Migrant surge, sanctuary state driving new jersey's population boom

TRENTON, NJ — New Jersey is starting 2025 with record-breaking growth, leading the Northeast in year-over-year population increase and reaching all-time highs in both jobs and employers, according to data released by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

The state’s population has risen to an estimated 9,500,851, reflecting a 1.3% increase—or 121,209 new residents—since 2023, making New Jersey first in population growth in the Northeast and tenth nationwide. Since April 2020, New Jersey has added 211,837 residents, marking a consistent upward trend.

The state’s foreign-born population also contributed to this growth, rising to 24.2% in 2023, well above the national average of 14.3%. Growth was especially concentrated in Essex, Hudson, and Ocean counties, with Newark surpassing 300,000 residents for the first time in decades.

The rapid increase in population in New Jersey has created a critical housing shortage and a higher demand for communities to build high-density affordable housing projects to accommodate the rapid increase of residents over the past few years.

New Jersey also reported its highest-ever employment and business numbers. As of November 2024, the state recorded 4,391,600 jobs, with 284,200 employers counted by September 30, 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Governor Phil Murphy celebrated the milestone, calling it a reflection of the administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the state’s economy. “This Census data is a testament to the important work being done each and every day across the Administration to support our workers and continue building a stronger, fairer New Jersey,” Murphy said.

Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo highlighted New Jersey’s appeal to both workers and businesses. “We currently have more jobs and employers than at any other time in the Garden State’s history,” he said. “It’s clear — Governor Murphy’s stronger, fairer economy has made New Jersey the best state in the Northeast to live, work, and do business in.”

New Jersey’s sustained population and economic growth continue to position the state as a leading destination for families, professionals, and businesses alike.

According to studies by U-Haul and Atlas Van Lines, native New Jerseyans are fleeing the state, which is among the highest outbound states for the third consecutive year, according to those reports.

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