RentData

Average Rent in Newark, NJ↑ Rents rising 1.3% YoY

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 19,756,722

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, CensusMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Newark, NJ has rental prices ranging from $1,637/month to $3,188/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,850/month — 32% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $97,334/year, spending $1,850/month on a 1-bedroom represents 23% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Newark Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $2,233/month, Newark ranks #6 most expensive of the 11 cities tracked in New Jersey — pricier than 98% of all US cities in our data.

The Newark Rental Market

The Newark, NJ area has a population of about 19,756,722 and 49% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Newark, NJ have risen by $28/month (1.3%) over the past year, from $2,205 to $2,233. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Newark, NJ without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $74,000. The local median household income of $97,334 exceeds that threshold by $23,334, making Newark relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Newark, NJ is $480,494, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 17.9. With a break-even horizon of approximately 18 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Neighborhoods

Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Newark's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Springfield-Belmont ($344,820 median home value), Central Business District ($349,286 median home value), University Heights ($365,160 median home value). Rental prices typically follow home value patterns, with premium neighborhoods commanding higher rents than outer areas. Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2027
Studio
$1,637
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$1,850
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$2,233
↑1.3% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$2,785
Average
4 Bedrooms
$3,188
Average
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Median Home Value
$480,494
Source: Zillow ZHVI
Est. monthly payment
$2,557/mo
20% down · 30yr · 7%

Is Newark, NJ Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$89,320/year
Local median income: $97,334
To buy a median home
$102,296/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $2,233/month and 20% down on a $480,494 home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in NJlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
Bergen$1,772$1,987$2,282$2,771—
Monmouth$1,671$1,847$2,283$2,927—
Middlesex$1,953$2,103$2,623$3,125—
Jersey City$2,462$2,514$2,792$3,392—
Warren County$1,614$1,624$2,021$2,478—
Trenton$1,561$1,764$2,242$2,741—

Rent or Buy in Newark?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Newark data

$
Home Value
$480,494
2BR Rent
$2,233/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$2,557/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $3,538/movs rent: $2,233/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Mortgage Calculator

Estimate monthly payment for $480,494 home at 7% rate

20% — $96,099
3%50%
Estimated Monthly Payment
$2,557
per month · 30 years · 7% APR
Loan Amount
$384,395
Total Paid
$920,661
Total Interest
$536,266
Estimated only. Excludes taxes, insurance, HOA. Rate from FRED.

Living in Newark

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Newark

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

⚖️Rent vs Buy in Newark

Is it cheaper to rent or buy here?

💵Rent Affordability in Newark

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in NJ

See how Newark ranks statewide

⚖️Compare Newark

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📋NJ Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections