Urban Planner Salary in Paterson, New Jersey
The median urban planner salary in Paterson, NJ is $83,517 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 8.7% below the New Jersey state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Paterson: What to Expect (2026)
Paterson offers a median urban planner salary of $83,517, which is $7,954 below the New Jersey state average of $91,471. Compared to the national median of $79,540, Paterson pays above average for this role.
Paterson's cost of living is 105% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for urban planners in Paterson spans from $52,500 at the 10th percentile to $128,100 at the 90th percentile — a $75,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $54,600, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $123,900. With a population of 159,732, Paterson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Urban Planner Salary in Paterson by Experience
In Paterson, an entry-level urban planner earns around $54,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $123,900 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ
| Percentile | Paterson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,150 |
| Median (50th) | $83,517 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $128,100 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other New Jersey Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Paterson
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Paterson and the surrounding New Jersey area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Paterson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Urban Planner Jobs in Paterson
Browse open urban planner positions in Paterson, NJ: