The Zillow Home Value Index reveals a fascinating picture of New Jersey’s coastal real estate market over the past decade.
Three trends stand out from our analysis: Atlantic City remains the most affordable coastal option despite nearly doubling in value, Keansburg experienced the most dramatic 10-year growth at 144.60%, and even the cheapest coastal towns have seen average appreciation of over 100% since 2014. Every coastal town in our analysis saw significant growth, with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating already rising home values across all shore communities.
So while this is a list of the most affordable coastal towns in New Jersey, as you’ll see, many are expensive.
Here’s the list.
1. Atlantic City – $215,998
The iconic gambling hub of Atlantic City tops our affordability list with a 2024 home value of $215,998. Despite being known for its casinos and boardwalk attractions, Atlantic City offers surprising value for coastal living, with properties costing less than a quarter of those in Stone Harbor. The city’s housing market has shown remarkable resilience, climbing from just $100,080 in 2014 and $111,397 in 2019, representing a substantial 115.83% growth over the decade and an eye-popping 93.90% surge in just the last five years – the highest short-term growth rate among all towns analyzed.
2. Absecon – $325,872
Nestled on the bay just northwest of Atlantic City, Absecon presents an attractive alternative for coastal living at $325,872 in 2024. This tranquil bay community has seen steady appreciation from its 2014 value of $171,742 and 2019 value of $182,850, reflecting increases of 89.74% over ten years and 78.22% over five years respectively. Absecon’s proximity to Atlantic City’s amenities coupled with its more relaxed atmosphere makes it an increasingly sought-after location for homebuyers seeking coastal access without the premium prices of oceanfront communities.
3. Keansburg – $358,368
Situated on Raritan Bay with stunning views of the New York skyline, Keansburg has undergone a remarkable transformation in the housing market. From a modest $146,511 in 2014 to $188,346 in 2019, and now reaching $358,368 in 2024, this Monmouth County gem boasts the most impressive 10-year growth rate on our list at 144.60%. The five-year appreciation of 90.27% reinforces Keansburg’s reputation as an emerging hotspot for affordable coastal living, attracting homebuyers who appreciate its small-town character and convenient location.
4. Villas – $362,140
Located on Delaware Bay in Cape May County, Villas offers a serene coastal escape at $362,140 in 2024. This quiet community has experienced robust growth from its 2014 value of $165,205 and 2019 figure of $196,329, showing increases of 119.21% over the decade and 84.46% in the last five years. Villas provides a more secluded alternative to the bustling Atlantic Ocean beaches, appealing to those seeking a peaceful waterfront lifestyle without the premium prices of New Jersey’s more famous shore towns.
5. Somers Point – $387,788
The gateway to Ocean City, Somers Point commands a strategic position on Great Egg Harbor Bay at a 2024 value of $387,788. Starting from $194,937 in 2014 and $201,214 in 2019, this Atlantic County municipality has demonstrated remarkable stability followed by explosive growth, with a 98.93% increase over ten years and an impressive 92.72% jump in the past five years – the second-highest short-term growth rate among all towns analyzed. Somers Point’s combination of waterfront dining, marinas, and proximity to ocean beaches makes it an increasingly popular choice for coastal living.
6. Tuckerton – $388,744
The historic seaport town of Tuckerton, situated on Little Egg Harbor, combines maritime heritage with affordable coastal living at $388,744 in 2024. From its 2014 value of $177,576 to $217,964 in 2019, Tuckerton has realized significant appreciation of 118.92% over the decade and 78.35% since 2019. As one of New Jersey’s designated “Small Towns with Charm,” Tuckerton appeals to history enthusiasts and water lovers alike, offering access to the bay and proximity to Long Beach Island without the island’s premium prices.
7. Ocean Gate – $419,139
This small borough on the Toms River near Barnegat Bay offers quaint coastal charm at $419,139 in 2024. Rising steadily from $192,575 in 2014 and $223,473 in 2019, Ocean Gate has experienced solid growth of 117.65% over ten years and 87.56% in the last five years. The community’s small-town atmosphere, public beach, and pier attract homebuyers seeking an authentic shore experience in a walkable community, all while maintaining a price point well below nearby barrier island towns.
