countyscore
33.6
County Score
Income & Jobs 92Water Quality 71.1Health 67.8

County Report Card

About Hudson County, New Jersey

Urban Livability Trails the National Median

Hudson County holds a composite score of 33.6, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects the intense pressures facing high-density urban corridors compared to more suburban national peers.

Falling Below the New Jersey Average

With a 33.6 score, Hudson sits below the New Jersey state average of 41.4. While it serves as a major economic engine, its overall livability index is hampered by extreme affordability challenges.

High Earnings and Quality Infrastructure

The county excels in income potential with a score of 92.0, supported by a $90,032 median household income. It also maintains a strong water quality score of 71.1 and a respectable health score of 67.8.

Significant Cost and Environmental Hurdles

Affordability is the primary struggle, evidenced by a cost score of 1.6 and median rents of $1,811. A risk score of 2.8 also highlights significant vulnerability to environmental or systemic disruptions.

A Magnet for Ambitious Urban Professionals

Hudson is best suited for high-earning individuals who prioritize proximity to NYC and career growth over housing costs. It offers an elite economic environment for those who can navigate its high price tag.

Score breakdown

Tax4.7Cost1.6Safety24.4Health67.8Schools59.6Income92Risk2.8Water71.1Weather57.6
🏛4.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠1.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼92
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡24.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤67.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓59.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡2.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧71.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨31.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱46.7
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Essex County
New Jersey
33.3
New York County
New York
56.5
Kings County
New York
55.2
Richmond County
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Bergen County
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Queens County
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Union County
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Bronx County
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Deep Dives

Hudson County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Hudson County

via TaxByCounty

Hudson taxes trail U.S. average

Hudson County's 1.851% effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 2.11%, placing it in the bottom third nationally. Homeowners here pay $9,413 annually in median property tax—more than triple the $2,690 national median—because New Jersey homes are worth substantially more than the $281,900 national average.

Hudson ranks low among Jersey counties

Hudson County's 1.851% rate ranks 29th lowest among New Jersey's 21 counties, well below the state average of 2.211%. This favorable rate reflects the county's relatively high property values compared to its tax burden.

Undershooting Monmouth, beating Mercer

Hudson's 1.851% rate edges below Monmouth County (1.765%) and Morris County (1.796%), but trails Hunterdon County (2.005%) and significantly undercuts Mercer County (2.508%), which has the highest rate in this regional cluster. For comparable homes, Hudson offers a tax advantage over three of its five major neighbors.

A $508K home costs $9,413 yearly

The median Hudson County home is valued at $508,600, translating to approximately $9,413 in annual property taxes at the county's current rate. With mortgage deductions, the effective cost drops slightly to $9,499.

Many Hudson homeowners are overassessed

Studies show that roughly 15-20% of homeowners statewide are overassessed on property taxes. If you believe your Hudson County assessment doesn't match your home's market value, filing an appeal with the county tax assessor could reduce your annual bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hudson County

via CostByCounty

Hudson rents eat 24% of income

Hudson County residents spend 24.1% of their median household income on rent, well above the national average of roughly 28% for renters. With a median income of $90,032 and median rent of $1,811 per month, Hudson sits in a tighter squeeze than many parts of the country—paycheck stretched by coastal proximity and transit access.

Hudson ranks in top half statewide

Hudson's 24.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds New Jersey's state average of 19.1%, placing it among the less affordable counties in the state. While the county's median rent of $1,811 is $234 above the state average, its higher median income of $90,032 provides some cushion compared to lower-earning regions.

Pricier than Passaic, cheaper than Morris

Hudson's $1,811 median rent sits between Passaic County's more affordable $1,553 and Morris County's steeper $1,860. However, Hudson residents earn less than counterparts in Morris ($134,929) or Monmouth ($122,727), making the same or higher rents stretch thinner.

Renters feel the squeeze

Renters pay $1,811 monthly while homeowners face $2,523, leaving renters with relatively lower absolute costs but a steeper affordability burden. The typical Hudson household earning $90,032 annually dedicates nearly a quarter of gross income to housing, limiting options for savings, transit, or childcare.

Consider your housing choice carefully

If you're relocating to the Hudson area, test both renting and owning scenarios against your income—renters face the state's tighter affordability squeeze. Nearby Mercer County offers a 18.9% rent-to-income ratio and lower median rent ($1,515), worth exploring if you're flexible on location.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hudson County

via IncomeByCounty

Hudson County earns 20% above national median

Hudson County's median household income of $90,032 sits well above the U.S. median of $74,755, putting residents $15,277 ahead of the typical American household. This performance places Hudson in the upper tier nationally, though it reflects New Jersey's overall economic strength rather than exceptional county-level prosperity.

Below New Jersey's county average

At $90,032, Hudson County ranks in the middle of New Jersey's 21 counties, falling about $10,859 short of the state median of $100,891. The county's income profile reflects its diverse urban and suburban composition, with pockets of wealth alongside economically mixed neighborhoods.

