Cape May County, NJ 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Located along coastal New Jersey Cape May County offers a picturesque setting for individuals considering an active adult retirement community. With its charming beach towns, scenic landscapes, and rich historical heritage, Cape May County presents a tranquil environment for visitors and residents alike.

Located along coastal New Jersey Cape May County offers a picturesque setting for individuals considering an active adult retirement community. With its charming beach towns, scenic landscapes, and rich historical heritage, Cape May County presents a tranquil environment for visitors and residents alike.

The largest city, Ocean City, boasts pristine beaches and a lively boardwalk which offers various entertainment options. Wildwood, another prominent city, provides a vibrant atmosphere with family-friendly attractions, amusement parks, and a bustling nightlife. Cape May City, a delightful Victorian seaside resort town, enchants visitors with its preserved architecture and quaint streets which are perfect for leisurely strolls. The area's coastal charm and diverse recreational opportunities make it an inviting destination for 55+ active adults.

Local resources for visiting or moving to Cape May County:

  • Cape May County Government: The official website of Cape May County, providing comprehensive information on local services, events, and resources.
  • Cape May County Chamber of Commerce: A valuable resource for visitors and potential residents, offering information on local businesses, events, and attractions.
  • Cape May County Herald: The local newspaper serving Cape May County, delivering news, events, and community updates to keep residents informed about the area.

Cape May County NJ Area Affordability and Cost of Living 

Cape May County offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to some other areas on the east coast, however it is 22.7 percent higher than the national average. While housing prices can vary depending on the specific location within the county, the median home cost for Cape May County is $613,600, higher than both the state and U.S. averages. Groceries, and utilities run about ten percent higher than the national average but healthcare is slightly lower and transportation costs are almost ten percent lower than national averages.

New Jersey is known for its high property taxes, within Cape May County, property tax rates are 1.12 percent of a home's assessed value which is lower than other parts of the state. To find specific property tax information for Cape May County, you can view the website for the Cape May County Taxation Board. New Jersey's income tax ranges from 1.4 percent to 10.75 percent, social security is not taxed and while other retirement income is taxed there is a large exemption for lower income seniors. New Jersey's sales tax is about average, groceries, clothing, and prescription drugs are exempt. New Jersey does not impose an estate tax, but it does have an inheritance tax that applies to certain beneficiaries. The tax rates and exemptions vary based on the relationship between the deceased and the beneficiary. For more information on New Jersey's taxation policies, you can visit the New Jersey Division of Taxation's website.

Cape May County NJ Area Climate and Geography 

Average winter temperatures in Cape May County range from the low 30s to the mid-40s, with an average annual snowfall accumulation of around 10 inches. Summers in Cape May County are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 80s with around 70% during the summer months. The county receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 40 inches, with precipitation spread fairly evenly throughout the year.

Cape May County is susceptible to severe weather events common to the Mid-Atlantic region. The area can experience strong storms, including thunderstorms, heavy rain, and occasional hurricanes or tropical storms during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November. However, the county's coastal location also means that it benefits from the moderating influence of the Atlantic Ocean, helping to mitigate extreme temperature fluctuations.

Cape May County is situated on a peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, providing residents with easy access to beautiful beaches and stunning coastal views. Nearby lakes and rivers allow for activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking. Cape May County residents enjoy forests, wetlands, and wildlife preserves that are ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nature. The Pinelands National Reserve is a vast area of protected forests, rivers, and unique ecosystems which is just a short drive away. 

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment Near Cape May County NJ Area 

Cape May County offers a wide range of recreational activities, cultural events, and entertainment options to cater to various interests. 

Golf and Racquet Sports Near Cape May Co NJ Area

  • Avalon Golf Club in Avalon
  • Cape May National Golf Club
  • Stone Harbor Golf Club in Stone Harbor
  • Harbor Pines Golf Club in Egg Harbor Township

Hiking, Biking, and Boating Activities Near Cape May Co NJ Area

  • Cape May Point State Park
  • Belleplain State Forest in Woodbine
  • Cape May Whale Watcher for boat tours and whale watching in Cape May

Museums and Historical Sites Near Cape May Co NJ Area

  • Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum in Cape May
  • Cape May County Museum in Cape May Court House
  • Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May
  • Cape May Lighthouse and Museum in Cape May Point

Performing Arts Near Cape May Co NJ Area

  • Cape May Stage
  • East Lynne Theater Company in Cape May
  • Ocean City Music Pier in Ocean City
  • Middle Township Performing Arts Center in Cape May Court House

Shopping Near Cape May Co NJ Area

  • Washington Street Mall in Cape May
  • The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley
  • Cape May Antiques and Collectibles Emporium in Cape May
  • Stone Harbor Shopping District in Stone Harbor

Parks and Gardens Near Cape May Co NJ Area

  • Cape May County Park & Zoo in Cape May Court House
  • South Cape May Meadows Preserve in Cape May
  • Cape May Bird Observatory in Cape May Point

Festivals and Fairs Near Cape May Co NJ Area

  • Cape May Music Festival
  • West Cape May Strawberry Festival
  • Cape May County 4-H Fair
  • Sea Isle City Food Truck Festival in Sea Isle City

Cape May County NJ Area Health and Wellness 

Cape May County provides ample health and wellness support for 55+ active adults. The county is close to medical centers, ensuring convenient access to comprehensive healthcare services. Cape Regional Medical Center, located in Cape May Court House, is a leading hospital in the area, offering a range of medical specialties, advanced technology, and experienced healthcare professionals to cater to the needs of residents.

