This blog post digs into a GoBankingRates study that spotlights the 50 cheapest beach towns to retire. Turns out, affordable coastal living isn’t just a Florida thing.
The study pulls data from places like Travel + Leisure and U.S. News & World Report. It looks at the percentage of retirees, median household income, monthly cost of living, and livability.
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Atlantic City, New Jersey cracked the top five, joining Corpus Christi, Duluth, Salisbury, and Columbus. Clearly, you can find affordable shoreline living all over the country—not just one coast.
Coastal retirement on a budget: what the study reveals
Atlantic City stands out as one of the most affordable beach towns, while still giving you that coastal vibe. There, 16.6% of folks are 65 or older, with a median household income of $41,028 and a monthly cost of living of $3,193.
The livability score for Atlantic City was 55. None of the top five cities had a monthly cost of living above $3,300.
Florida still has its share of budget-friendly retirement spots like Pensacola, Crystal River, Daytona Beach, and Jacksonville. That shows affordable coastal options really do pop up in different regions.
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The top-10 list also features Southern and Eastern towns like Ocean Springs in Mississippi, Salisbury in Maryland, and Duluth in Minnesota. There’s more geographic variety here than you might expect.
Atlantic City and New Jersey’s role in affordable coastal living
New Jersey’s shoreline proves you don’t have to give up beaches or culture to stay on budget. Atlantic City’s spot on this list shows retirees can enjoy ocean breezes and a reasonable cost of living without heading too far south—or inland.
If you’re eyeing the Jersey Shore with a budget in mind, Atlantic City is a good example that coastal communities can mix livability and savings. The region’s spectrum of neighborhoods lets seniors stretch retirement dollars and stay close to both city perks and the shore.
What this means for Jersey City residents and retirees
Jersey City—just across the Hudson from Manhattan—blends urban energy with easy access to the shore. If you’re thinking beyond the Sun Belt, Jersey City offers a different coastal experience: city life, great transit, and quick trips to Jersey Shore beaches.
Jersey City hotels come in all shapes and sizes, from boutique spots to full-service places. That gives retirees and visitors plenty of choices without needing a long drive.
Maybe you’re wondering where to stay in Jersey City or how to mix a coastal feel with city living. Jersey City’s neighborhoods and waterfronts make it doable, honestly.
Of course, any retirement plan depends on housing costs, healthcare access, and what kinds of things to do in Jersey City actually fit your life. The city’s city districts offer everything from historic rowhouses to shiny new towers, all close to parks, galleries, restaurants, and culture.
Plus, you’re never far from the New Jersey coastline. You can still dip your toes in the Atlantic—even while living in the middle of a buzzing city.
Practical tips for exploring this option in New Jersey
For retirees curious about moving to New Jersey, here are some practical points to help you plan:
- Getting to Jersey City is easy from major hubs. You can use PATH, buses, ferries, or the Hudson River rail connections, so day trips to Atlantic City or Cape May aren’t out of reach.
- Think about where to stay in Jersey City based on the amenities you care about, how close you want to be to transit, and which city districts feel right — maybe the lively waterfront Downtown, or the quieter Heights and Bergen-Lafayette.
- Take a look at the cost of living and housing options compared to nearby shore towns. See where your retirement dollars stretch the furthest while still letting you enjoy the beach.
Jersey City really does offer a mix of affordability, culture, and coastal access. If you’re looking for things to do in Jersey City besides the beaches, you’ll find walkable neighborhoods, parks, historic buildings, and a pretty great dining scene. For anyone wanting coastal life but not ready to give up city perks, Jersey City feels like a smart choice—especially if you want to stay close to the Jersey Shore and still enjoy city conveniences. Honestly, it’s worth a closer look.
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Here is the source article for this story: New Jersey city ranks among cheapest beach towns for retirement
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
