Recent reports have identified Salem as the poorest town in New Jersey, highlighting significant economic challenges faced by its residents. This designation is based on comprehensive analyses of median household income, poverty rates, and reliance on government assistance.
Key Findings
Lowest Median Household Income
- Salem’s median household income is just $26,667 per year, which is markedly lower than New Jersey’s overall median of $89,703.
- This stark income gap underscores the financial struggles prevalent in the community.
High Poverty and Reliance on Assistance
- Over one-third (35.2%) of Salem households receive SNAP benefits (food stamps), compared to the state average of 8.4%.
- The typical home value in Salem is $59,100, far below the state median of $355,700.
Population and Demographics
- Salem has a population slightly above 5,000, fitting the criteria of towns analyzed in the report (populations between 1,000 and 25,000).
Comparative Data
According to a recent ranking, other towns with high poverty rates include Bridgeton (32.7%), Atlantic City (32.4%), and Leisure Village (32.4%). However, Salem stands out due to its combination of low median income, high poverty rate, and significant reliance on public assistance.
Broader Context
While Camden is often cited as New Jersey’s poorest city by per capita income and poverty rate, the latest studies focusing on towns (rather than larger cities) place Salem at the top of the list for economic hardship.
Salem’s designation as the poorest town in New Jersey serves as a stark indicator of the economic disparities present within the state. The town’s low median income, high poverty rate, and heavy reliance on government assistance highlight the urgent need for targeted economic support and revitalization efforts in the community.
Sources:
- https://catcountry1073.com/30-richest-30-poorest-new-jersey-neighborhoods-2025/
- https://247wallst.com/income/2024/05/08/towns-in-new-jersey-with-the-worst-poverty/
- https://nj1015.com/new-report-says-this-is-the-poorest-town-in-new-jersey/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_New_Jersey_locations_by_per_capita_income