Trenton, NJ
Population 89,966 · New Jersey
About Trenton, NJ
Trenton is a mid-sized city located in New Jersey with a population of 89,966 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,102 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.4 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 Trenton features a median home value of $122,500, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Trenton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,224, 5% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 35,871 total housing units, 36% are owner-occupied (11,537 units) and 64% are renter-occupied (20,567 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 Trenton shows an unemployment rate of 10.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 24.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Trenton have an average one-way commute time of 26.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.7% of Trenton 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 2.4% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 9.7% Black or African American, and 31.9% Asian residents, with 29.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Trenton Ranks in New Jersey
Cost of Living in Trenton, NJ
Compared to national averages, Trenton has a median household income of $47,102 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $122,500, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,224 is 5% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, Trenton's income is 59% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 74% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in Trenton, NJ?
Trenton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $122,500, below the US average of $244,900.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,102) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, Trenton provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Trenton has a population of 89,966 with a median age of 35.4 years. Compare Trenton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near Trenton
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clifton | 89,247 | $99,003 | $444,300 | Compare |
| Toms River | 93,915 | $95,759 | $377,800 | 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 |
| East Orange | 69,183 | $59,872 | $315,500 | Compare |
| Union City | 66,375 | $65,369 | $446,800 | 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 Trenton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Trenton
What is the population of Trenton, NJ?
The population of Trenton, NJ is 89,966 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 Trenton?
The median household income in Trenton, NJ is $47,102 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Trenton?
The median home value in Trenton, NJ is $122,500, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Trenton?
The median monthly rent in Trenton, NJ is $1,224, which is 5% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Trenton?
The unemployment rate in Trenton, NJ is 10.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Trenton, NJ a good place to live?
Trenton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 89,966 and a median age of 35.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Trenton, NJ?
16.7% of residents in Trenton 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 Trenton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Trenton, NJ: median home value is $122,500 (50% below national), median rent is $1,224/month, and median household income is $47,102. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Trenton?
The poverty rate in Trenton, NJ is 24.7%, 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 Trenton, NJ?
Trenton's population is 2.4% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 9.7% Black or African American, 31.9% Asian, and 41.1% two or more races. 29.3% of residents are foreign-born.