USDA Rural Development has completed its 2020 decennial United States census review for all areas under its jurisdiction to identify areas that no longer qualify as rural for USDA Rural Housing programs. Based on the review of the areas within the state of New Jersey, using 2020 US census data, and rural area guidance located in Handbook HB-1-3550, Chapter 5, the rural eligibility designation has changed for the following areas:
Areas whose rural eligibility designations is changing from ineligible to eligible (these areas now qualify as rural for USDA Housing Programs) include:
- Kinnelon, Morris County
- City of Absecon, Atlantic County
- Brigantine City, Atlantic County
- Egg Harbor Township, Atlantic County – expanded eligible area to include the Western portion of Egg Harbor Township
- Winslow Township, Camden County – expanded eligible area to include portions of Ancora, Blue Anchor, Cedar Brook, Elm, Winslow Junction and Winslow Village.
- Monroe Township, Gloucester County - expanded eligible area to include the Piney Hollow and New Brooklyn portion.
Areas whose rural eligibility designations is changing from eligible to ineligible (these areas no longer qualify as rural for USDA Housing Programs) include:
- The Hills (CPD) Bedminster and Bernards Townships. Somerset County
- Princeton Meadows (CPD), Middlesex County
Changes become effective October 1, 2023.
The updated rural area map can now be viewed on our eligibility website. Users will need to click on the program, for example: “Single Family Housing Direct”, and then click on “Proposed Eligibility Areas” from the menu options.
For a full list of changes, additional details, or questions about specific changes, please contact the New Jersey Rural Development Housing Program Staff at 856.285.7658.