Cost of Living in Salem County, New Jersey
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Salem County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Salem County ranks #2,368 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 25%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Salem County, New Jersey
Salem's rent burden beats the nation
Salem County residents spend 18.1% of their income on rent, well below the national strain point of roughly 30%. With a median household income of $78,412—just $3,657 above the national median—Salem offers more breathing room than most American counties.
Most affordable county in New Jersey
Salem's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks it among New Jersey's most affordable counties, beating the state average of 19.1% by a full percentage point. At $1,185 per month, Salem's median rent sits $392 below the statewide average.
Salem undercuts similar rural counties
Salem's $1,185 median rent is $118 cheaper than Warren County and $318 cheaper than Sussex County, both comparable rural areas in northern New Jersey. Home values also lean lower in Salem at $223,000, making it the least expensive county in this comparison group.
Housing takes 18.1% of Salem income
Renters spend roughly $1,185 monthly while homeowners pay $1,528—both modest compared to Salem's $78,412 median household income. Together, housing costs consume less than one-fifth of typical household earnings, leaving more for other expenses.
Consider Salem for budget-friendly living
If you're relocating and prioritize affordability, Salem County delivers lower rents and home values than most of New Jersey without sacrificing household income levels. Compare these figures to your current location and explore Salem's rural charm alongside its financial practicality.
Cost of Living Advisory: Salem County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Salem County is affordable. The median rent is $1,185/month against a median household income of $78,412, putting rent at 18.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,185/month rent versus $1,528/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $343/month cheaper — a 22% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $47,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $65,486/year. With a median household income of $78,412, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Salem County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Salem County sits 6% less expensive than Cumberland County ($1,254/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Salem County
Rent Burden
18.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,830
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Salem County
Median home value is $223,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,780 vs. your max of $1,830.
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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Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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