West Long Branch, NJ
Population 8,576 · New Jersey
About West Long Branch, NJ
West Long Branch is a small town located in New Jersey with a population of 8,576 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $123,661 per year, which is 65% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 30.4 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 West Long Branch features a median home value of $631,300, which is 158% above the national median of $244,900. This places West Long Branch in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,936, 66% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,030 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (1,982 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (789 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Long Branch shows an unemployment rate of 6.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 2.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Long Branch have an average one-way commute time of 29.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
45.9% of West Long Branch residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 0.9% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 3.1% Black or African American, and 3.0% Asian residents, with 7.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Long Branch, NJ
Compared to national averages, West Long Branch has a median household income of $123,661 (65% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $631,300, which is 158% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,936 is 66% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, West Long Branch's income is 7% above the state average of $115,667, and home values are 34% above the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in West Long Branch, NJ?
West Long Branch offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $123,661, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 45.9% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 2.8%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $631,300. However, West Long Branch’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Long Branch has a population of 8,576 with a median age of 30.4 years. Compare West Long Branch with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near West Long Branch
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Closter | 8,544 | $187,500 | $820,100 | Compare |
| Montvale | 8,625 | $183,664 | $688,500 | Compare |
| Audubon | 8,699 | $116,900 | $288,500 | Compare |
| White Meadow Lake | 8,706 | $150,042 | $441,000 | Compare |
| Northfield | 8,427 | $104,042 | $275,900 | Compare |
| North Haledon | 8,757 | $131,810 | $517,200 | Compare |
| Madison Park | 8,798 | $76,396 | $386,200 | Compare |
| Upper Saddle River | 8,354 | $246,719 | $1,101,800 | 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 West Long Branch With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Long Branch
What is the population of West Long Branch, NJ?
The population of West Long Branch, NJ is 8,576 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in New Jersey.
What is the median household income in West Long Branch?
The median household income in West Long Branch, NJ is $123,661 per year, which is 65% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Long Branch?
The median home value in West Long Branch, NJ is $631,300, which is 158% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Long Branch?
The median monthly rent in West Long Branch, NJ is $1,936, which is 66% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Long Branch?
The unemployment rate in West Long Branch, NJ is 6.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Long Branch, NJ a good place to live?
West Long Branch offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 8,576 and a median age of 30.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is West Long Branch, NJ?
45.9% of residents in West Long Branch aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in West Long Branch?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Long Branch, NJ: median home value is $631,300 (158% above national), median rent is $1,936/month, and median household income is $123,661. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in West Long Branch?
The poverty rate in West Long Branch, NJ is 2.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is West Long Branch, NJ?
West Long Branch's population is 0.9% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 3.1% Black or African American, 3.0% Asian, and 5.5% two or more races. 7.9% of residents are foreign-born.