countyscore
46
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.8Schools 91.4Health 90.5

County Report Card

About Monmouth County, New Jersey

Competitive Standing Against National Peers

Monmouth County scores a 46.0, putting it within striking distance of the 50.0 national median. This reflects a high standard of living that is only moderated by the regional cost of housing.

Outperforming the State Average

Monmouth’s 46.0 score surpasses the New Jersey average of 41.4. It is widely considered one of the state's more desirable counties due to its balance of coastal amenities and strong social metrics.

Excellent Education and Personal Wealth

The county boasts an elite income score of 98.8, with a median household income of $122,727. Its school score of 91.4 and health score of 90.5 are among the best in the state.

Housing Costs and Climate Risk

With a median home value of $566,500, the county has a low cost score of 2.0. Additionally, its risk score of 3.7 reflects the vulnerabilities inherent to a coastal New Jersey community.

The Gold Standard for Coastal Families

Monmouth is perfect for established families and professionals seeking premium schools and a high-income lifestyle near the shore. It is a premier choice for those who view housing as a long-term quality-of-life investment.

Score breakdown

Tax5.7Cost2Safety44Health90.5Schools91.4Income98.8Risk3.7Water57.5Weather60.9
🏛5.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡44
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤90.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓91.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡3.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧57.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨36.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱49.6
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

Middlesex County
New Jersey
41.9
Richmond County
New York
47.1
Mercer County
New Jersey
35
Union County
New Jersey
35.3
Somerset County
New Jersey
51.4
Kings County
New York
55.2
Ocean County
New Jersey
47.4
Hudson County
New Jersey
33.6

Deep Dives

Monmouth County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Monmouth County

via TaxByCounty

Monmouth taxes rank in bottom third

Monmouth County's 1.765% effective tax rate places it well below the national median of 2.11%, ranking in the bottom 20% of U.S. counties. Despite this favorable rate, the median property tax reaches $10,001 because Monmouth homes are among the most expensive in the nation, averaging $566,500.

Monmouth ranks lowest in New Jersey

Monmouth County's 1.765% effective tax rate is the lowest in New Jersey, sitting significantly below the state average of 2.211%. This distinction makes Monmouth a relative tax haven within high-tax New Jersey.

Monmouth leads regional tax advantage

Monmouth's 1.765% rate beats every regional peer—Hudson (1.851%), Morris (1.796%), Ocean (1.773%), and Hunterdon (2.005%). Only Ocean comes close, but Monmouth's lower rate applies to substantially higher-value properties.

A $566K home costs $10,001 yearly

The median Monmouth County home is valued at $566,500, the highest in this county cluster, resulting in $10,001 in annual property taxes. This bill remains constant regardless of mortgage status.

Even Monmouth homeowners can appeal

Monmouth's low rate doesn't protect against overassessment—roughly 15-20% of Jersey properties across all counties are valued above fair market value. Filing an appeal with the county assessor can challenge inflated valuations and potentially reduce your bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Monmouth County

via CostByCounty

Monmouth's affluence eases housing costs

Monmouth County achieves a 17.3% rent-to-income ratio—well below New Jersey's 19.1% average—powered by a median household income of $122,727 and median rent of $1,771. This combination of strong earnings and relatively moderate rents makes Monmouth one of New Jersey's most affordable counties for renters.

Monmouth ranks among Jersey's best

At 17.3%, Monmouth's rent-to-income ratio ranks among New Jersey's lowest, significantly outperforming the state average of 19.1%. The county's high median income of $122,727 is the real affordability engine, allowing residents to handle coastal rents without strain.

Strongest income in Jersey's central coast

Monmouth's median income of $122,727 exceeds Middlesex ($109,028), Hudson ($90,032), and Ocean ($86,411), while its median rent of $1,771 stays competitive. This combination makes Monmouth the central-Jersey coastal option for affluent renters seeking affordability.

Coastal living without the squeeze

Renters pay $1,771 monthly while homeowners face $2,364, with the median household income of $122,727 easily supporting both. At 17.3% of income, Monmouth rents consume the smallest share of any county in this analysis, leaving room for savings and lifestyle choices.

Best coastal affordability in Jersey

Monmouth offers the rare combination of coastal New Jersey living with strong affordability—17.3% rent-to-income ratio and median income of $122,727. If you're seeking Jersey shore proximity without financial strain, Monmouth's towns provide the best balance statewide.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Monmouth County

via IncomeByCounty

Monmouth County earns 64% above national median

Monmouth County's median household income of $122,727 significantly exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it $47,972 ahead and ranking among the nation's most affluent counties. This performance reflects a prosperous coastal economy with strong professional employment and robust property values.

Third-wealthiest county in New Jersey

At $122,727, Monmouth County ranks third among New Jersey's 21 counties, exceeding the state median of $100,891 by $21,836. Only Morris and Hunterdon counties surpass Monmouth's household earnings, reflecting the county's concentration of affluent suburbs.