Cape May County also offers various options for self-care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. There are a number of local fitness centers, yoga studios, and wellness centers that cater to individuals of all ages. These facilities provide a range of classes, programs, and services focused on physical fitness, mental well-being, and holistic health.

For those interested in fresh and locally sourced produce, Cape May County has several farmers markets. These markets provide an opportunity to access a wide variety of healthy seasonal fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers and producers.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Cape May County NJ Area 55+ Communities

Considering buying a home in a 55+ community in Cape May County? A visit to the area can provide valuable insights into its amenities, and suitability for your retirement plans. Below is a suggested two-day itinerary to help you explore the region, enjoy local attractions, and get a feel for what Cape May County has to offer a 55+ homebuyer.

Day One

Morning:

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast or coffee at the charming Bella Vida Garden Café in Cape May.
  • Visit Cape May Point State Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk on the beach, admire the Cape May Lighthouse, and explore the nature trails.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Cape May County Park & Zoo in Cape May Court House, an exceptional free zoo with diverse animal exhibits and beautiful grounds.
  • Enjoy lunch at The Lobster House in Cape May, a renowned seafood restaurant offering a picturesque waterfront setting.

Evening:

  • Explore the Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May, a living history museum that showcases restored buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Ebbitt Room in Cape May, known for its farm-to-table cuisine and elegant ambiance.

Day Two

Morning:

  • Start the day with a tasty breakfast or coffee at the popular Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar in Cape May.
  • Take some time to meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss retirement community options and gather information.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Stone Harbor and spend the afternoon exploring the charming shopping district and strolling along the beautiful beaches.
  • Have lunch at Beach Plum Farm in West Cape May, where you can savor farm-to-table cuisine in a charming setting.

Evening:

  • Enjoy a delightful dinner at Harbor View Restaurant in Cape May, offering waterfront dining and delectable seafood options.

Getting to the Cape May County, NJ Area

Cape May County, NJ, can be easily accessed by various means of transportation, whether you're coming from nearby areas or from across the country. Here are directions on how visitors can reach the location using different modes of transportation:

Driving:

  • If driving from the north, take the Garden State Parkway South and continue until you reach Cape May County.
  • If driving from the west, take the Atlantic City Expressway eastbound, which will connect to the Garden State Parkway South.
  • For those coming from the south, take Route 9 or Route 47 until you reach Cape May County.

Flying:

The closest major airport to Cape May County is Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), located approximately 40 miles northeast of the county. Airlines such as Spirit Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines operate flights to and from this airport from major hubs across the country.

Other transportation options:

  • Train: Visitors can take a train to Atlantic City Rail Terminal and then proceed by car or bus to Cape May County.
  • Bus: Various bus companies operate routes to Cape May County, including NJ Transit and Greyhound.
  • Ferry: For a unique and scenic experience, visitors can also reach Cape May County by taking a ferry from Lewes, Delaware, to Cape May, New Jersey.

Communities Near Cape May County
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6 communities near Cape May County

0 Homes for Sale

Osprey Point

For Sale
  • High $400ks - High $400ks
  • 149 Homes (2 for sale)
  • 55+ Age Restriction
  • Resale Homes Only
  • 2004 - 2004
  • 1 reviews
View Community Contact Agent

Legacy at Cape May

For Sale
  • Low $300ks - High $300ks
  • 141 Homes
  • 55+ Age Restriction
  • Resale Homes Only
  • 2007 - 2014
  • No Reviews
View Community Contact Agent

Gatherings at Cape May

For Sale
  • Mid $300ks - Mid $400ks
  • 115 Homes
  • 55+ Age Restriction
  • Resale Homes Only
  • 2006 - 2013
  • 1 reviews
View Community Contact Agent

Gateway Shores

For Sale
  • High $100ks - High $200ks
  • 66 Homes
  • 55+ Age Restriction
  • Resale Homes Only
  • 1996 - 2002
  • No Reviews
View Community Contact Agent

55+ Monthly Housing Market Trends in Southern New Jersey Area

Wynndemere

For Sale
  • High $300ks - Mid $400ks
  • 62 Homes (1 for sale)
  • 55+ Age Restriction
  • Resale Homes Only
  • 2001 - 2011
  • No Reviews
View Community Contact Agent

Four Seasons at Stone Harbor

For Sale
  • High $300ks - Low $400ks
  • 60 Homes
  • 55+ Age Restriction
  • Resale Homes Only
  • 2008 - 2009
  • No Reviews
View Community Contact Agent

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1056 Southern Hills Drive, Banning, CA

Meadow Ranch Community

  • 3 bed
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  • 3 bath
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  • 2320 SqFt
MLS CV23099287
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