countyscore
35.3
County Score
Income & Jobs 95.3Water Quality 86Schools 68.8

County Report Card

About Union County, New Jersey

Falling below the national median

Union County’s composite score of 35.3 sits well below the national median of 50.0. While the county is wealthy, high costs and risks drag down its overall national percentile ranking.

Trailing the New Jersey average

Union County trails the state average of 41.4 by several points. This suggests that while it is an economic hub, the daily cost of living and local risks are higher than in much of the state.

Exceptional incomes and clean water

The county excels with an income score of 95.3 and a water score of 86.0. Residents earn a median household income of $100,117 and benefit from some of the highest-quality water systems in New Jersey.

High hazard risk and affordability barriers

A risk score of 4.5 and a cost score of 2.4 present significant challenges for long-term residents. High home values near $488,800 combine with environmental vulnerabilities to complicate the livability equation.

A match for upwardly mobile commuters

Union County best suits high-earning professionals who need proximity to New York City and value modern infrastructure. It requires a high income to offset the significant cost of housing and local tax burdens.

Score breakdown

Tax2.8Cost2.4Safety25.1Health64.8Schools68.8Income95.3Risk4.5Water86Weather60.2
🏛2.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠2.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼95.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡25.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤64.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡4.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨48
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱47.8
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

Richmond County
New York
47.1
Essex County
New Jersey
33.3
Hudson County
New Jersey
33.6
Middlesex County
New Jersey
41.9
Somerset County
New Jersey
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Kings County
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55.2
Morris County
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52
Bergen County
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48

Deep Dives

Union County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Union County

via TaxByCounty

Union's rate outpaces most U.S. counties

Union County's effective tax rate of 2.05% nearly doubles the national median of 0.95%, placing it in the top 25% of counties for property tax burden. The median tax bill of $10,001 is 272% above the national median of $2,690, driven by Union's high home values of $488,800.

Slightly below state average for NJ

Union County's effective rate of 2.05% falls slightly below New Jersey's state average of 2.21%, making it one of the state's more favorable tax environments. However, the median tax bill of $10,001 exceeds the state average of $8,512 due to Union's above-average property valuations.

The lowest rate among peers

Union's 2.05% effective rate is the lowest among comparable regional counties—Warren (2.52%), Sussex (2.47%), and Salem (3.03%). Only Somerset (1.91%) offers a more favorable tax rate in this geographic area.

A $488,800 home costs $10,001 yearly

The median Union County home valued at $488,800 generates an annual property tax bill of $10,001. Both mortgage holders and outright owners pay the same amount, indicating standardized assessment practices throughout the county.

Union County homeowners should verify assessments

With some of the state's highest home values, Union County properties occasionally carry inflated assessments that don't reflect actual market conditions. Filing a tax appeal is free and can reduce annual bills, especially for properties that may be overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Union County

via CostByCounty

Union stretches affordability for renters

Union County's 19.9% rent-to-income ratio marks the threshold where housing becomes a genuine financial burden, slightly exceeding the national stress point. With a median household income of $100,117 and rents of $1,664, Union's affordability challenge is steeper than most American counties.

Union ranks least affordable in cohort

Union's 19.9% rent-to-income ratio edges above New Jersey's 19.1% state average, making it less affordable than most comparable counties statewide. This slight disadvantage reflects Union's urban character and proximity to New York City.

Union's urban premium shows in rents

Union rents of $1,664 exceed every other county in this group except Somerset, while home values of $488,800 rank second-highest. The county's proximity to Newark and Manhattan commands a premium that reduces relative affordability.

Union housing costs approach one-fifth income

Renters spend $1,664 monthly while homeowners pay $2,551, with rents consuming 19.9% of the $100,117 median household income. Homeownership reaches even higher cost burdens at roughly 30.6% of income, straining owner-occupied household budgets.

Union rewards transit-dependent relocators

If you're moving to Union for urban job access and robust public transit, factor the higher housing costs into your relocation decision and compare against salary premiums in dense employment centers. Remote workers should consider more affordable neighboring counties instead.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Union County

via IncomeByCounty

Union earns 34% above America's median income

Union County's median household income of $100,117 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 33.9%, reflecting solid middle-to-upper-class earning power. Union's income advantage places it in the upper quarter of U.S. counties despite regional cost-of-living pressures.

Matches New Jersey's statewide income average

Union's $100,117 median income virtually mirrors New Jersey's state average of $100,891, making Union a representative New Jersey county by income standards. This alignment reflects Union's diverse population and economic base across its municipalities.

Union bridges the income middle ground

Union earns $50,843 less than Somerset but $5,521 more than Warren County, positioning it as a bridge between New Jersey's wealthiest and more modest-income regions. This income level reflects Union's role as a commercial and residential hub in the state's northeastern corridor.