8. Keyport – $460,145
Known as the “Pearl of the Bayshore,” Keyport sits on Raritan Bay offering maritime heritage and Manhattan views at $460,145 in 2024. From $218,402 in 2014 to $281,907 in 2019, this Monmouth County borough has appreciated 110.69% over the decade and 63.23% in the five-year period. Keyport’s walkable downtown, harbor, and direct ferry service to New York City make it an increasingly attractive option for commuters seeking waterfront living at a fraction of the cost of communities closer to the ocean.
9. Forked River – $467,043
A boater’s paradise within Lacey Township, Forked River offers access to Barnegat Bay with a 2024 home value of $467,043. While historical data from 2014 is unavailable, the community has seen robust growth from $268,372 in 2019, representing a 74.03% increase in just five years. The area’s network of navigable lagoons, marinas, and access to the bay and ocean via Barnegat Inlet makes Forked River especially appealing to nautical enthusiasts seeking the coastal lifestyle without oceanfront prices.
10. Barnegat – $470,614
Historical Barnegat Township, with its iconic lighthouse and bayfront location, offers coastal charm at $470,614 in 2024. Starting from $237,388 in 2014 and rising to $272,926 in 2019, Barnegat has experienced steady growth of 98.25% over the decade and 72.43% since 2019. The township’s unique combination of historic downtown, nature preserves, and bay access attracts homebuyers looking for authentic coastal character without the premium of oceanfront communities across the bay on Long Beach Island.
11. Union Beach – $481,958
This resilient Raritan Bay community has rebounded impressively since Superstorm Sandy, reaching $481,958 in 2024. From a modest $206,561 in 2014 to $292,311 in 2019, Union Beach has demonstrated remarkable appreciation of 133.33% over ten years and 64.88% in the last five years. The borough’s waterfront parks, fishing pier, and stunning views of the New York skyline contribute to its growing appeal among homebuyers seeking affordable bayside living within commuting distance to New York City.
12. Waretown – $519,406
Officially known as Ocean Township in Ocean County, Waretown offers Barnegat Bay living at $519,406 in 2024. While 2014 data is unavailable, the community has grown substantially from its 2019 value of $312,175, showing a solid 66.38% increase in five years. Waretown’s combination of marinas, waterfront restaurants, and access to both the bay and the Garden State Parkway makes it a practical choice for those seeking coastal living with easy accessibility to the rest of the state.
13. Highlands – $526,366
Perched dramatically on the highest coastal hills in New Jersey overlooking Sandy Hook Bay, Highlands offers breathtaking views at $526,366 in 2024. Without 2014 data for comparison, we can still observe strong growth from $316,590 in 2019, representing a 66.26% increase over five years. The borough’s elevated topography provides panoramic water vistas, while its location at the gateway to Sandy Hook offers recreational opportunities and beach access, creating a unique value proposition for coastal home buyers.
14. Wildwood – $593,004
Famous for its retro doo-wop architecture and wide beaches, Wildwood offers oceanfront living at $593,004 in 2024. From $281,539 in 2014 to $331,476 in 2019, this Cape May County resort town has appreciated 110.63% over the decade and 78.90% since 2019. Despite being directly on the Atlantic Ocean with one of the largest beaches in the state, Wildwood remains surprisingly affordable compared to other oceanfront communities, attracting investors and vacation homeowners drawn to its nostalgic charm and rental potential.
15. Cape May – $664,425
America’s oldest seaside resort town, with its Victorian architectural treasures and pristine beaches, commands $664,425 in 2024. Rising from $318,837 in 2014 and $382,905 in 2019, Cape May has appreciated 108.39% over ten years and 73.52% in the last five years. Despite its National Historic Landmark status, world-class restaurants, and picturesque beaches, Cape May remains more affordable than many other premium Jersey Shore destinations, offering a unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty.
16. Seaside Heights – $679,611
The iconic summer playground immortalized by MTV’s “Jersey Shore” offers oceanfront access at $679,611 in 2024. From $284,683 in 2014 to $363,128 in 2019, Seaside Heights has experienced dramatic growth of 138.73% over the decade and 87.15% since 2019, ranking among the highest appreciation rates in our analysis. The borough’s famous boardwalk, amusement piers, and direct ocean access make it a perennial favorite for investors seeking rental properties, with values increasingly reflecting its popularity despite past challenges from natural disasters.
