More than 54.1% of New Jersey homes are selling at or below the list price. So, if you are dreaming of affordable living in the Garden State? It’s more attainable than you might think! For young adults, Trenton offers job growth and home prices 25.3% below the US median.
Cities like Vineland, where housing costs are 29.7% lower than the US average, it sure thrives for families. Besides, retirees love Gloucester City, which has 4% lower healthcare costs and scenic spots like Proprietor’s Park Riverwalk. So, don’t wait, explore the 10 cheapest places to live in New Jersey!
10 Cheapest Places to Live in New Jersey in 2025
| City | Median Home Value | Median House Rent | Cost of Living Compared to National or State Average | Median Household Income | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Camden | $138,452 | $1,700 | 5.8% lower ⬇️ | $40,450 | 71,100 |
| 2. Gloucester City | $227,696 | $1,900 | 5.8% lower ⬇️ | $70,942 | 66,239 |
| 3. Vineland | $290,873 | $1,629 | 14.4% lower ⬇️ | $65,854 | 60,797 |
| 4. Absecon | $327,522 | $1,900 | 6.1% lower ⬇️ | $77,516 | 9,130 |
| 5. Trenton | $337,374 | $1,850 | 12.7% lower ⬇️ | $47,102 | 89,620 |
| 6. Pitman | $339,346 | $2,400 | 15.8% lower ⬇️ | $96,199 | 8,880 |
| 7. Highstown | $441,391 | $2,550 | 12.7% lower ⬇️ | $107,431 | 5,853 |
| 8. Atlantic City | $215,336 | $1,900 | 6.1% lower ⬇️ | $36,220 | 38,464 |
| 9. Phillipsburg | $318,225 | $1,675 | 12.6% lower ⬇️ | $67,782 | 15,328 |
| 10. Clayton | $291,310 | $1,800 | 15.8% lower ⬇️ | $89,375 | 8,948 |
*These cities are ranked based on our research methodology.
We have divided the top 10 most affordable places to live in New Jersey into three categories: for families, for young adults, and for retirees. Each city is evaluated based on key components of the New Jersey real estate market: median home value, median house rent and cost of living.
3 Cheapest Places to Live In New Jersey for Families 👨🏻👩🏻👧🏻👦🏻
1. Clayton
- Median House Rent: $2,200
- Median Home Value: $302,557
- Cost of Living: 15.8% cheaper than the state average.
Clayton is where affordability meets suburban charm, with home prices 35% below the US median, so yes, you can finally afford that backyard BBQ setup! The schools here are solid, and healthcare is 6.5% cheaper than the national average.
The job market isn’t too shabby either, thanks to major employers like Aura Badge Company. And when the weekend rolls around, you can trade spreadsheets for nature trails, because nothing says “family bonding” like getting lost in the woods together.
» Clayton Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the cheapest cities to live in New Jersey.
2. Pitman
- Median House Rent: $1,950
- Median Home Value: $339,026
- Cost of Living: 15.8% cheaper than the state average.
Average housing price in Pitman is 21.9% lower than the national average, which proves that small-town vibes and affordability can go hand in hand. Plus, the Pitman Gallery & Art Center gives you a cultured excuse to leave the house.
Healthcare here is 6.5% cheaper than the national average, so you can save on your weekend trips. Besides, Rowan University provides quality education for your kids here. With top employers like K-Tron Electronics and Pitman School District, you get plenty of jobs.
» Pitman Homes for Sale: Find a home in one of the inexpensive places to reside in NJ.
3. Vineland
- Median House Rent: $1,710
- Median Home Value: $289,513
- Cost of Living: 14.4% cheaper than the national average.
Vineland is a place where your wallet can breathe easy while your family thrives. With housing prices 29.7% cheaper than the US average, it won’t give you a heart attack. Besides, the city is well-connected with major highways and public transport, which makes life easy.
Jobs are also stable, thanks to Inspira Health Network and Walmart. Apart from this, if you’re into quirky spots, the Palace of Depression will give you a story to tell. Plus, the Delsea Drive-In lets you enjoy movies under the stars—because who needs a fancy theater?
» Vineland Homes for Sale: Discover homes in one of the most affordable places to live in NJ.
3 Affordable Places to Live In New Jersey for Young Adults 🧑🏻💻
1. Absecon
- Median House Rent: $1,950
- Median Home Value: $325,365
- Cost of Living: 6.1% cheaper than the national average.
Absecon is like Atlantic City’s quieter, more responsible sibling—close enough to the action but far enough to get some sleep. The cost of living is on your side, with transportation being 12% cheaper than the national average, it’s a good choice.
Major employers like McCarthy Tire Service and KHS&S Contractors, keeps the job market steady. Plus, if you ever feel the need for a break, Atlantic City’s casinos, beaches, and boardwalks are just a short drive away—because who said adulting can’t be fun?
