MIDDLESEX COUNTY

Total Population

165,500: Smallest of the three counties so far; offers a "small-town" feel even in its cities.

Median Household Income 

$95,800: Strong middle-class economy with high homeownership, making rentals a bit scarcer.

Average Rent 

$1,847: Highly variable; Middletown offers urban value, while the Shoreline spikes in price.