Middlesex County 55+ Retirement Communities

Middlesex County is a popular choice for active adults who are looking to buy a home in a 55+ active adult community. With its rich history, convenient location, and abundant amenities, Middlesex County provides a desirable environment for those seeking a vibrant lifestyle. The county is home to several notable cities, including Edison, New Brunswick, and Woodbridge. Edison boasts a thriving commercial sector and diverse dining options, while New Brunswick is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. Woodbridge offers a mix of suburban charm and urban amenities, with beautiful parks and recreational facilities.

For more information about visiting or moving to Middlesex County, the following local resources can be helpful:

• Middlesex County Official Website: Access information about county services, events, and local government initiatives.
• Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce: Explore business and community resources, networking opportunities, and events.
• Home News Tribune: Stay updated on the latest news, events, and happenings in Middlesex County.

Affordability and Cost of Living 

Middlesex County offers a more affordable cost of living compared to other areas in the state. According to recent data, the median home price in Middlesex County is around $435,500, which is higher than the state median of $432,100. This makes Middlesex County an attractive option for homebuyers looking for more affordable housing options in New Jersey. When it comes to groceries and utilities Middlesex County's costs align with the state average but are high compared to the national average. Transportation costs in Middlesex County  are higher than both the state and national averages.

Middlesex County imposes a sales tax rate of 6.625 percent on most taxable goods and services, groceries, prescriptions, and clothing are exempt. The property tax rates in Middlesex County vary depending on the municipality, with the county average being approximately 1.76 percent. 

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 does not have an estate tax but it does have an inheritance tax. The inheritance tax is applicable to certain beneficiaries based on their relationship to the deceased and the value of the inheritance. 

Climate and Geography 

Winters in Middlesex County are generally cold, with average temperatures ranging from the low 20s to the mid-40s. The county typically receives an average annual snowfall of around 25 inches, providing opportunities for winter activities and sports. Summers in Middlesex County are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the low 70s to the mid-90s. The humidity levels can reach around 70 percent, creating a muggy environment during the peak of summer. Middlesex County experiences an average annual rainfall of approximately 48 inches, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. Middlesex County is occasionally influenced by the "Nor'easters," powerful winter storms that can bring significant snowfall and gusty winds to the region. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, and occasional severe weather events, such as hurricanes or tropical storms, may affect the area.

Middlesex County is situated in the heart of New Jersey's Raritan Valley region. The county is known for its diverse and picturesque scenery. The Raritan River runs through parts of Middlesex County, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The county is surrounded by various parks and nature reserves, providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. Middlesex County is within easy driving distance of the beautiful Jersey Shore. Residents also enjoy easy access to cultural attractions, dining options, and shopping centers in nearby cities like New Brunswick and Princeton.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment 

Middlesex County offers a wide range of recreational activities, cultural events, and entertainment options. Here are just a few examples of the diverse array of activities, events, and entertainment in Middlesex County:

Golf and Racquet Sports

• Tamarack Golf Course in East Brunswick
• Forsgate Country Club in Monroe Township
• The Club at Woodbridge in Woodbridge
• Edison Racquet Club in Edison

Hiking, Biking, and Boating

• Cheesequake State Park in Matawan
• Rutgers Ecological Preserve in Piscataway
• D&R Canal State Park in Franklin Township
• Raritan River Greenway in New Brunswick

Museums and Historical Sites

• Zimmerli Art Museum in New Brunswick
• East Jersey Old Town Village in Piscataway
• Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park in Edison
• Cornelius Low House Museum in Piscataway

Performing Arts

• State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick
• George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick
• Crossroads Theatre Company in New Brunswick
• Plays-in-the-Park in Edison

Shopping

• Menlo Park Mall in Edison
• Woodbridge Center Mall in Woodbridge
• Brunswick Square Mall in East Brunswick
• Bridgewater Commons in Bridgewater

Parks and Gardens

• Johnson Park in Piscataway
• Donaldson Park in Highland Park
• Merrill Park in Woodbridge
• Roosevelt Park in Edison

Festivals and Fairs

• Middlesex County Fair in East Brunswick
• Raritan River Festival in New Brunswick
• Highland Park Arts in the Park Festival in Highland Park
• Monroe Township Cultural Arts Commission Summer Concert Series

Health and Wellness 

Middlesex County provides a range of health and wellness benefits for its residents. The county is in close proximity to major medical centers including Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, JFK University Medical Center in Edison, and Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy.  All of these hospitals offer comprehensive care and specialized services. 

Middlesex County has various options for self-care and maintaining an active lifestyle. There are numerous fitness centers, gyms, and wellness studios throughout the county that cater to different interests and fitness levels. These facilities provide exercise classes, strength training, yoga, and other activities. The county is also home to several parks and nature trails that are popular for walking, hiking, and outdoor recreation. For those interested in maintaining a healthy diet, Middlesex County hosts several farmers markets which offer a variety of locally sourced fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and other farm-fresh products. The markets promote healthy eating habits and support local farmers and producers.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

When considering moving to an active adult retirement community in Middlesex County it's essential to visit the area and explore its offerings firsthand. This two-day itinerary will help you get acquainted with the area, explore various towns, and meet with a local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to assist you in finding your ideal retirement community.

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast or a freshly brewed cup of coffee at Brewed Awakening.
• Explore the town of Metuchen, known as the "Brainy Borough," and stroll along its charming Main Street. Take in the historic architecture, browse boutique shops, and visit the Metuchen Farmers Market if it's open on the day of your visit.

Afternoon:

• Head to the town of Edison and have lunch at Harold's New York Deli, famous for its enormous sandwiches and classic Jewish deli fare.
• Visit the Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park, where you can learn about the fascinating life and inventions of Thomas Edison, one of the greatest inventors in history.
• Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at Menlo Park Mall, home to a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Evening:

• For dinner, indulge in Italian cuisine at La Tavola Cucina in South River. This family-owned restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere along with delicious traditional dishes.

Day Two

Morning:

• Begin your day with a hearty breakfast or a tasty pastry at Brunswick Bagels. This local favorite is known for its fresh bagels and friendly service.
• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss your retirement community preferences, ask questions, and learn about the available options in Middlesex County.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Diner, a popular spot known for its extensive menu and friendly atmosphere.
• Visit Thompson Park, a beautiful park in Monroe Township that offers scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and a lake. Take some time to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Evening:

• End your visit with a delightful dinner at The Frog and The Peach in New Brunswick. This upscale restaurant features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, creating a memorable dining experience.

Getting to Middlesex County, NJ

Whether visitors choose to fly, drive, take a train, or use other modes of transportation, Middlesex County is easily accessible from different parts of the country, providing a convenient and welcoming destination for retirees and visitors.

Driving:

• If driving from the north, take Interstate 287 or the Garden State Parkway southbound, which connect to various major highways in Middlesex County.
• From the south, take Interstate 95 (New Jersey Turnpike) northbound, which runs through the eastern part of the county.
• From the west, Interstate 78 and Interstate 195 provide access to Middlesex County.

Flying:

The closest major airport to Middlesex County is Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), located approximately 20 miles northeast of the county. Newark Liberty Airport is served by a wide range of airlines, including major carriers such as United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and JetBlue Airways. The airport offers domestic and international flights, with numerous connecting flights available from primary hubs across the United States. 

By Train:

Amtrak provides train service to the nearby Metropark station in Iselin, Middlesex County. The station is conveniently located near major highways and is served by both Amtrak and NJ Transit trains.