» Abescon Homes for Sale: Get yourself houses in one of the cheap areas to live in NJ.
2. Trenton
- Median House Rent: $2,000
- Median Home Value: $335,643
- Cost of Living: 12.7% cheaper than the state average.
Trenton, a city where history meets hustle! As the state capital, it has just the right mix of urban energy and affordable living. Housing costs here are 21.7% lower than the national average, so you might save enough to splurge on that overpriced oat milk latte.
Job seekers, rejoice! NJM Insurance Group and Hutchinson are top employers, which makes Trenton an ideal spot for young adults. And when work gets too much, you can always unwind by exploring historic landmarks like Old Barracks Museum and Trenton Battle Monument.
» Trenton Homes for Sale: Check out properties in one of the cheap places to live in New Jersey.
3. Atlantic City
- Median House Rent: $1,995
- Median Home Value: $214,734
- Cost of Living: 6.1% cheaper than the national average.
If you want affordability with a side of neon lights and non-stop entertainment, Atlantic City is your place. Housing here is a steal, and the cost of transportation is 64.6% below the US average—so yes, you can get around without breaking the bank.
The city also offers job opportunities at Borgata Casino and Atlantic Cape Community College. And if you ever need a break from adult responsibilities, just hit up the Boardwalk or Steel Pier Amusement Park for roller coasters and fun activities.
» Atlantic City Homes for Sale: Get yourself a home in one of the cheapest cities to live in New Jersey.
4 Cheapest Places to Live In New Jersey for Retirees 🏖️
1. Camden
- Median House Rent: $1,650
- Median Home Value: $137,958
- Cost of Living: 5.8% cheaper than the national average.
This underdog city is like that quirky aunt who surprises you with her charm. For retirees, Camden is a budget-friendly haven with healthcare costs 11.2% less than the US median. But wait, there’s more! Need a check-up? Cooper University Hospital has your back.
Now, let’s talk fun. The Adventure Aquarium isn’t just for kids, it’s for anyone who loves watching penguins waddle or sharks glide overhead. Also, the Camden Waterfront is perfect for those scenic sunset strolls, you’ll forget you’re not in a postcard.
2. Phillipsburg
- Median House Rent: $1,800
- Median Home Value: $318,983
- Cost of Living: 12.6% cheaper than the state average.
Phillipsburg offers affordability without sacrificing charm, historic vibes, community events, and an overall stress-free pace of life. Housing here is 26.2% cheaper than the national average, so that retirement fund might last.
Shappell Park keeps retirees active with the Railroad Festival, featuring a gazebo and picnic tables. Plus, with scenic Delaware River views, you can spend your golden years staring at something other than a bank statement.
» Phillipsburg Homes for Sale: Explore the cheap areas to live in NJ and discover affordable homes.
3. Hightstown
- Median House Rent: $2,400
- Median Home Value: $439,912
- Cost of Living: 12.7% cheaper than the state average.
Hightstown is the kind of town that whispers, ‘Relax, but stay curious’. With a walkability score of 71, this town is perfect for those who love to stroll, explore, and stay active without needing a car for every little errand.
When it comes to healthcare, Hightstown has facilities like Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center, which is just a 15-minute drive away. Besides, retirees who love history can visit the Civil War Memorial Park, which is a peaceful spot to reflect on the town’s past.
» Hightstown Homes for Sale: Search affordable homes for sale in NJ.
4. Gloucester City
- Median House Rent: $1,850
- Median Home Value: $228,406
- Cost of Living: 5.8% cheaper than the national average.
Gloucester City is one of the affordable towns in NJ. The cost of living won’t eat away your savings, and healthcare here is 4.9% cheaper than the US median—so more money for golf, less for doctor bills.
The city’s highlight? The beautiful Proprietor’s Park Riverwalk, perfect for relaxing walks or people-watching. With affordable housing and friendly neighbors, it’s a solid place to slow down and enjoy your retirement life.
» Gloucester City Homes for Sale: Search homes in one of the cheapest place to live in NJ.
So, Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in New Jersey?
You will find cheap houses for sale in New Jersey under 250K in cities like Camden, Gloucester City, and Vineland. They also offer stable job opportunities, and a low cost of living, which is more affordable than other New Jersey cities.
To make your search easier, use Houzeo, New Jersey’s best home-buying website. Browse up-to-date listings, filter by budget, and make offers online in just a few clicks.
Find an Affordable House With Houzeo
With thousands of property listings, Houzeo.com is one of the biggest home search websites in the US. Find condos, townhouses, co-ops, and other types of tiny homes for sale in New Jersey on Houzeo.
» Need More Clarity? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.
Research Methodology
This study ranks cities using a weighted average scoring model based on four parameters. We’ve linked the resources used in our study of the cheapest places to live in the Garden State:
