Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Plainfield, NJ
Considering a move to South Plainfield, NJ? This friendly suburb of 24,154 residents offers a strong sense of community, affordable living, and a median home price around $412,500. With low violent crime rates, excellent public schools, and short average commutes of about 32 minutes, South Plainfield is ideal for families and professionals alike. Enjoy all four seasons with 54% sunny days, and benefit from nearby healthcare and higher education options for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Demographics - South Plainfield, NJ
Demographics - South Plainfield, NJ
South Plainfield is home to about 24,000 residents, featuring a diverse mix of White, Asian, Black, and other communities, with a median age of 41. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a notable portion of non-English speakers, contributing to a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere. High population density supports a close-knit suburban environment.
Population:
24,154
Density:
2,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.0
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
16.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
53.0%
Black:
10.5%
Asian:
23.0%
Others:
13.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Plainfield, NJ?
Living in South Plainfield comes with a cost of living index of 123, above the national average, and a median house value of $412,500. Residents can expect moderate expenses for utilities and groceries, while state taxes and housing costs are higher than average. The area's affordability is balanced by access to quality services and amenities.
Median House Value:
$412,500
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,780
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,170
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$670
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
123.0
Grocery:
118.0
Housing:
132.0
Utilities:
111.0
Transportation:
120.0
Health Care:
110.0
Miscellaneous:
109.0
Crime
Is South Plainfield, NJ a safe place to live?
South Plainfield boasts a low violent crime rate, with just 97 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 1,030 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime remains relatively low, making it a safe and secure community for families and individuals. Residents generally enjoy peace of mind regarding neighborhood safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
97
Property Crimes Per 100k:
799
Crime Index:
896
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,030
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 125
Weather
What is the weather like in South Plainfield, NJ year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 25°F and warm summers reaching up to 85°F. The city sees about 47 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 54% sunny days, making outdoor activities pleasant throughout much of the year. This climate offers a comfortable balance for those who appreciate seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
South Plainfield's households have a median income of over $101,000, and a low poverty rate of 5.7% underscores the area's economic stability. Most residents are well-educated, with nearly 92% holding at least a high school diploma, and the community benefits from relatively short commutes and diverse backgrounds. The low unemployment rate and strong family incomes make it an attractive choice for professionals and families.
Median Income:
$44,000
Household Income:
$101,500
Family Income:
$109,000
Per Capita Income:
$41,500
Income Male:
$52,000
Income Female:
$44,500
Poverty Rate:
5.7%
Non English Speakers:
29.5%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
5.1%
Commute Time:
31.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
38.5%
Education
How are the schools in South Plainfield, NJ?
South Plainfield offers quality public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, along with private school options for families seeking alternatives. Higher education is easily accessible, with Middlesex College just 4 miles away and Rutgers University nearby, providing a range of academic opportunities. The community values education, reflected in high graduation and degree attainment rates.

Public Schools
Name:
South Plainfield High School
Street:
200 Lake St
Phone:
908-754-4620
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Grant School
Street:
305 Cromwell Pl
Phone:
908-754-4620
Students:
570
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.0

Private Schools
Name:
Holy Savior Academy
Street:
149 South Plainfield Ave
Phone:
908-822-5890
Students:
220

Colleges
Name:
Middlesex College
City:
Edison
State:
NJ
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
11,500
Name:
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
City:
New Brunswick
State:
NJ
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
50,000
Healthcare
Quality healthcare is readily accessible in South Plainfield, with two major hospitals nearby and 2.7 physicians per 1,000 residents. Over 92% of the population has health insurance coverage, reflecting broad access to medical services. The area’s healthcare infrastructure supports a healthy and secure lifestyle.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Hackensack Meridian Health JFK University Medical Center
Address:
65 James St, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone:
(732) 321-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
Address:
1 Robert Wood Johnson Pl, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Phone:
(732) 828-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
74.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Plainfield, NJ?
The housing market in South Plainfield is strong, with a median home price of $412,500 and a high rate of owner-occupied homes at 80%. Rents for a two-bedroom average $1,650, and the area has a low foreclosure rate and steady home appreciation. This stability makes it appealing for both homeowners and renters.
Median Home Price:
$412,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for South Plainfield residents are managed by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, conveniently located in Trenton. The DMV offers comprehensive resources for licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle needs through its website and customer service lines. Residents benefit from streamlined access to essential transportation services.
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.