Newark, NJ vs Toms River, NJ

Newark is moderately more affordable than Toms River, with a 11.4% lower cost of living index. Newark scores 107 compared to 121 for Toms River, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Toms River can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Newark is $1,330/month compared to $1,678/month in Toms River — a 21% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Newark is more affordable at $337,800 median vs $377,800.

Median household income in Newark is $48,416 compared to $95,759 in Toms River (-49.4%). While Toms River is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Newark spend roughly 33% of their income on rent, more than the 21% in Toms River. The Toms River ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.