Housing costs present affordability challenge

Union's 19.9% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among these five counties, signaling early affordability stress for renters. The median home value of $488,800 requires substantial household income to afford comfortably, demanding careful financial planning.

Plan strategically amid higher housing costs

Union households earning at state-average levels face above-average housing costs that require disciplined financial planning to build wealth. Prioritize maximizing employer retirement benefits, consider first-time homebuyer programs, and explore investment strategies that capitalize on home equity appreciation in this strong real estate market.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Union County

via CrimeByCounty

Union County remains safer than national average

Union County’s total crime rate of 1851.0 per 100K is roughly 22% lower than the national average of 2385.5. The county earns a safety score of 97.1, reflecting its urban-suburban mix.

Balancing safety in a busy county

The county's total crime rate of 1851.0 is higher than the New Jersey average of 1525.9. Its safety score of 97.1 sits just below the statewide average of 97.6.

Higher density leads to higher rates than neighbors

Union faces higher crime rates than neighboring Somerset County, largely due to its greater population density and 26 active reporting agencies. However, it still maintains lower violent crime rates than many similar metropolitan areas.

Property crime is the primary concern

Property crime accounts for 1627.4 of the total rate, while violent crime sits at 223.6 per 100K. This suggests that residents should prioritize theft prevention and home monitoring.

Secure your home against property theft

With property crime making up the bulk of local reports, home security systems are a vital deterrent. Investing in visible cameras and secure locks can significantly reduce individual risk.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Union County

via HealthByCounty

Union's Life Expectancy Solid Overall

At 79.3 years, Union County residents exceed the U.S. average of 78.8 years, though the county's 15.7% poor/fair health rate—the highest among its peers—suggests underlying health disparities. This gap between life expectancy and self-reported health signals uneven health experiences across neighborhoods.

Slightly Above State, With Health Concerns

Union's 79.3-year life expectancy nudges above New Jersey's 78.5-year average, yet its 15.7% poor/fair health rate significantly exceeds the state's patterns. The county's higher health burden warrants targeted prevention and access initiatives.

Mixed Position Within Region

Union residents live slightly longer than Warren County (78.3 years) but shorter than Somerset (81.8 years), placing it in the mid-tier. At 62 primary care providers per 100K, Union offers more access than Salem but trails Somerset's density by half.

Insurance Gap Threatens Healthcare Access

Union's 12.6% uninsured rate—68% higher than the state average of 7.5%—means roughly one in eight residents lack stable coverage. With 62 primary care and 255 mental health providers per 100K, the infrastructure exists, but insurance barriers keep thousands from using it daily.

Close the Coverage Gap in Union

Nearly 13% of Union residents lack health insurance, creating real barriers to preventive and emergency care. Visit nj.gov/humanservices or call 1-877-NJ-COVER to enroll in Medicaid, marketplace plans, or local health center programs—coverage changes lives.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Union County

via SchoolsByCounty

Massive Scale in Union's Education System

Union County manages a vast network of 178 public schools serving nearly 100,000 students. The infrastructure is geared toward primary education with 103 elementary schools, supported by 39 high schools and 26 middle schools. The system is diverse, including 5 charter schools, 5 alternative schools, and 6 special education centers.

Meeting Benchmarks in an Active County

Union County's graduation rate of 88.6% exceeds the national average of 87.0%, though it trails the New Jersey average of 91.4%. The county spends $12,330 per pupil, maintaining a competitive level of funding compared to the $13,000 national average. A composite school score of 64.3 reflects the diverse challenges and successes of this large-scale urban and suburban system.

The Powerhouse Elizabeth Public Schools

Elizabeth Public Schools is the dominant district, overseeing 37 schools and 27,378 students. Plainfield and Linden also run significant operations, serving 8,331 and 6,032 students respectively. Charter schools play a visible role here, making up 2.8% of the total school landscape and providing various educational alternatives.

Universal Suburban Schooling

Every single school in Union County is classified as suburban, reflecting the county's densely populated, interconnected communities. The average school size is 550 students, but high schools can be much larger. Union High School leads the county with 2,308 students, followed by Plainfield High with 1,925.

Find Your Community in Union County

Union County offers an array of suburban neighborhoods tied to large, well-resourced school districts. From the high-capacity campuses in Elizabeth to the established reputation of Westfield Public Schools, families have diverse choices for their children's education. Search for a home here to benefit from a school system that reflects New Jersey's dynamic suburban character.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Union County

via RiskByCounty

Union County faces well-above-average natural hazards

Union County scores 95.48 on the composite risk scale, earning a relatively high risk rating that significantly exceeds national averages for disaster exposure. This elevated standing reflects Union's concentrated vulnerability to multiple major hazard types, particularly in urban and coastal contexts.

