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
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bergen County ranks #1,795 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 43%)
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.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bergen County
Affordability Verdict
Bergen County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,863/month representing approximately 18.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Bergen County pay $1,863/month on average, compared to $2,711/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 31%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $74,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $116,186/year. With a median household income of $123,715, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Bergen County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Hudson County where rent averages $1,811/month, Bergen County is approximately 3% more 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
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
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.
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