New Jersey Cost of Living
Housing costs and affordability data for 21 counties.
Average Monthly Rent
$1,577/mo
Average Home Value
$402,957
Average Owner Cost
$2,096/mo
At a Glance
Housing Costs in New Jersey: An Overview
The median rent in New Jersey is $1,577 per month, which is 36% above the national median of $1,163. This places the state among the more expensive places to lease a home in the country.
Within New Jersey, housing costs vary significantly by county. Somerset County is the most expensive county with a median rent of $1,921 per month and a median home value of $523,900. At the other end of the spectrum, Salem County offers the most affordable housing, with a median rent of $1,185 per month and homes valued at a median of $223,000.
The average home value across New Jersey counties is $402,957, 43% higher than the national median of $281,900. With a median household income of roughly $100,891, many residents find homeownership a stretch.
Before moving to New Jersey, it is worth understanding the local housing landscape. Costs can swing dramatically between rural and urban counties, so researching the specific county you plan to live in is essential. Use the county-level data below to compare rent, home values, and affordability ratings so you can budget accurately for your relocation.
Distribution
Rent Distribution in New Jersey
How median rents are spread across 21 counties
Top 5 Most Expensive Counties
Top 5 Most Affordable Counties
All New Jersey Counties
| County | Median Rent | Home Value | Owner Cost | Rent/Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Somerset County | Expensive$1,921/mo | $523,900 | $2,461/mo | 29.0% |
| Bergen County | Expensive$1,863/mo | $593,200 | $2,711/mo | 29.0% |
| Morris County | Expensive$1,860/mo | $557,000 | $2,573/mo | 27.0% |
| Hudson County | Expensive$1,811/mo | $508,600 | $2,523/mo | 28.0% |
| Middlesex County | Expensive$1,810/mo | $439,300 | $2,196/mo | 28.0% |
| Monmouth County | Expensive$1,771/mo | $566,500 | $2,364/mo | 31.0% |
| Hunterdon County | Expensive$1,707/mo | $498,800 | $2,384/mo | 28.0% |
| Ocean County | Expensive$1,702/mo | $366,600 | $1,630/mo | 35.0% |
| Burlington County | Expensive$1,669/mo | $326,700 | $1,886/mo | 30.0% |
| Union County | Expensive$1,664/mo | $488,800 | $2,551/mo | 30.0% |
| Passaic County | Expensive$1,553/mo | $439,400 | $2,385/mo | 33.0% |
| Mercer County | Expensive$1,515/mo | $351,000 | $1,984/mo | 30.0% |
| Sussex County | Expensive$1,503/mo | $342,800 | $2,006/mo | 31.0% |
| Gloucester County | Moderate$1,480/mo | $283,500 | $1,875/mo | 30.0% |
| Essex County | Moderate$1,459/mo | $494,400 | $2,710/mo | 32.0% |
| Warren County | Moderate$1,368/mo | $323,100 | $1,779/mo | 28.0% |
| Camden County | Moderate$1,346/mo | $262,200 | $1,767/mo | 32.0% |
| Cape May County | Moderate$1,345/mo | $395,000 | $1,588/mo | 33.0% |
| Atlantic County | Moderate$1,325/mo | $272,700 | $1,675/mo | 32.0% |
| Cumberland County | Moderate$1,254/mo | $205,600 | $1,437/mo | 34.0% |
| Salem County | Moderate$1,185/mo | $223,000 | $1,528/mo | 32.0% |
Compare New Jersey to Other States
See how New Jersey counties stack up against counties in other states. Compare rent, home values, and affordability side by side.
Start a ComparisonFrequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Housing Costs
What is the most affordable county in New Jersey?
What is the most expensive county to live in New Jersey?
How does New Jersey's cost of living compare to the national average?
What is the average home value in New Jersey?
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Compare Moving QuotesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.