Hudson trails wealthy neighbors by thousands

Hudson County's $90,032 median lags significantly behind nearby Morris County ($134,929) and Monmouth County ($122,727), but surpasses Ocean County ($86,411) and Passaic County ($87,137). The income gap highlights how proximity to New York City and local job markets create sharp economic differences across the region.

Rent consumes nearly a quarter of income

Hudson residents spend 24.1% of household income on rent, above the 20% affordability threshold and among the highest ratios in New Jersey. While the median home value of $508,600 reflects strong property markets, renters face tighter affordability constraints than homeowners in this densely populated county.

Build wealth beyond the paycheck

With a median household income of $90,032, Hudson County households have capacity to invest in retirement accounts and diversified portfolios after covering housing costs. Starting an emergency fund and automating monthly contributions to index funds can compound your wealth over decades, even amid rising housing costs.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hudson County

via CrimeByCounty

Safer than the National Average

Hudson County reports a total crime rate of 1,880.1 per 100,000 residents, remaining significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These results earn the county a high safety score of 97.0 out of 100.

Below the New Jersey Standard

While safe nationally, the county's crime rate sits above the New Jersey average of 1,525.9. It also trails slightly behind the state's average safety score of 97.6.

Regional Safety Comparison

Hudson is safer than nearby Passaic County, which sees 2,166.2 crimes per 100,000. However, it experiences higher crime activity than its neighbor to the south, Middlesex County.

Understanding Local Crime Trends

Property crimes account for the majority of incidents at 1,577.7 per 100,000, while violent crime is much lower at 302.4. Most reported offenses involve theft or burglary rather than physical harm.

Stay Secure in Hudson

High safety scores are no reason to ignore basic security measures like smart locks and outdoor cameras. Staying informed through the 16 local reporting agencies helps maintain these safe conditions.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hudson County

via HealthByCounty

Hudson County life expectancy exceeds US average

At 79.9 years, Hudson County residents live 2.7 years longer than the US average of 77.2 years. The county's 16.8% poor or fair health rate is above the national average of 13.1%, indicating room for improvement despite longer lifespans.

Ranking near top in New Jersey

Hudson County's 79.9-year life expectancy outpaces New Jersey's state average of 78.5 years by 1.4 years. This places the county among the better-performing regions statewide for longevity.

More uninsured than surrounding counties

Hudson County's 10.4% uninsured rate significantly exceeds neighbors Hunterdon (4.4%) and Monmouth (6.1%), reflecting healthcare access challenges for nearly 1 in 10 residents. However, the county boasts 106 mental health providers per 100K population, ahead of state averages.

Primary care gaps affect daily care

With just 47 primary care providers per 100K residents, Hudson County falls well below the state average, making routine doctor appointments harder to secure. The 10.4% uninsured rate means over 375,000 county residents lack health coverage, creating barriers to preventive and emergency care.

Explore coverage options today

If you're among Hudson County's uninsured, healthcare.gov and New Jersey's Get Covered NJ program help you find affordable plans. Visit getcoverednj.org or call 1-844-NJ-GETIT to learn about options that fit your budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hudson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Densely Populated Educational Hub

Hudson County manages 129 public schools, including 88 elementary and 25 high schools, across 27 distinct districts. This robust infrastructure serves 86,695 students in one of the state's most vibrant urban and suburban regions.

Graduation Rates and Investment Gaps

The county's 84.9% graduation rate trails the New Jersey state average of 91.4% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. To support student growth, the county invests $12,582 per pupil, which is slightly below the national average of $13,000.

Jersey City and Charter Options

Jersey City Public Schools is the largest district, educating 25,395 students across 39 schools. Charter schools represent a significant portion of the landscape, with 14 institutions accounting for nearly 11% of all schools in the county.

Urban and Suburban Learning Environments

Hudson offers a mix of 52 urban and 77 suburban schools, with an average school size of 672 students. Large campuses like Union City High School serve 3,025 students, creating a bustling, high-energy atmosphere for secondary education.

Find Your Home Near Top Districts

With a wide range of urban and suburban districts, Hudson County offers diverse options for families prioritizing school proximity. Consider how local school performance and specialized charter programs can influence your long-term home value.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hudson County

via RiskByCounty

Hudson County faces above-average disaster risk

Hudson County scores 97.23 out of 100 for composite disaster risk—well above the national average and placing it in the relatively high category. This score reflects significant exposure to multiple hazard types across the county's urban and waterfront communities.

Second-highest risk among NJ counties

Hudson County ranks among New Jersey's most at-risk counties, with a composite score of 97.23 compared to the state average of 90.81. Only Middlesex County edges higher, making Hudson one of the two riskiest counties in the state.

Riskier than surrounding counties

Hudson County's risk profile (97.23) exceeds nearby Passaic County (95.83) and Morris County (92.88), though it trails only Middlesex County in the region. Its flood and earthquake risks are particularly elevated compared to neighbors.

