Exploring Senior Demographics of New Jersey
Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by Rachel
Introduction
Nestled between the bustling metropolises of New York City and Philadelphia, New Jersey stands as a diverse and dynamic state with a rich cultural tapestry. Home to scenic landscapes, vibrant communities, and a robust history, New Jersey has become a haven for individuals of all ages. As we delve into the American Community Survey 2022 Census data, a spotlight is cast on the senior population aged 65 and over, offering insights into the demographics and characteristics that define this significant segment of the Garden State.
Population (Sex And Age, Race)
The senior population in New Jersey paints a vivid picture of diversity and resilience. With a total population of 9,261,699, seniors make up a substantial 17.40%. This demographic is characterized by a nearly equal distribution between genders, with 43.9% being male and 56.1% female. The median age stands at 73.5, reflecting a seasoned community with a wealth of experiences to share. Racially, New Jersey’s senior landscape is predominantly White (92.8%), with smaller percentages representing other racial backgrounds, contributing to the state’s multicultural essence.
Relationship
Within households, seniors in New Jersey exhibit strong familial ties, with 70.3% serving as either householders or spouses. The close-knit nature of families is further highlighted by the 9.6% who are parents, emphasizing the intergenerational connections within the state.
Households
Households in New Jersey are diverse, with family households comprising 73.5%, of which 44.9% are married-couple families. Nonfamily households, accounting for 26.5%, include individuals living alone (21.6%), reflecting the independence and individuality of some seniors.
Marital Status
The marital landscape showcases the varied journeys of seniors, with 42.9% currently married, except separated, while 44.9% have experienced the profound transition of widowhood. Additionally, 13.0% are divorced, 1.7% are separated, and 8.3% have never married, highlighting the diverse marital experiences within the senior demographic.
Education Status
New Jersey’s senior population demonstrates a commitment to education, with 55.4% holding a high school diploma or equivalent, and 21.3% pursuing some college or an associate’s degree. A notable 35.2% have achieved a bachelor’s degree or higher, underlining a dedication to lifelong learning and intellectual enrichment.
Responsibility For Grandchildren Under 18 Years
The familial dedication of seniors extends to responsibilities for grandchildren under 18 years, with 5.6% living with and 1.0% being responsible for the care of their grandchildren, contributing to the stability and support within the family structure.
Veteran Status
New Jersey’s senior community includes a proud 9.9% who are veterans, embodying a legacy of service and sacrifice in the defense of the nation.
Disability Status
Within the civilian noninstitutionalized population, 29.9% of seniors in New Jersey report having some form of disability, emphasizing the importance of accessible services and accommodations to support this segment of the population.
Residence Status
The majority of seniors in New Jersey exhibit a strong connection to their homes, with 75.2% residing in the same house over the past year, fostering a sense of stability and continuity.
Citizenship Status (Place Of Birth, Nativity, Year Of Entry)
The demographic composition reflects a primarily native-born population (75.2%), with a smaller percentage (24.8%) representing those who have moved within the United States. This interplay of native and non-native-born seniors contributes to the diverse cultural milieu of New Jersey.
Language Status
Linguistically, English stands as the predominant language in 92.8% of households, while 7.2% engage in languages other than English, showcasing a linguistic diversity that adds vibrancy to the state’s cultural fabric. The subset of seniors who speak English less than “very well” constitutes 1.3%, highlighting the importance of language support services.
Employment Status
In assessing the economic landscape of New Jersey’s senior population, employment status emerges as a pivotal factor. Within this demographic, 9.9% are engaged in the labor force, with 9.3% actively employed and a minimal 0.2% currently unemployed, representing a resilient and industrious segment of the senior community.
Income Status (Household Earnings, Social Security Income, Supplemental Security Income, Cash Public Assistance Income, Retirement Income, Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits)
Households
The financial well-being of New Jersey’s seniors is multifaceted, with 988,129 households contributing to the economic fabric of the state. Diving into the intricacies of income sources:
With Earnings
42.7% of senior households report earnings, with a mean income of $92,686, underscoring the continued contribution of seniors to the workforce.