Monmouth leads most regional competitors

Monmouth County's $122,727 median income significantly outpaces Ocean County ($86,411), Hudson County ($90,032), and Mercer County ($96,333), trailing only the wealthy northern counties of Morris and Hunterdon. The income advantage reflects Monmouth's reputation as a premier residential destination for high-earning professionals.

Strong affordability despite high home values

Monmouth residents spend 17.3% of household income on rent, well below the 20% affordability threshold and among the best statewide. Despite a median home value of $566,500—the second-highest in this comparison—the county's strong incomes support homeownership without excessive cost burden.

Maximize wealth-building opportunities

With a median household income of $122,727 and excellent housing affordability, Monmouth County residents have substantial capacity to invest in multiple wealth-building vehicles simultaneously. Prioritize maxing retirement accounts, investing in real estate or rental properties, and establishing diversified stock portfolios to compound wealth over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Monmouth County

via CrimeByCounty

Exemplary Shore Safety

Monmouth County boasts a safety score of 98.0, with a total crime rate of 1,259.5 per 100,000 residents. This is nearly half the national average rate of 2,385.5.

Outperforming the State Average

Monmouth is safer than the average New Jersey county, where the typical crime rate is 1,525.9. Its safety score also beats the state average of 97.6.

Regional Context for Monmouth

The county sees slightly more crime than Ocean County (904.0) but remains significantly safer than Mercer County (1,967.0). Fifty-three reporting agencies provide comprehensive coverage across the region.

Violent vs Property Crime

Violent crime is low at 123.2 per 100,000, while property crime makes up the bulk of reports at 1,136.3. These statistics reflect a community where personal safety is generally very high.

Securing Your Shore Property

Because property crimes are the primary concern, locking doors and windows is the most effective deterrent. Motion-sensor lighting can also discourage nighttime theft in residential areas.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Monmouth County

via HealthByCounty

Monmouth County extends life expectancy

At 79.7 years, Monmouth County residents live 2.5 years longer than the US average of 77.2 years. The county's 12.6% poor or fair health rate is below the national average of 13.1%, indicating above-average overall health status.

Above-average outcomes in New Jersey

Monmouth County's 79.7-year life expectancy exceeds New Jersey's state average of 78.5 years by 1.2 years, placing it among the state's top performers. The county's strong health metrics reflect effective community health strategies.

Best-in-class insurance coverage rates

Monmouth County's 6.1% uninsured rate is the lowest among its neighbors, beating Hudson (10.4%) and Mercer (8.7%) significantly. With 110 primary care and 371 mental health providers per 100K, Monmouth offers excellent access to care.

Coverage and access fuel health success

Monmouth's 6.1% uninsured rate ensures most residents can afford preventive and emergency care, supporting the county's strong life expectancy. The 110 primary care providers per 100K and 371 mental health providers per 100K create robust pathways to care.

Join Monmouth's insured majority

If you're among Monmouth's uninsured 6.1%, healthcare.gov and Get Covered NJ at getcoverednj.org help you find coverage. Joining the county's well-insured population connects you to abundant providers supporting excellent health outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Monmouth County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Coastal Network of Schools

Monmouth County features 183 public schools across a staggering 57 districts, serving 91,562 students. The county is well-equipped for all ages with 105 elementary, 36 middle, and 36 high schools.

Top Performance and High Investment

Monmouth boasts a 94.7% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national 87.0% benchmark. This success is supported by a $14,010 per-pupil expenditure, which exceeds both the state and national spending averages.

Middletown and Regional High Schools

Middletown Township is the largest district with 8,955 students, though the Freehold Regional district manages several massive high schools. Charter schools are a small factor here, with only 4 schools representing 2.2% of the total count.

Suburban Life Near the Shore

Almost all of Monmouth's schools (171) are in suburban locales, with an average enrollment of 503 students. Howell High School is the county's largest with 2,011 students, offering a comprehensive high school experience.

Educational Excellence by the Sea

Monmouth County’s high school scores and graduation rates are key drivers for the local real estate market. Families moving here can choose from dozens of districts, each offering unique suburban character and strong academic results.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Monmouth County

via RiskByCounty

Monmouth County carries above-average disaster risk

Monmouth County scores 96.31 out of 100 for composite risk, placing it in the relatively high category and substantially above national and state averages. This score reflects the county's coastal exposure and vulnerability to multiple hazard types.

Fourth-highest risk in New Jersey

Monmouth County ranks fourth statewide in disaster risk with a composite score of 96.31, trailing only Middlesex, Hudson, and Mercer counties. Its score exceeds the state average of 90.81 by more than 5 points.

More exposed than inland counterparts

Monmouth County (96.31) carries higher risk than Ocean County (96.15) to the north and substantially more than Morris County (92.88) inland. Its coastal location drives elevated flood and hurricane exposure compared to neighboring counties.