17. Long Branch – $746,531
Once the nation’s premier coastal resort and summer White House location, Long Branch has undergone an impressive renaissance reflected in its $746,531 value in 2024. From $331,875 in 2014 to $446,750 in 2019, this Monmouth County city has appreciated 124.94% over the decade and 67.10% in the five-year period. Long Branch’s combination of luxury developments like Pier Village, historic districts, and expansive beaches creates a diverse market appealing to year-round residents, second-home owners, and investors alike.
18. Seaside Park – $813,064
The quieter, more residential neighbor to Seaside Heights offers a more refined beach experience at $813,064 in 2024. Starting from $413,766 in 2014 and growing to $503,231 in 2019, Seaside Park has shown steady appreciation of 96.50% over ten years and 61.57% in the last five. The borough’s family-friendly atmosphere, wider beaches, and proximity to Island Beach State Park create a premium value proposition for those seeking oceanfront living without the commercial boardwalk scene found in neighboring communities.
19. Point Pleasant Beach – $969,852
This classic shore town with its family-friendly boardwalk and fishing fleet now commands $969,852 in 2024. From $510,696 in 2014 to $604,370 in 2019, Point Pleasant Beach has appreciated 89.91% over the decade and 60.47% since 2019. The borough’s combination of commercial boardwalk attractions, restaurants, and prime beach access creates enduring appeal for vacation homeowners and investors, while its position at the northern edge of Ocean County provides easier access for North Jersey and New York buyers.
20. Ocean City – $1,018,282
“America’s Greatest Family Resort” breaks the million-dollar threshold at $1,018,282 in 2024. Rising from $571,876 in 2014 and $653,888 in 2019, Ocean City has experienced growth of 78.06% over ten years and 55.73% in the last five years – the lowest five-year appreciation rate among towns analyzed. Despite this, Ocean City’s status as a dry town (no alcohol sales), family-oriented boardwalk, and eight miles of beaches maintain its position as one of New Jersey’s premier vacation destinations, with home values reflecting its enduring popularity.
21. Manasquan – $1,024,678
Where the Jersey Shore officially begins, Manasquan offers premium coastal living at $1,024,678 in 2024. From $506,693 in 2014 to $628,341 in 2019, this Monmouth County borough has appreciated 102.23% over the decade and 63.08% since 2019. Manasquan’s combination of a charming downtown, prime surfing beaches, and direct access to the Manasquan River and Inlet creates multifaceted appeal for water enthusiasts, with values reflecting its popularity among year-round residents and vacation homeowners alike.
22. Sea Isle City – $1,321,173
With its motto “Smile, You’re in Sea Isle,” this popular Cape May County resort town commands $1,321,173 in 2024. Growing impressively from $636,422 in 2014 to $772,591 in 2019, Sea Isle City has appreciated 107.59% over the decade and 71.01% in the last five years. The city’s combination of family-friendly beaches, vibrant dining scene, and extensive recreation programs creates strong rental demand, attracting investors and vacation homeowners willing to pay a premium for this quintessential shore experience.
23. Stone Harbor – $2,364,894
The crown jewel of our analysis, Stone Harbor represents the pinnacle of Jersey Shore luxury at $2,364,894 in 2024. From an already-premium $995,295 in 2014 to $1,302,281 in 2019, Stone Harbor has experienced remarkable growth of 137.61% over the decade and 81.60% since 2019 – among the highest appreciation rates despite starting from the highest base value. The borough’s exclusive atmosphere, meticulously maintained beaches, upscale shopping district, and large lot sizes justify its position as Cape May County’s most prestigious address, appealing to affluent buyers seeking the ultimate in coastal luxury.
I’ve noticed that coastal towns in New Jersey, like Barnegat and Beach Haven West, are becoming super appealing. They offer great prices, a family-friendly vibe, and awesome recreational activities.
I feel you on that. Places like Tuckerton and Historic Smithville are also gems! You know what they say, “You can’t put a price on good vibes.” And with the beaches so close, it’s hard to beat the lifestyle. Perfect spots for families and beach lovers alike!
With everything getting more expensive, I hope those coastal towns stay affordable. It’s tough finding a balance between budget and a great community. Let’s keep our fingers crossed!