
About South Plainfield, NJ
South Plainfield is a mid-sized city in New Jersey with a population of 24,231 residents. The median household income is $126,063 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in South Plainfield is 41.7 years.
Housing in South Plainfield has a median home value of $443,900 and median monthly rent of $1,928. Of the 8,443 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 7,051 owner-occupied and 1,229 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in South Plainfield is 7.2% and the poverty rate is 3.6%. 42.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28 minutes.
How South Plainfield Ranks in New Jersey
Cost of Living in South Plainfield, NJ
Compared to national averages, South Plainfield has a median household income of $126,063 (68% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $443,900, which is 81% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,928 is 66% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, South Plainfield's income is 9% above the state average of $115,667, and home values are 5% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in South Plainfield, NJ?
South Plainfield offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $126,063, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 42.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 3.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $443,900. However, South Plainfield’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Plainfield has a population of 24,231 with a median age of 41.7 years. Compare South Plainfield with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near South Plainfield
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Somerset | 23,851 | $113,603 | $408,600 | Compare |
| Glassboro | 23,375 | $80,388 | $276,900 | Compare |
| Carteret | 25,187 | $87,553 | $370,200 | Compare |
| Cliffside Park | 25,580 | $94,960 | $577,200 | Compare |
| North Plainfield | 22,667 | $83,529 | $350,700 | Compare |
| Lodi | 25,946 | $84,570 | $449,200 | Compare |
| Summit | 22,512 | $199,107 | $969,900 | Compare |
| Roselle | 22,455 | $82,967 | $336,500 | 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 South Plainfield
What is the population of South Plainfield, NJ?
The population of South Plainfield, NJ is 24,231 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in South Plainfield?
The median household income in South Plainfield, NJ is $126,063 per year.
What is the median home value in South Plainfield?
The median home value in South Plainfield, NJ is $443,900.
What is the average rent in South Plainfield?
The median monthly rent in South Plainfield, NJ is $1,928.
What is the unemployment rate in South Plainfield?
The unemployment rate in South Plainfield, NJ is 7.2%.