Paterson City Demographics

Paterson, in Passaic County, NJ, had a 2020 population of about 159,700. The city is ethnically diverse: 63% Hispanic or Latino (notably Dominican and Peruvian), 14% Black, 10% White (non-Hispanic), and 7% Asian. Females make up 50.4% and males 49.6%. Median age is 33 years, with 23% under 18. Paterson’s population is younger and more diverse than New Jersey overall.

Paterson City Housing

Paterson, located in Passaic County, NJ, offers diverse housing, with a 2024 median home value of about $375,000 and median rent around $1,600/month. Homeownership rates hover near 28%, while 72% of residents rent. Housing types include multi-family units, rowhouses, and historic single-family homes. Popular neighborhoods like Eastside and South Paterson show varying price trends; Eastside homes can surpass $400,000. Property taxes average 3.8%, higher than the national rate. The market has experienced a 7% annual price increase, reflecting ongoing demand despite affordability challenges.

Education in Paterson City

Paterson, located in Passaic County, NJ, has about 33 public schools, including 4 high schools, and several private/charter options. The high school graduation rate is approximately 78%, while only around 9% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below state averages. School safety has improved, but concerns persist, with Paterson schools ranking in the lower quartiles statewide. Adult education is available through the Paterson Public Schools Adult & Continuing Education program. Educational programs emphasize STEM, arts, and college prep, though average SAT scores remain below the national average at about 900.

Transportation in Paterson City

Paterson, located in Passaic County, NJ, relies primarily on cars, with about 66% of residents commuting by driving alone, while 18% use public transit, mainly NJ Transit buses and trains. The average commute time is roughly 27.6 minutes. Vehicle ownership is moderate, with around 24% of households lacking a car. The city is connected by major highways, including I-80 and Route 19, and offers transit to employment centers such as New York City and Newark. Paterson’s downtown and St. Joseph’s University Medical Center are among the city's largest employment hubs.

Paterson City Healthcare

Paterson, Passaic County, NJ, hosts major hospitals like St. Joseph’s University Medical Center (over 650 beds) and nearby clinics including federally qualified health centers. About 18% of city residents lack health insurance, above the NJ average (~8.3%). The population is 60% Hispanic/Latino and 25% Black/African American. Common health concerns include diabetes (16.3%), hypertension (31.5%), and asthma (12%). Healthcare providers per 100,000 residents trail state averages. Access barriers include language and cost, but local initiatives and clinics address preventive care and chronic disease management for underserved populations.

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