Columbus, NJ 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview

Columbus is a small community in Burlington County, situated within Mansfield Township, in Southern New Jersey. It’s best known for its quaint environment, close-knit community, and a large year-round farmers market. Active adults looking to retire on the east coast with all four seasons will surely appreciate Columbus. 

Climate & Geography

The climate in Columbus is humid subtropical, meaning the area experiences all four season, with summers that are hot and humid, while winters are cool to cold. Residents can expect more rainfall and less snowfall than the national averages, and approximately 205 sunny days throughout each year.

The surrounding terrain is primarily coastal plains, consisting of low, flat land. Crafts Creek runs through the community and flows from the Delaware River which is just to the north and west of the community. A few miles southeast of the community is the border of the state's Pine Barrens region, a large area of protected pine forests. 

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment

Columbus is a very quaint, mostly rural community with parks, trails, and plenty of greenspaces. Residents enjoy walking and bike riding through the community during the warmer months, and there is shopping, local taverns, and international cuisine along the main route through the community for indoor activities. The New Jersey Renaissance Faire is also held in Columbus.

The Columbus Farmers Market is one of the oldest and largest farmers markets in the Deleware Valley. The market operates year round with both outdoor and indoor stalls, providing a wide array of food goods, flowers, and hand-made merchandise to the community.

The larger city of Philadelphia is about 30 miles west of Columbus, providing convenient access for a day trip or weekend getaway to explore a wider variety of activities.

Cost of Living & Taxes

The overall cost of living in Columbus is slightly higher than the national average but lower than the state average. Transportation and housing costs are the highest individual indexes, while health care costs are much lower than average. Groceries and utilities are just above average.

New Jersey is considered moderately tax friendly to retirees, depending on their level of income and assets. The state does not tax Social Security benefits, and although all other forms of retirement income are taxed, there is a substantial deduction of $75k for residents who are 62+ and have an annual gross income of less than $100k. For retirees with an income between $100k and $150k this deduction is reduced by a certain percentage. Property taxes in New Jersey are some of the highest in the country, but there are exemptions and other property tax relief programs available for residents who qualify. Sales taxes are average and do not apply to medicine, groceries, and some clothing items. 

Health Care

The Philadelphia metro area ranks in the top 105 communities on Gallup's Well-Being Index.

There are two hospitals within 10 miles of Columbus: Virtua Memorial Hospital and Lourdes Medical Center of Burlington County. Both hospitals are rated high performing in various adult procedures and conditions, according to U.S. News.