Cost of Living in Passaic County, New Jersey
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Passaic County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Passaic County ranks #3,083 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 2%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Passaic County, New Jersey
Passaic rents stretch median income thin
Passaic County's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds New Jersey's 19.1% average, with a median household income of $87,137 supporting a median rent of $1,553. While rents remain below state average, Passaic's lower incomes make the housing burden comparatively heavier.
Passaic struggles with affordability
At 21.4%, Passaic's rent-to-income ratio ranks among New Jersey's worst, well above the state average of 19.1% and higher than most neighboring counties. The combination of below-state-average income and above-average affordability pressure creates real housing stress for Passaic renters.
Lower rents than Hudson, lower income
Passaic's $1,553 median rent is $258 below Hudson's $1,811, but Passaic households earn $87,137 versus Hudson's $90,032—leaving Passaic renters with less breathing room. Compared to Mercer's $1,515 rent and $96,333 income, Passaic ranks less favorable on both metrics.
Owners face steep costs too
Renters pay $1,553 monthly while homeowners face $2,385—among the state's highest owner costs relative to income. The median household income of $87,137 must stretch across both paths, making Passaic's housing market challenging whether renting or buying.
Consider location and income carefully
Passaic County suits households earning $90,000+ seeking urban access and affordability, but renters should budget carefully with 21.4% of income going to housing. If you're relocating with higher income, nearby Mercer County's 18.9% ratio may provide better value for similar rents.
Cost of Living Advisory: Passaic County
Affordability Verdict
Passaic County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,553/month representing approximately 21.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 33.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Passaic County pay $1,553/month on average, compared to $2,385/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 35%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $62,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $102,214/year. With a median household income of $87,137, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in Passaic County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within New Jersey, Passaic County is more affordable than Gloucester County by roughly 5% ($1,553/mo vs $1,480/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Passaic County
Rent Burden
21.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,033
per month
Owner Cost Burden
32.8%
of gross income
The median home in Passaic County may be a stretch
Median home value is $439,400. Estimated monthly cost: $3,508 vs. your max of $2,033.
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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