Everything You Should Know Before Moving to New Brunswick, NJ
Thinking of moving to New Brunswick, NJ? With a vibrant population of 55,495 and a youthful median age, this city is home to Rutgers University and two major hospitals. Median home values are around $355,000, while average rents are about $1,620—more affordable than many nearby areas. Expect a lively urban vibe, diverse community, and a higher property crime rate, but also strong public transportation options, walkability, and educational opportunities. Commute times average just under 30 minutes, and you'll enjoy four seasons with about 54% sunny days each year.
Demographics - New Brunswick, NJ
Demographics - New Brunswick, NJ
New Brunswick, NJ is a diverse urban city of 55,495 residents, with a notably young median age of 24.6—reflecting its vibrant student population. The community is ethnically varied, with significant White, Black, Asian, and Hispanic representation, and over a third of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its high population density and balanced gender ratio create a lively and dynamic atmosphere.
Population:
55,495
Density:
11,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
24.6
Gender Ratio:
103 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
35.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
44.2%
Black:
22.1%
Asian:
9.9%
Others:
23.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in New Brunswick, NJ?
The cost of living in New Brunswick is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 119. Median home values are about $355,000 and average rents are $1,620, making it more affordable than some neighboring cities, but still relatively pricey. Utilities and transportation are also above average, while New Jersey state taxes range from 1.4% to 10.75%.
Median House Value:
$355,000
Gross Rent:
$1,620
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,850
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,000
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$600
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
119
Grocery:
115
Housing:
127
Utilities:
110
Transportation:
117
Health Care:
109
Miscellaneous:
105
Crime
Is New Brunswick, NJ a safe place to live?
New Brunswick experiences a moderate crime rate, with a 1 in 252 chance of violent crime and 1 in 63 chance of property crime annually. While the property crime rate is a bit higher than average, many residents find that the city’s active community and urban environment help foster a sense of connection and vigilance. It's advisable for newcomers to stay aware and take typical urban safety precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
397
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,585
Crime Index:
1,982
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 252
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 63
Weather
What is the weather like in New Brunswick, NJ year-round?
Residents of New Brunswick enjoy all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 87°F and chilly winters dipping to 25°F. The city receives around 47 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine about 54% of the year. This climate offers a balance of outdoor recreation opportunities and classic seasonal experiences.

Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
49°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Neighbors in New Brunswick reflect a blend of incomes and backgrounds, with a median household income of $56,500 and a relatively high poverty rate of 28.2%. Public transportation is well-used, with nearly 15% of residents relying on it, and average commutes take just under 30 minutes. The community is linguistically diverse, and about three-quarters of adults have at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$42,000
Household Income:
$56,500
Family Income:
$58,200
Per Capita Income:
$23,300
Income Male:
$31,000
Income Female:
$27,000
Poverty Rate:
28.2%
Non English Speakers:
35.5%
Rent:
$1,620
Unemployment Rate:
5.0%
Public Transport Usage:
14.9%
Commute Time:
29.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
74.6%
Bachelors or More:
25.1%
Education
How are the schools in New Brunswick, NJ?
Education in New Brunswick is anchored by Rutgers University, serving over 50,000 students and shaping the city’s youthful character. Local public schools, such as New Brunswick High School, offer diverse educational programs, while private options and community colleges are also available nearby. The city’s mix of institutions supports learners at every stage, from elementary to higher education.

Public Schools
Name:
New Brunswick High School
Street:
1000 Somerset St
Phone:
732-745-5300
Students:
2,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Paul Robeson Community School for the Arts
Street:
199 Commercial Ave
Phone:
732-745-5300
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8

Private Schools
Name:
St. Peter's Elementary School
Street:
165 Somerset St
Phone:
732-846-3060
Students:
250

Colleges
Name:
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
City:
New Brunswick
State:
NJ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
50,600
Name:
Middlesex College
City:
Edison
State:
NJ
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
11,500
Healthcare
New Brunswick is a regional healthcare hub, featuring two major teaching hospitals—Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Saint Peter's University Hospital—offering comprehensive services and emergency care. With 2.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and 85.2% of people covered by health insurance, access to medical care is robust. The city’s healthcare index is strong, making it appealing for families and retirees alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
Address:
1 Robert Wood Johnson Pl, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Phone:
(732) 828-3000
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Saint Peter's University Hospital
Address:
254 Easton Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Phone:
(732) 745-8600
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.2%
Health Care Index:
73.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in New Brunswick, NJ?
New Brunswick’s housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $355,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,620. The city has a low owner-occupancy rate of 23.4%, reflecting a large rental population, and home values have appreciated by 5.4% over the past year. Rental vacancies are moderate, and new construction remains limited.
Median Home Price:
$355,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,620
Owner Occupied Rate:
23.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents manage vehicle registration and licensing through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, headquartered in Trenton. The local DMV provides standard services such as driver’s licenses, vehicle titles, and registrations, and information is readily available online. Newcomers can expect comprehensive resources and support for all motor vehicle needs.
State:
New Jersey
Department:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Address:
225 E. State Street, Trenton, NJ 08666
Phone:
1-609-292-6500
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.