Ocean County Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Ocean County, NJ, has a population of approximately 637,229. The racial makeup is predominantly White (non-Hispanic) at around 79.7%, followed by Hispanic or Latino at 10.1%, African American at 3.9%, and Asian at 2.5%. The median age is about 44. The median household income is roughly $68,000, and around 7.9% of the population lives below the poverty line. The county is characterized by a mix of urban and suburban areas, with significant portions of the population being retirees.

Ocean County Housing

As of the latest data in 2023, Ocean County, NJ has a median home value of approximately $350,000. The median rent is around $1,800 per month. The county has seen an annual property value appreciation of roughly 7%. The homeownership rate is 79%, and the vacancy rate stands at about 10%. Housing stock largely consists of single-family homes, which make up around 80% of the market. The average household size is about 2.7 people. These figures underscore a steady demand and a relatively stable market environment in the county.

Elections in Ocean County

As of 2023, Ocean County, NJ has various elections, including local, state, and national positions. For local elections, key positions often include county commissioners, sheriff, and other municipal roles.

In the 2022 election cycle:

  • The Ocean County Board of Commissioners had several seats contested. Republican candidates Virginia "Ginny" Haines and John P. Kelly won re-election with 29.5% and 29.0% of the vote, respectively. Democratic challengers Catherine Paura and Roxanne L. Barnes received 20.8% and 20.2%.
  • For the Ocean County Sheriff, Michael G. Mastronardy ran unopposed in the Republican primary and secured 100% of the vote in the general election.

Voter turnout in Ocean County typically ranges between 40-60% in midterms and 60-70% in presidential election years. For precise current-year candidates and numerical values, it is advisable to consult the Ocean County Clerk's official website or local election board resources.

How Educated in Ocean County

As of the latest data, Ocean County, NJ, shows educational attainment levels lower than state and national averages. About 30.3% of residents aged 25 and older have a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 39.3% and the New Jersey state average of 41.2%. Additionally, 89.2% have at least a high school diploma, slightly below the national average of 91.0% and the state average of 91.8%.

These figures indicate that while Ocean County's education level is respectable, it lags behind both national and New Jersey averages in higher education attainment.

Ocean County Employment Rate

As of the most recent data, Ocean County, NJ has a labor force of roughly 300,000 individuals, with an unemployment rate around 5%, slightly higher than the national average of approximately 3.5% and the New Jersey state average of about 4.5%.

Top industries in Ocean County include healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, and educational services. Healthcare and social assistance employ about 20% of the workforce, reflecting the county's aging population. Retail trade accounts for around 15%, while educational services comprise approximately 12%.

Compared to national averages, Ocean County has a higher percentage of workers in retail and healthcare, aligning with New Jersey's state trends but varying slightly in industry-specific employment rates.

This data offers a snapshot of the local economy, influenced by both demographic patterns and regional economic forces.

Average Income in Ocean County

As of the most recent data, Ocean County, NJ has an average household income of approximately $78,330. This is slightly below the New Jersey state average, which stands at about $84,750, and also lower than the national average household income of $68,703.

Ocean County, NJ New Jersey (State) United States (National)
Average Income $78,330 $84,750 $68,703

Given these figures, Ocean County, NJ has a lower average income compared to the state average but remains higher than the national mean.

Ocean County Crime Rates

As of recent data, Ocean County, NJ has seen varying crime rates. The overall crime rate is about 1,564 incidents per 100,000 people. Here are the statistics for different types of crime:

Type of Crime Incidents per 100,000 People
Violent Crime 138
Property Crime 1,426
Murder 3
Rape 18
Robbery 20
Aggravated Assault 97
Burglary 272
Larceny-Theft 1,019
Motor Vehicle Theft 135

Please note, these numbers are approximate and subject to change as new data becomes available. Always refer to the latest official reports for the most accurate information.