Paterson, New Jersey

📍 👥 Pop. 157,864 🏠 ZIP 07501
63
/100
ReloCompare™
Median Income
$52,092
per household/year
Home Value
$314,100
median
Rent
$1,392
per month
Unemployment
5.4%
vs 3.7% national
Air Quality
17
Good
Internet
N/A
Mbps max • No fiber

📋 Living in Paterson, NJ — Overview

Mild Summers Clean Air

Paterson, New Jersey scores 63/100 on ReloCompare™, indicating a solid overall quality of life across key metrics. With 157,864 residents, it's a mid-size city that balances urban amenities with a more manageable pace of life. With a price-to-income ratio of 6x, housing affordability is a concern — buyers may need dual incomes or significant savings. The area has seen 14 federally declared disasters over 20 years, representing moderate natural risk.

📉 Unemployment above national average — research your industry before relocating

Score Breakdown

💰 Affordability
65
Home Value: $314,100
Rent: $1,392/mo
Electricity: ¢/kWh
💼 Job Market
35
Unemployment: 5.4%
Median Income: $52,092
Job Growth: % YoY
🌡️ Climate
50
Summer High: °F
Winter Low: °F
Sunny Days: /year
🌿 Environment
100
Air Quality: AQI 17 (Good)
Toxic Sites: 0 in area
Water: No violations ✓
🌐 Infrastructure
50
Internet: N/A Mbps
Fiber: Not available
Solar: kWh/m²/day
⚠️ Natural Risks
95
Disasters (20yr): 14
Flood Zone: None
Earthquake: Low
🌿 Environment Analysis: Air quality in Paterson is excellent with a current AQI of 17 — well within EPA's "Good" range, ideal for outdoor exercise and those with respiratory sensitivities.
⚠️ Safety Analysis: With 14 federal disaster declarations in 20 years, natural disaster risk in Paterson is elevated. Budget for comprehensive insurance and consider flood zone status. Hurricane risk is rated High.
💰 Affordability Analysis: Housing affordability is a challenge in Paterson, where the price-to-income ratio reaches 6x. With 32% of median income going to rent, dual-income households or higher-paying careers may be necessary for comfortable living.
📊 See Full City Rankings →

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🎯 What Makes Paterson Stand Out

Paterson's strongest attributes are environment and safety, where it outperforms many comparable cities. Areas where Paterson faces challenges include job market — factors to weigh against its strengths when making your decision. Overall, Paterson may be the best fit for safety-conscious retirees.


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