Vernon
RANK #812 / 996 NAT · #19 / 21 NJ · POP 144,808
1YR FORECAST: +1.5%
5YR OUTLOOK: +15%
Sussex County, New Jersey, is defined by its rural character and extensive natural beauty, a distinction often highlighted by locals. Located in the state's northernmost region, it sits about an hour's drive from New York City, offering a quieter alternative to urban life. The county boasts mountains, over 80 lakes and streams, and approximately 40 miles of the Appalachian Trail, making it a year-round destination for outdoor recreation. High Point State Park, home to New Jersey's highest elevation, provides hiking, camping, and winter sports opportunities. Towns like Sparta, Newton, and Vernon offer a mix of historic charm and access to these natural amenities.
Life in Sussex County often appeals to families and those seeking a more relaxed pace. While many residents commute to neighboring counties or New York City for work, the community maintains a close-knit feel. The local economy is supported by sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and light manufacturing, with institutions like Sussex County Community College contributing significantly to the regional economy and workforce development. The county's focus on preserving its natural landscape and fostering a family-friendly environment shapes its quality of life.
Overvalued relative to economy
Below national median
Moderate climate & terrain
Housing looks overvalued at 8.9x — home prices are high relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Estimated local headcount ranges. Larger employers shown as floor + "+"; smaller employers show exact counts where reported.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
Source: CDC/NCHS vital statistics via County Health Rankings (2020–2022 avg). Rates per 100,000 population. Grade based on homicide rate relative to national average (~6.3). Learn more →
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
The data is not encouraging — Sussex County scores just 18/100 on the Boom Town Index, ranking #812 of 996 counties. Job growth at +0.7% and median household income of $111,094 reflect an economy that has been contracting or stagnating relative to the rest of the country.
Housing in Sussex County is roughly in line with national affordability norms. The median home costs $322,300 and the income-to-home-value ratio sits at 0.34, with rents averaging $1,501/month. Not a bargain, but not a stretch for most local earners either.
Population and employment in Sussex County are both close to flat — population +0.2% YoY and jobs +0.7%. Home values shifted +3.4% over the past 12 months. A steady-state county, neither expanding quickly nor shrinking.
There's a moderate stream of newcomers. About 3.08% of residents moved from another state, which is above average and suggests Sussex County has appeal as a relocation destination — though it's not among the highest-inflow counties nationally.