With Social Security Income
A substantial 86.8% receive Social Security income, with an average income of $26,316, providing a crucial financial safety net for a significant portion of the senior community.
With Supplemental Security Income
6.4% benefit from Supplemental Security Income, with an average of $10,982, offering additional financial support to those in need.
With Cash Public Assistance Income
A modest 2.0% report cash public assistance income, with an average of $4,882, reflecting targeted assistance to specific households.
With Retirement Income
59.1% enjoy retirement income, with a mean of $38,537, showcasing the fruits of a lifetime of work and financial planning.
With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits
8.8% receive Food Stamp/SNAP benefits, emphasizing the importance of nutritional support within the senior demographic.
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Poverty Status
For 1,576,502 seniors in New Jersey, poverty status provides a lens into the economic challenges and successes within the senior community:
Below 100 Percent of the Poverty Level
10.0% of seniors face economic challenges below the poverty level, highlighting the need for targeted support.
100 to 149 Percent of the Poverty Level
6.0% navigate financial circumstances within the range of 100 to 149 percent of the poverty level.
At or Above 150 Percent of the Poverty Level
A substantial 83.9% of seniors enjoy economic stability at or above 150 percent of the poverty level.
Housing Status (Occupied Housing Units, Owner-Occupied Housing Units, Renter-Occupied Housing Units)
Examining the housing landscape provides insights into the living arrangements and preferences of seniors in New Jersey:
Occupied Housing Units
Alluding to a stable community, 988,129 housing units are occupied, reflecting the enduring attachment of seniors to their residences.
Owner-Occupied Housing Units
75.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied, signifying a strong sense of property ownership and permanence.
Renter-Occupied Housing Units
24.9% of seniors opt for rental housing units, illustrating a degree of flexibility and a desire for a maintenance-free living arrangement.
Average Household Size of Owner-Occupied Unit
The average household size for owner-occupied units is 1.99, portraying a preference for smaller, more manageable living spaces.
Average Household Size of Renter-Occupied Unit
Renter-occupied units exhibit an average household size of 1.51, emphasizing the efficiency and convenience of rental living.
Selected Characteristics
Within the housing landscape, specific characteristics shed light on the accessibility and quality of living:
No Telephone Service Available
A mere 1.0% of seniors lack telephone service, underlining the widespread connectivity within the community.
1.01 or More Occupants Per Room
A negligible 0.9% of seniors experience crowded living conditions, emphasizing the generally comfortable housing situations within the senior demographic.
Owner-Occupied Housing Units
Delving deeper into the characteristics of owner-occupied units unveils nuances in housing costs and values:
Selected Monthly Owner Costs as a Percentage of Household Income
65.5% of owners experience housing costs below 30% of their income, ensuring financial stability. Meanwhile, 34.5% dedicate 30% or more of their income to housing expenses.
Owner Characteristics
The median value of owner-occupied housing units stands at $393,700, reflecting the overall prosperity of this segment of the senior community. Monthly costs with a mortgage average $2,147, while those without a mortgage average $1,087, painting a comprehensive picture of the financial landscape.
Renter-Occupied Housing Units
Rental units further enrich our understanding of housing dynamics among seniors:
Gross Rent as a Percentage of Household Income
42.7% of renters allocate less than 30% of their income to rent, ensuring financial comfort. However, 57.3% spend 30% or more, highlighting the economic considerations within this housing segment.
Gross Rent
The median gross rent for New Jersey seniors in rental units is $1,178, capturing the reasonable yet diverse rental pricing in the state.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the detailed examination of New Jersey’s senior population provides a comprehensive understanding of the demographic, economic, and housing dynamics. From the diversity in relationships, education, and veteran status to the intricate details of income sources, poverty status, and housing characteristics, these insights equip policymakers, community leaders, and service providers to tailor their initiatives for the well-being and prosperity of the state’s seniors. New Jersey’s seniors, with their rich experiences and diverse backgrounds, continue to shape the cultural and economic landscape of the Garden State, fostering a community that values inclusivity, resilience, and a high quality of life.