Union ranks as New Jersey's riskiest county

At 95.48, Union County leads all New Jersey counties in composite disaster risk, well above the state average of 90.81. Union's elevated rank reflects a dangerous convergence of flood, tornado, earthquake, and hurricane threats concentrated in one county.

Union significantly outranks all surrounding counties

Union (95.48) substantially exceeds risk levels in Somerset (90.94), Salem (76.53), Sussex (77.45), and Warren (80.76), making it distinctly the most hazard-exposed county in the region. No nearby county approaches Union's composite risk profile.

Flooding and tornadoes pose critical threats

Union's flood risk reaches 97.52—among the highest in the nation—while tornado risk climbs to 87.15, reflecting its vulnerable urban and coastal geography. Earthquake risk also spikes to 95.07, and hurricane exposure registers at 88.99, creating a perfect storm of overlapping hazards.

Flood insurance is non-negotiable in Union County

Given Union's exceptional 97.52 flood risk score, flood insurance is essential for all residents, even those outside designated FEMA flood zones. Homeowners should also invest in structural reinforcements against severe weather, keep emergency supplies stocked, and maintain a detailed disaster response plan for their family.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Union County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and Humid Eastern Climate

Union County’s 55.0°F annual average is comfortably above the national median temperature. This area experiences a humid climate with high moisture levels throughout the year.

Consistently Above State Averages

At 55.0°F, Union County is roughly 1.4 degrees warmer than the New Jersey state average of 53.6°F. Its urban density and coastal proximity contribute to these elevated temperature levels.

Hotter and Wetter than Warren

Union records 28 days of extreme heat annually, far outpacing Warren County's 17 days. It also receives 48.6 inches of precipitation, making it one of the more humid corridors in the region.

Steamy Summers and Steady Snow

July is hot with an average of 77.3°F and nearly a month's worth of days exceeding 90°F. Despite the heat, winters still deliver a significant 26.4 inches of snow on average.

Ready for Floods and Heat

Residents should plan for high humidity and 28 days of extreme heat with robust air conditioning. With 48.6 inches of rain and significant snowfall, maintaining clear gutters and sump pumps is vital for property care.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Union County

via SoilByCounty

Classic New Jersey acidity levels

Union County records a pH of 3.67, falling below the state average of 4.24 and significantly lower than the national 6.5 median. Despite the acidity, the county maintains a respectable soil score of 48.0.

Loamy mix for urban gardening

The soil composition is nearly even between sand (30.7%) and silt (32.8%), with a low 10.5% clay presence. This mix ensures the soil is easy to till and doesn't become overly sticky or dense for home landscaping.

Nutrient-dense with high organic matter

At 13.23% organic matter, the soil is very close to the state average and far exceeds the 2.0% national benchmark. Its available water capacity of 0.175 in/in provides a stable reservoir for plant roots in suburban environments.

Steady water movement

Formal drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unlisted for the county. The balanced mineral ratios suggest decent permeability, though the high organic matter can hold significant moisture during wet months.

A long season for suburban plots

Nestled in Zone 7a, the climate allows for a long growing season that suits both ornamental flowers and edible plants. Dig in today to make the most of this nutrient-dense urban soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Union County

via LawnByCounty

Typical Jersey Growth Conditions

Union County nearly mirrors the state average with a lawn difficulty score of 47.8. Located in hardiness zone 7a, it offers a middle-ground experience for homeowners compared to the national average of 50.0.

Ample Rain but Summer Heat

At 48.6 inches of annual rain, your lawn gets more water than the state average of 48.1. However, the 28 extreme heat days per year mean you will need to supplement with irrigation during July to keep grass from turning brown.

Correction for Acidic Soils

Union’s soil pH is 3.67, significantly lower than the ideal 6.0 range for healthy turfgrass. The soil contains 30.7% sand and 10.5% clay; while drainage data is sparse, adding organic matter will help stabilize this acidic environment.

Resilient Watering Strategies

The county has seen 27 weeks of drought in the past year, though severe drought currently remains at 0.0%. Focus on morning watering to prevent fungal issues while ensuring your lawn stays hydrated during the 100% abnormally dry current phase.

Timing Your Union County Lawn

Tall fescues are well-suited for zone 7a because they resist the local heat and summer drought. Time your seeding efforts for mid-April after the last frost on April 11 to take full advantage of the spring growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Union County's county score?
Union County, New Jersey has a composite county score of 35.3 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 Union County rank among counties in New Jersey?
Union County ranks #14 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 Union County, New Jersey?
The median annual property tax in Union County is $10,001, with an effective tax rate of 2.05%. This earns Union County a tax score of 2.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Union County?
The median household income in Union County, New Jersey is $100,117 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Union County earns an income score of 95.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Union County, New Jersey a good place to live?
Union County scores 35.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #14 in New Jersey. The best way to evaluate Union 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 Union County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛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.