Middlesex County Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Middlesex County, NJ has a population of approximately 863,162. The median age is 39.8 years, with females comprising 50.7% and males 49.3%. The racial and ethnic composition is 39.6% White (non-Hispanic), 24.5% Asian, 19.8% Hispanic or Latino, 10.5% Black or African American, and 5.6% other or multiracial. Middlesex County is one of the most diverse in New Jersey, with significant representation across many communities.

Middlesex County Elections

Middlesex County, NJ, had 553,000 registered voters in 2023, split between Democrats (47%), Republicans (22%), and Unaffiliated (31%). The county administers general, primary, school board, and special elections, with over 250 polling locations. In the 2022 general election, turnout was about 48%. Key issues include property taxes and education funding. Election results are posted online by the Middlesex County Board of Elections. Administration is bipartisan, ensuring party representation at each site. Democrats generally dominate local and countywide offices, mirroring registration trends. Voters can cast ballots in person or by mail, with secure drop boxes available.

Middlesex County Housing

Middlesex County, NJ, features a homeownership rate of about 61%, with median home values around $430,000 and median gross rents near $1,700/month. The housing market shows a steady annual appreciation of 4–6%. Housing types range from single-family homes and townhouses to apartments. Popular neighborhoods include Edison, East Brunswick, and New Brunswick. Property tax rates average 2.2%, translating to roughly $9,400 on a median-priced home. The county offers diverse communities and convenient access to NYC.

Employment in Middlesex County

Middlesex County, NJ had an unemployment rate of approximately 3.7% in early 2024. Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance (16%), professional and technical services (11%), and manufacturing (10%). Leading occupations are in management, business, science, and arts (40%). About 77% of residents commute by car, with an average travel time of 32 minutes, and around 32% work outside the county, primarily commuting to New York City and other areas in northern New Jersey.

Education in Middlesex County

Middlesex County, NJ hosts over 100 public schools, with 31 high schools and multiple private institutions. Approximately 40% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. High school graduation rates exceed 90%, while average SAT scores hover around 1150. The county offers robust adult education programs and technical training through Middlesex College and vocational schools. School safety is prioritized, with most districts reporting minimal incidents annually. Notable academic programs include STEM, Advanced Placement, and gifted & talented tracks, contributing to consistently above-average state educational rankings.

Middlesex County Crime & Safety

Middlesex County, NJ, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with 2022 data showing a violent crime rate of 1.7 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 10.5 per 1,000. The county reported approximately 1,500 violent crimes and 9,000 property crimes in 2022. Law enforcement utilizes community reporting and Neighborhood Watch programs to enhance safety. Overall, Middlesex County is considered relatively safe, with crime rates declining by about 4% over the past five years.