Cost of Living in Union County, New Jersey
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Union County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Union County, New Jersey
Union stretches affordability for renters
Union County's 19.9% rent-to-income ratio marks the threshold where housing becomes a genuine financial burden, slightly exceeding the national stress point. With a median household income of $100,117 and rents of $1,664, Union's affordability challenge is steeper than most American counties.
Union ranks least affordable in cohort
Union's 19.9% rent-to-income ratio edges above New Jersey's 19.1% state average, making it less affordable than most comparable counties statewide. This slight disadvantage reflects Union's urban character and proximity to New York City.
Union's urban premium shows in rents
Union rents of $1,664 exceed every other county in this group except Somerset, while home values of $488,800 rank second-highest. The county's proximity to Newark and Manhattan commands a premium that reduces relative affordability.
Union housing costs approach one-fifth income
Renters spend $1,664 monthly while homeowners pay $2,551, with rents consuming 19.9% of the $100,117 median household income. Homeownership reaches even higher cost burdens at roughly 30.6% of income, straining owner-occupied household budgets.
Union rewards transit-dependent relocators
If you're moving to Union for urban job access and robust public transit, factor the higher housing costs into your relocation decision and compare against salary premiums in dense employment centers. Remote workers should consider more affordable neighboring counties instead.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Union County
Rent Burden
19.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,336
per month
Owner Cost Burden
30.6%
of gross income
The median home in Union County may be a stretch
Median home value is $488,800. Estimated monthly cost: $3,902 vs. your max of $2,336.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Union County, New Jersey?
What is the median rent in Union County?
Is Union County affordable?
How does Union County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Union County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Union County, New Jersey? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Union County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.