A recent GobankingRates study dug into 2024 U.S. Census ACS data, the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey, and Zillow’s February 2026 Home Value Index. The goal? Estimate the monthly retiree cost of living in the 50 most expensive U.S. beach cities.
Every spot on the list clocks in above $5,000 per month. The priciest city is close to $60,000, which just goes to show—an ocean view really does come at a premium.
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Two New Jersey shore towns—Asbury Park and Cape May—made the cut. The study also highlights how wildly coastal living costs can swing from one coast to the other.
Coastal retirement costs and New Jersey on the map
The study ranks Palm Beach, Florida at the very top. Retirees there face an estimated monthly cost of $59,821.
Next up is California’s Montecito at $34,380, then Sullivan’s Island in South Carolina at $26,110. Even small differences in location, income, or housing can lead to some pretty hefty monthly bills for retirees.
In New Jersey, the beach towns that appear on the list prove that living near the shore can mean big retirement costs. But not every shore community is on the same tier.
Asbury Park and Cape May both stand out in the rankings. Asbury Park has 12.5% of residents aged 65 or older, a Livability score of 67, and a median household income of $75,544.
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The estimated monthly retiree cost in Asbury Park is $5,934. Cape May, on the other hand, has a much older population—33.3% are 65+—and a Livability score of 63.
Its median household income is $62,576, and retirees there can expect monthly costs around $5,786. Even within a single state, retiree expenses can swing a lot from one beachside community to another.
New Jersey shore towns: Asbury Park and Cape May
Asbury Park’s numbers show a balance between solid median income and a pretty high retiree cost of living. The city’s older population, its livability, and its amenities all play a role in pushing costs just above the national average for retirees.
Cape May follows a similar pattern. There’s a strong income base, a sizable older population, and a seasonal economy that keeps things vibrant.
Beyond New Jersey, the study spotlights other well-known coastal hotspots. Places like Rehoboth Beach, Montauk, Shelter Island, New York City, Long Beach (NY), Malibu, Nantucket, and Santa Monica all make appearances.
What this means for retirees and the Jersey City region
If you’re a retiree or part of a family eyeing the New York metro area, you’ve probably noticed that coastal living doesn’t come cheap—especially when you want those ocean views or a place with resort perks.
But the area around Jersey City? That’s a whole different ballgame. Here, you get proximity to Manhattan, solid public transit, and a mix of housing options that don’t always break the bank.
Jersey City’s got a growing skyline and some great waterfront parks. Residents can check out cultural spots, sample all kinds of food, and tap into a lively business scene.
Honestly, it’s worth weighing what matters more: the buzz of urban life or the peace of a classic coastal retreat. Jersey City, for a lot of folks, strikes a decent middle ground.
You’ll find strong incomes, easy access to services, and, if you want to hit the beach, it’s just a quick ride away. At the same time, you’re still plugged into city districts and transit hubs that keep things convenient and, compared to those super-pricey beach cities, a bit more affordable.
- Jersey City hotels range from boutique spots to sleek towers with killer skyline views. There’s something for everyone—visitors, seasonal residents, you name it.
- Where to stay in Jersey City depends on your vibe. Some neighborhoods mix old-school charm with shiny new development, so you’ll find options for just about any budget.
- Things to do in Jersey City? Museums, waterfront walks, art galleries, and ferries into Manhattan keep things interesting all year round.
- Getting to Jersey City is pretty straightforward. PATH trains, ferries, and highways cut down the hassle, so day trips from New York or other parts of Jersey are a breeze.
- City districts each have their own flavor. Downtown’s got history, Journal Square’s always buzzing, and Bergen-Lafayette brings the artsy side. You get that neighborhood feel without leaving the metro sprawl.
Living near the ocean in retirement definitely comes with a certain comfort and maybe even a bit of prestige, but let’s be real—the costs jump all over the place depending on where you land.
Jersey City’s charm is in that balance: waterfront access without giving up urban perks. If you’re on the fence about where to stay or how to set up your retirement in the region, it’s worth a closer look.
The city’s mix of neighborhoods and easy transit make it a solid alternative to those high-priced beach towns. You still get that coastal-culture vibe, just with a little less sticker shock.
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Here is the source article for this story: 2 NJ towns among most expensive places to retire by the beach
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