New Jersey Average Salary by Age: Complete 2024 Data Breakdown

According to a comprehensive 2024 study by Scholaroo analyzing median earnings across America, where you live significantly influences your earning potential at every career stage. New Jersey stands out as one of the nation’s highest-earning states, with particularly strong salaries for professionals in their peak career years. Understanding average salary in New Jersey across different age brackets can help you benchmark your own income and plan for your financial future.

New Jersey Earnings Across Different Age Groups

New Jersey demonstrates a striking income progression as workers advance through their careers. Young professionals aged 15 to 24 earn a median of $52,624 annually, which roughly aligns with the national average for this age group. However, the real story emerges as New Jersey workers mature professionally.

Those in the 25 to 44 age bracket—typically considered the core earning years—command an impressive $106,274 median salary. This represents a significant jump and positions New Jersey well above many states nationwide. The average salary in New Jersey peaks during the 45 to 64 age range, where workers earn a median income of $117,412. This is among the highest for this age bracket across all 50 states. Even retirees aged 65 and over maintain strong earning power, with a $65,988 median income in New Jersey, suggesting strong retirement income sources or continued part-time work for many residents.

How New Jersey Compares to Other States

To put New Jersey’s average salary figures in perspective, the state consistently ranks in the top tier nationally. Massachusetts leads the nation for workers aged 25 to 44 with $108,536, and New Jersey trails closely at $106,274—a testament to the state’s robust job market and cost-of-living adjusted wages. For the 45 to 64 age group, New Jersey actually surpasses Massachusetts, placing it among the nation’s top two states.

The regional disparities are striking when compared to lower-earning states. Mississippi, identified as the nation’s lowest-earning state across multiple age groups, shows median incomes of just $58,641 for ages 25 to 44—less than 55% of New Jersey’s figure for the same age group. West Virginia similarly shows a pronounced gap, with workers aged 45 to 64 earning just $66,250 compared to New Jersey’s $117,412. These regional salary gaps underscore how geography shapes earning potential in America.

Understanding Salary Trends by Generation

The data reveals consistent patterns across generations. Baby boomers in Hawaii command the nation’s highest retirement-age earnings at $77,957, while Generation X dominates peak earning years across most states. Gen Z and younger millennials earn less uniformly, as expected for those early in their careers or just entering the workforce.

The progression from entry-level to peak-earning years shows a typical pattern: workers aged 15 to 24 earn approximately 40-50% of peak salaries, those aged 25 to 44 reach roughly 85-90% of peak earnings, and the 45 to 64 bracket represents the highest earning potential. New Jersey’s strong showing at all age levels reflects its position as an economic hub with substantial corporate headquarters, financial services, and professional opportunities.

For job seekers and career planners, understanding these figures—particularly what the average salary in New Jersey represents at your life stage—can inform career decisions, relocation considerations, and financial planning. Whether you’re evaluating a job offer in the Garden State or planning a move, these 2024 figures provide a reliable benchmark for salary expectations across your career trajectory.

Data sourced from Scholaroo and accurate as of May 29, 2024.