Flooding and earthquakes dominate

Hudson County faces exceptional flood risk at 98.57—among the highest in the nation—driven by its coastal and waterfront location and aging infrastructure. Earthquake risk scores 95.29, reflecting the county's proximity to regional fault lines, while tornado risk (90.71) remains significant.

Prioritize flood and earthquake coverage

Homeowners in Hudson County should secure flood insurance immediately, as standard policies don't cover flood damage and federal disaster aid is unpredictable. Consider earthquake insurance as well, given the county's high seismic risk, and maintain updated home inventory for all hazard types.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hudson County

via WeatherByCounty

A warmer urban climate than most

Hudson County records an annual average temperature of 54.8°F, placing it well above the national median. Its humid subtropical classification reflects a climate that is significantly warmer than typical U.S. interior regions.

Topping the New Jersey heat charts

The county outpaces the New Jersey state average of 53.6°F by over a full degree. This temperature profile marks it as one of the warmest jurisdictions in the state.

Warmer and wetter than regional peers

Hudson’s 50.4 inches of annual precipitation exceeds the state average of 48.1 inches. It remains warmer on average than nearby Mercer County, which sits at 53.5°F.

Intense summers and moderate snow

Residents face 31 extreme heat days per year where temperatures hit 90°F or higher. Winters bring an average of 28.2 inches of snow and a January low of 32.1°F.

Prepare for urban heat and precipitation

High-capacity HVAC systems are essential to manage the month-long stretch of extreme summer heat. Residents should also invest in quality rain gear to handle the heavy annual precipitation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hudson County

via SoilByCounty

Ultra-Acidic Soils in the Urban Core

Hudson County features an average pH of 2.70, which is dramatically more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This intense level of acidity sits well below the New Jersey state average of 4.24. While specific taxonomic data is unavailable, these readings indicate a highly unique chemical environment.

A Sandy and Coarse Mineral Foundation

The soil contains 25.0% sand, 15.4% silt, and a very low 5.3% clay content. This low clay percentage limits the soil's ability to hold onto nutrients despite the coarse texture. Workability remains high due to the lack of heavy clays, but it requires careful management.

High Organic Matter with Low Retention

The organic matter content is impressive at 12.90%, far exceeding the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity is quite low at 0.100 in/in, falling behind the state average of 0.168. This means while the soil is carbon-rich, it struggles to keep plants hydrated during dry spells.

Understanding Local Water Movement

Standard drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unlisted for this specific urban region. Gardeners should monitor for rapid runoff given the low water-holding capacity and the 25% sand content. Testing individual plots is essential where official drainage data is unavailable.

Tending the Urban Garden in 7b

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b, this area supports a long growing season for heat-tolerant vegetables and ornamentals. High-acidity lovers like blueberries or azaleas thrive here if the pH remains unadjusted. Start a container garden or raised bed to take full advantage of the warm coastal climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hudson County

via LawnByCounty

Hudson's Urban Lawn Challenge

Maintaining a lawn in Hudson County is tougher than average, with a difficulty score of 46.7 compared to the national median of 50.0. While the region sits in hardiness zone 7b, its score also falls below the New Jersey state average of 48.0. Growers here must work harder to overcome local environmental pressures to keep grass green.

High Heat and Heavy Rain

The county faces 31 extreme heat days per year, significantly higher than the state average of 23. While 50.4 inches of annual precipitation provides ample water, the high 3759 growing degree days mean grass grows rapidly and requires frequent mowing. You should plan for a long maintenance season between the April 4th last frost and November 6th first frost.

Correcting Critical Soil Acidity

The soil pH here is an extremely low 2.70, far below the ideal range of 6.0 to 7.0 for healthy turf. With only 5.3% clay and 25% sand, the soil lacks the typical structure found in suburban plots. Extensive lime applications are necessary to neutralize this acidity and allow grass to absorb essential nutrients.

Managing Stress in Dry Spells

Hudson County spent 25 weeks in drought conditions over the past year, and 100% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry. To conserve water during these periods, homeowners should prioritize deep, infrequent watering in the early morning. This approach helps roots grow deeper, providing better resilience against the 31 annual days of extreme heat.

Start Your Hudson Lawn Right

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are resilient choices for zone 7b, especially with the county's high heat profile. The best window for seeding begins after the final frost on April 4th or during the cooling temperatures of early September. Proper soil preparation is the key to success in this challenging urban environment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hudson County's county score?
Hudson County, New Jersey has a composite county score of 33.6 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Hudson County rank among counties in New Jersey?
Hudson County ranks #16 among all counties in New Jersey on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Hudson County, New Jersey?
The median annual property tax in Hudson County is $9,413, with an effective tax rate of 1.85%. This earns Hudson County a tax score of 4.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hudson County?
The median household income in Hudson County, New Jersey is $90,032 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hudson County earns an income score of 92/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hudson County, New Jersey a good place to live?
Hudson County scores 33.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #16 in New Jersey. The best way to evaluate Hudson County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Hudson County with other counties side by side.

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🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.