Coastal flooding and wildfires lead

Monmouth County faces flood risk at 95.80, driven by its extensive Atlantic coastline and coastal plain geography. Wildfire risk scores an unusually high 88.77 for New Jersey, while hurricane risk (93.07) and earthquake risk (93.96) round out significant multi-hazard exposure.

Flood and wind insurance are essential

Monmouth County residents should prioritize flood insurance given the 95.80 flood risk score and coastal storm exposure. Add comprehensive windstorm coverage, ensure your homeowner policy is current, and maintain emergency supplies for hurricane season.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Monmouth County

via WeatherByCounty

A mild coastal climate profile

Monmouth County averages 53.9°F annually, placing it slightly above the national median. Proximity to the Atlantic Ocean helps moderate the sharper temperature swings found further inland.

Warmer than the state median

At 53.9°F, the county is warmer than the New Jersey state average of 53.6°F. This coastal warmth is particularly evident during the winter months.

Lush precipitation compared to inland

Monmouth receives 50.5 inches of annual rain, which is 4 inches more than Mercer County. This moisture supports a vibrant coastal ecosystem and high humidity.

Temperate winters and humid July

January averages 32.8°F, staying just above the freezing mark. While specific snowfall data is limited for this region, the county experiences 21 days of extreme heat annually.

Managing humidity and coastal storms

Dehumidifiers are a vital home addition due to the 50.5 inches of annual precipitation and coastal air. Residents should plan for 21 days of heat while monitoring for coastal weather shifts.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Monmouth County

via SoilByCounty

Sandy Entisols of the Shore

Monmouth County is dominated by Entisols, characterized by a pH of 5.03. This is more alkaline than the state average of 4.24 but still more acidic than the national 6.5 median. These soils represent relatively young geologic formations common along the Atlantic coast.

High Sand Content and Silt Loams

With a massive 64.2% sand content and only 9.9% clay, the soil is physically dominated by coarse particles. Despite this, the dominant texture is classified as silt loam in many areas. This creates a unique mix that feels light to the touch but retains a powdery silty quality.

High Carbon, Lower Water Holding

The organic matter content is strong at 8.14%, far outpacing the 2.0% national benchmark. However, the available water capacity is low at 0.131 in/in compared to the state average of 0.168. Gardeners must watch for fast drying times because the high sand content allows water to pass through quickly.

Excessively Drained Coastal Plains

The county's soil is 'Excessively drained,' meaning water moves through the profile very rapidly. While this is great for preventing soggy yards, it can be a challenge for thirsty crops during July and August. Careful irrigation planning is required for any serious agricultural endeavor here.

Gardening in the 7b Coastal Climate

The 7b hardiness zone offers mild winters and a lengthy summer, perfect for coastal gardening. Native shore plants and hardy herbs thrive in these fast-draining, sandy conditions. Consider planting drought-tolerant species that love the sun and the quick-drying Entisol soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Monmouth County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Conditions in Monmouth

Monmouth County scores a 49.6 for lawn difficulty, making it slightly easier than the state average of 48.0 and nearly identical to the national median. This hardiness zone 7b area benefits from a temperate coastal influence that moderates extreme conditions. It is one of the more predictable places in New Jersey to maintain a healthy yard.

Favorable Growth Windows

At 50.5 inches of annual rain, Monmouth is slightly above the ideal 50-inch threshold, ensuring plenty of natural moisture. The county experiences 21 extreme heat days, which is lower than the state average and helps prevent grass from scorching. Your growing season is quite long, stretching from mid-April to early November.

Sandy Silt Loam Challenges

The soil is characterized as excessively drained with a high sand content of 64.2%. While the silt loam texture is generally good, a pH of 5.03 means you will still need lime to reach the 6.0-7.0 ideal range. Because it drains so quickly, your lawn may require more frequent, light watering than inland counties.

Watering Wisely on the Coast

Despite the rain, the county saw 30 weeks of drought in the past year, and the entire area is currently abnormally dry. Sandy soils lose moisture fast, so adding compost can help improve the water-holding capacity of your lawn. Pay close attention to local weather alerts to adjust your sprinkler schedule during these dry spells.

Seeding for Success

Tall fescues and zoyziagrass are great options for the well-drained, sandy soils of zone 7b. Start your seeding projects after the April 17th frost date to take advantage of the warming soil and spring rains. Monmouth's long season means you have until November 3rd before the first freeze puts the grass to sleep.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Monmouth County's county score?
Monmouth County, New Jersey has a composite county score of 46 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 Monmouth County rank among counties in New Jersey?
Monmouth County ranks #9 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 Monmouth County, New Jersey?
The median annual property tax in Monmouth County is $10,001, with an effective tax rate of 1.77%. This earns Monmouth County a tax score of 5.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Monmouth County?
The median household income in Monmouth County, New Jersey is $122,727 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Monmouth County earns an income score of 98.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Monmouth County, New Jersey a good place to live?
Monmouth County scores 46/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in New Jersey. The best way to evaluate Monmouth 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 Monmouth 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.