Salem County, New Jersey Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Salem County is located in New Jersey with a total population of 64,973. It is the 21st most populous county out of 21 in New Jersey. The county encompasses 4 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Salem County is 41.9 years. This is 4% higher than the state median of 40.1 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Salem County is $78,412. This is 22% lower than the state median of $101,050. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is about average. The poverty rate stands at 12.8%. This is 31% higher than the state poverty rate of 9.8%. The unemployment rate is 7.5%. This is 21% higher than the state rate of 6.2%. The median home value is $223,000. Housing costs are 48% lower than the state median of $427,600. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.8x, Salem County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 71.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 12% higher than the state average of 63.7%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Salem County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 71.0% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 13.3%. The Hispanic or Latino population (10.7%) is well below the state average of 21.9%. The Asian population (0.9%) is well below the state average of 9.8%.

Education

24.0% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 44% lower than the state rate of 42.9%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 90.1%.