LSNJ Poverty Research Institute

LSNJ created the Poverty Research Institute (PRI) in 1997 to analyze and present data on poverty in New Jersey that would assist in its mission of providing civil-legal assistance. PRI’s research helps to pinpoint the scope, geography and demographics of poverty across the state, assisting in crafting more effective, evidence-based legal responses and solutions. Periodically, as a public service, PRI also publishes reports and statistics to enhance awareness about poverty in the state. By conducting rigorous, data-informed analysis and research, PRI’s work assists in public policy decisions that alleviate problems of those living in poverty, and thereby further serving LSNJ’s core mission. PRI is New Jersey’s first entity exclusively focused on researching and updating information on poverty in the state.

Poverty estimates based upon the federal poverty level (FPL) grossly understate the extent of deprivation in New Jersey. The percentage of NJ residents unable to meet basic needs is nearly three times more than what is revealed by the FPL.

According to the American Community Survey, the federal poverty rate declined from 9.7% in 2023 to 9.2% in 2024. However, this decades-old federal standard fails to capture the full extent of income insecurity in high-cost states such as New Jersey.

NJ Counts 2025 provides a statewide snapshot of households experiencing homelessness on the night of Tuesday, January 28, 2025, revealing important information about where they find shelter and what factors contribute to their homelessness.