Cost of Living in Bergen County, New Jersey
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bergen County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bergen County, New Jersey
Bergen County shows surprising rental affordability
Bergen County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.1% sits below the national average of 18.5%, a notable achievement given that residents earn significantly more. The county's median household income of $123,715—65% higher than the U.S. median of $74,755—allows higher earnings to offset steep rents of $1,863 monthly.
New Jersey's most affordable county by ratio
Bergen County boasts the state's best rent-to-income ratio at 18.1%, beating New Jersey's 19.1% average. Though median rents of $1,863 rank among the state's highest, Bergen's affluent workforce keeps housing costs manageable relative to income.
Pricey rents, but income gap tells the real story
Bergen County's $1,863 median rent is $234 higher than Essex County's $1,459, yet Bergen households earn $47,003 more annually. This income advantage transforms Bergen's higher rents into a smaller burden—18.1% of income versus Essex's 22.8%.
Homeownership premium commands high price in Bergen
Bergen County homeowners pay $2,711 monthly—45% more than renters' $1,863—reflecting a median home value of $593,200, New Jersey's highest. At $123,715 median household income, monthly ownership costs consume 26.3% of earnings, a significant jump from renters' 18.1%.
Bergen attracts high earners despite steep home prices
If your household income exceeds $120,000, Bergen County's exceptional school systems and proximity to New York City justify the premium: rents are actually affordable relative to earning power. But renters looking to buy should brace for a $593,200 median home price—the state's most expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bergen County
Rent Burden
18.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,887
per month
Owner Cost Burden
26.3%
of gross income
The median home in Bergen County may be a stretch
Median home value is $593,200. Estimated monthly cost: $4,736 vs. your max of $2,887.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.