Paterson
Paterson, New Jersey scores 39.3/100 (D grade), ranking #19 of 20 cities in New Jersey. Median income: $56,907. Crime rate: 932.7/100K.
Paterson vs New Jersey
Scores by Category
Paterson vs New Jersey
More Cities in New Jersey
Paterson, New Jersey Overview
Paterson faces challenges across several categories, earning a D grade (39.3/100) and ranking #19 of 20 cities in New Jersey. Even so, the city scores 73/100 in Education — a relative bright spot compared to its Outdoor Access score of 7/100.
Income & Employment in Paterson
Paterson’s median income of $56,907 is 41% below the state median, but positive population growth of 1.2% signals that affordability or other factors are still attracting residents. The local unemployment rate is 7.7%.
Safety in Paterson
With a violent crime rate of 932.7 per 100,000, Paterson exceeds the New Jersey average of 195. Safety is a factor prospective residents should weigh carefully. The property crime rate is 2478.4 per 100,000.
Cost of Living in Paterson
Paterson has a cost of living index of 112.5 (where 100 equals the national average), slightly above the national benchmark. The median home value is $335,400. Median monthly rent is $1,457. Renters allocate 30.7% of income to rent — above the 30% affordability threshold. The price-to-income ratio of 5.9x suggests home buyers face a stretched market.
Health & Wellness in Paterson
The adult obesity rate in Paterson is 37.5%, above the national average and a factor in the city’s health profile. Diabetes prevalence is elevated at 16.1%. Residents report an average of 18.6 poor mental health days per month, above the typical range. New Jersey ranks #10 nationally for overall health.
Education & Schools in Paterson
Paterson has a high school graduation rate of 79.6%. The student-teacher ratio of 13.5:1 indicates smaller class sizes. Local districts invest $24,975 per student, well above the national median. The city has 47 public schools serving 27,568 students. School data is sourced from the NCES Common Core of Data and EDFacts.
Climate & Commute in Paterson
The annual average temperature in Paterson is 53.6°F. Summers average 70.4°F. Winters average 38.4°F. Precipitation is abundant at 60.7 inches per year. 8.5% of commuters use public transit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall score for Paterson, New Jersey?
Paterson has an overall score of 39.3 out of 100, earning a D grade and ranking #19 among 20 cities in New Jersey.
What is the median income in Paterson?
The median household income in Paterson is $56,907, based on Census ACS data.
Is Paterson safe?
Paterson has a violent crime rate of 932.7 per 100,000 residents.
What is the cost of living in Paterson?
Paterson has a cost of living index of 112.5 (100 = national average). It is more expensive than the national average.
How are the public schools in Paterson?
Paterson has 47 public schools with a 79.6% graduation rate. The student-teacher ratio is 13.5:1.