Cost of Living in Hunterdon County, New Jersey
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hunterdon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hunterdon County ranks #1,064 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 34%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hunterdon County, New Jersey
Hunterdon's high earners enjoy affordability
Hunterdon County achieves a 14.7% rent-to-income ratio—one of the nation's best—thanks to a median household income of $139,453 paired with a median rent of $1,707. This income level, 86% above the national median of $74,755, makes housing costs feel manageable despite New Jersey's elevated rents.
Most affordable county in New Jersey
Hunterdon's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks as the best in New Jersey, well below the state average of 19.1%. The county combines above-average incomes with below-average rent pressures, creating the state's most favorable housing cost equation.
Significantly cheaper than Morris
Hunterdon's median rent of $1,707 is $153 less than nearby Morris County's $1,860, and Hunterdon households earn more ($139,453 vs. $134,929). This combination gives Hunterdon renters the most breathing room among the state's affluent northern counties.
Wealth softens housing burden
Renters spend $1,707 monthly while homeowners face $2,384, with the median household income of $139,453 absorbing both costs comfortably. Even at these price points, housing represents a manageable slice of Hunterdon's well-above-average paychecks.
The best housing deal in New Jersey
If you're relocating with a strong income, Hunterdon offers the state's best rent-to-income ratio at 14.7% and strong public services to match. High earners seeking New Jersey living without the affordability squeeze should prioritize Hunterdon's suburban communities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hunterdon County
Affordability Verdict
Hunterdon County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,707/month representing approximately 14.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,707/month rent versus $2,384/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $677/month cheaper — a 28% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $68,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $102,171/year. With a median household income of $139,453, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Hunterdon County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within New Jersey, Hunterdon County is less affordable than Monmouth County by roughly 4% ($1,707/mo vs $1,771/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hunterdon County
Rent Burden
14.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$3,254
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.5%
of gross income
The median home in Hunterdon County may be a stretch
Median home value is $498,800. Estimated monthly cost: $3,982 vs. your max of $3,254.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
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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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