Cost of Living in Trenton, NJ in 2025

Trenton, NJ Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment rose steadily from $900 in 2010 to $1,100 in 2025.
• Transportation Expenses: Public transit fares are affordable at $1.50 per ride and $60 monthly passes.
• Healthcare Costs: Monthly employer-sponsored health insurance costs about $150, with private silver plans averaging $600.
• Income Levels: Median household income has grown moderately, reaching $50,000 in 2025.

Trenton, New Jersey, offers a cost of living below national averages, especially in housing. This article details the key expenses shaping daily living in Trenton in 2025.

Explore a comprehensive breakdown of housing, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and more to understand the financial landscape of Trenton.

1. Housing Costs in Trenton, NJ

Housing is a major factor in living expenses. Below is the trend in average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Trenton:

• 2010: $900
• 2015: $950
• 2020: $1,000
• 2024: $1,085
• 2025: $1,100

This steady rise reflects growing housing demand in the city over 15 years.

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2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Trenton, NJ

For those interested in purchasing, median home prices have increased moderately:

• 2010: $97,000
• 2015: $100,000
• 2020: $110,000
• 2024: $122,500
• 2025: $125,000

This trend supports the city's stable but affordable real estate market.

3. Transportation Expenses in Trenton, NJ

Transportation options include affordable public transit and vehicle costs:

• Public Transit: One-way fare is about $1.50, with monthly passes priced at $60.
• Fuel Costs: Gasoline averages $3.50 per gallon.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Annual upkeep costs hover around $1,200.

Individual costs can vary depending on travel habits.

4. Utility Costs in Trenton, NJ

Typical monthly utilities for a standard home include:

• Electricity: $150
• Internet: $50
• Total Utilities: $200

These figures may fluctuate based on usage and provider choices.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Trenton, NJ

Groceries average about $300 per person monthly in Trenton.

Dining out costs range from $15 at casual spots to $50 at mid-range restaurants.

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6. Healthcare Costs in Trenton, NJ

Healthcare costs include:

• Employer-Sponsored Insurance: Approximately $150 monthly
• Private Silver Plan: Around $600 per month

Costs vary based on plan and coverage.

7. Educational Expenses in Trenton, NJ

Education related costs include:

• Public Schools: Generally free, funded by taxes
• Private Schools: Average annual tuition about $10,000
• In-State University Tuition: Around $12,000 yearly

Expenses depend on the institution and program chosen.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Trenton, NJ

Available entertainment options and costs include:

• Movie Tickets: $12 each
• Gym Memberships: $40 monthly
• Mid-Range Restaurant Meals: $50 per meal
• Annual Entertainment Expenses: $2,000
• Personal Care Services Annually: $600
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: $500 per year

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Trenton, NJ

Tax rates relevant to residents include:

• State Income Tax: Ranges from 1.4% to 10.75%
• Sales Tax: 6.625%
• Property Tax Rate: 2.42%

These affect overall affordability for residents.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Trenton, NJ

Family-related costs include:

• Daycare: $1,000 per month
• After-School Programs: $300 monthly
• Extracurricular Activities: $100 monthly

These are important considerations in budgeting for families.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in Trenton, NJ

Average monthly expenses are:

• Clothing: $100
• Personal Care Products & Services: $50

Cost levels align closely with national averages.

12. Insurance Costs in Trenton, NJ

Insurance expenses include:

• Health Insurance: $600 monthly
• Auto Insurance: $1,500 annually
• Homeowners Insurance: $1,000 annually
• Renters Insurance: $200 annually

Costs depend on coverage type and provider.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Trenton, NJ

Other relevant spending includes entertainment, personal care services, and miscellaneous goods:

• Entertainment: $2,000 annually
• Personal Care Services: $600 annually
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: $500 annually

14. Income and Salaries in Trenton, NJ

Median household incomes in Trenton have trended upward over time:

• 2010: $37,002
• 2015: $40,000
• 2020: $45,000
• 2023: $47,102
• 2025: $50,000

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15. Comparison with National Averages in Trenton, NJ

Trenton's cost of living is moderately higher overall, but notable exceptions apply:

• Overall Cost of Living: 4.6% higher than national average
• Housing Costs: Significantly lower, approximately 25.3% below national average
• Utilities, Food, Healthcare and Transportation: On par with national averages
• Goods and Services: Comparable to national figures

These comparisons illuminate areas of affordability and cost pressures.

Our Methodology for Trenton, NJ Cost of Living Figures

We compile this data from trusted sources including government statistics, economic studies, and cost databases like Numbeo and Zillow. When precise data is unavailable, reasonable estimates based on similar locales are used to present a reliable overview.

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Trenton, NJ Cost of Living: Conclusion

Trenton offers a relatively affordable lifestyle with housing costs significantly below the national average. Other expenses such as transportation, utilities, and healthcare fall close to typical national levels.

The city's modest median income growth and reasonable expenses make it an attractive option for residents looking for a balanced cost of living in the northeastern United States.

By understanding these figures and trends, prospective residents and current locals can better plan their finances to meet the demands of life in Trenton, NJ.