South River, NJ
Population 16,007 · New Jersey
About South River, NJ
South River is a mid-sized city located in New Jersey with a population of 16,007 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $101,853 per year, which is 36% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in South River features a median home value of $382,500, which is 56% above the national median of $244,900. This places South River in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,599, 37% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,789 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (3,659 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (1,911 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South River shows an unemployment rate of 8.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in South River have an average one-way commute time of 32.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.1% of South River residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 6.6% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 4.7% Black or African American, and 14.9% Asian residents, with 24.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South River, NJ
Compared to national averages, South River has a median household income of $101,853 (36% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $382,500, which is 56% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,599 is 37% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, South River's income is 12% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 19% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in South River, NJ?
South River offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $101,853, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 11.3%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $382,500. However, South River’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South River has a population of 16,007 with a median age of 36.5 years. Compare South River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near South River
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Springdale | 15,672 | $179,531 | $454,200 | Compare |
| North Arlington | 16,368 | $101,493 | $464,700 | Compare |
| Madison | 16,464 | $168,469 | $882,900 | Compare |
| Princeton Meadows | 15,382 | $124,065 | $636,300 | Compare |
| Tenafly | 15,252 | $208,088 | $974,300 | Compare |
| Phillipsburg | 15,251 | $67,782 | $180,700 | Compare |
| Asbury Park | 15,239 | $71,080 | $508,800 | Compare |
| New Milford | 16,882 | $113,513 | $554,800 | 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 South River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South River
What is the population of South River, NJ?
The population of South River, NJ is 16,007 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 South River?
The median household income in South River, NJ is $101,853 per year, which is 36% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South River?
The median home value in South River, NJ is $382,500, which is 56% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South River?
The median monthly rent in South River, NJ is $1,599, which is 37% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South River?
The unemployment rate in South River, NJ is 8.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South River, NJ a good place to live?
South River offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 16,007 and a median age of 36.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is South River, NJ?
31.1% of residents in South River 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 South River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South River, NJ: median home value is $382,500 (56% above national), median rent is $1,599/month, and median household income is $101,853. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in South River?
The poverty rate in South River, NJ is 11.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is South River, NJ?
South River's population is 6.6% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 4.7% Black or African American, 14.9% Asian, and 10.4% two or more races. 24.8% of residents are foreign-born.