Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Paterson

Affordability

According to Census ACS 5-Year data (2024), the median monthly rent in Paterson is $1,548 and the median household income is $55,997, with 73% of residents renting their homes. Paterson's 22 HUD-assisted properties offer 2,429 income-restricted units that can provide meaningful savings below market-rate rents for eligible households.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Paterson Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 1,007 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and local definitions.

Getting Around Paterson

According to Walk Score, the area around assisted properties in Paterson earns a Walk Score of 97 (Walker's Paradise), a Transit Score of 63 (Good Transit), and a Bike Score of 49.

• On foot: Nearly all errands can be handled without a car.
• By transit: Bus and rail options provide solid coverage for daily trips.
• By bike: Some biking infrastructure is available, though conditions vary by route.

Schools

Paterson is served by 49 public schools across 7 districts -- including 34 elementary, 3 middle, and 12 high schools -- according to the NCES Common Core of Data. Quality and programs vary by school and district, so renters should look up the assigned schools for any specific address they are considering.

Cost of Living in Paterson, NJ

The median household income in Paterson is $55,997 per year, according to the Census ACS 5-Year estimate. The median rent citywide is $1,548 per month, also from Census ACS 5-Year data, which means housing costs can stretch a significant share of a typical household's budget.

Paterson has 22 HUD-assisted or income-restricted properties with 2,429 total units, offering rent levels tied to income limits rather than the open market -- an important option for cost-burdened renters in the city.

• Median household income: $55,997/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $1,548/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Share of residents who rent: 73% (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Income-restricted units available: 2,429 across 22 properties

Flood and Environmental Exposure

All 22 assisted properties in Paterson have been mapped for flood risk. Of those, 3 are located in high-risk flood zones -- a meaningful consideration given Paterson's location along the Passaic River, which has a history of flooding. Renters interested in those properties should ask about flood insurance requirements and review FEMA flood zone maps for the specific address.