Overview
Located in Central New Jersey, Spring Lake is a quiet, residential seaside borough of Monmouth County. It is popular for its beach access, golfing and tennis, and shopping district. With all the necessary daily amenities and a quaint, small-town charm, Spring Lake is an attractive location for many retirees.
Climate & Geography
Spring Lake has a humid subtropical climate characterized by high precipitation all year round and hot summers. Rainfall is higher than average and snowfall is average for the U.S. Winters are cold and prone to excess snow from seasonal nor’easters, and while the sea breeze helps regulate summer temperatures, extreme highs are possible. Residents can expect around 206 days of sun each year.
The borough is bordered on three sides by water: the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Lake Como to the north, and Wreck Pond to the south. It is part of the Atlantic Coastal Plains, which feature low hills, tidal marshes, and flat, sandy beaches.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Outdoor recreation is abundant in Spring Lake. The Spring Lake Beach is a quiet, local beach along the Atlantic Ocean. Lake Como and Wreck Pond offer swimming and fishing opportunities. In addition, Allaire State Park to the west of the city has extensive trails along the Manasquan River as well as antique steam trains that visitors can ride in.
Active adults can also play tennis at multiple parks and clubs, including Divine Park on Spring Lake and the Spring Lake Bath and Tennis Club. For golfers, the Spring Lake Golf Club and Fairway Mews Community and Golf Club are located just west of the city.
Spring Lake’s shopping district features local boutiques, casual eateries, and a local theater that hosts community events and local shows.
Cost of Living & Taxes
Spring Lake’s cost of living is much higher than the national average because of high home costs. Several other factors, including transportation, groceries, and utilities are also above average.
New Jersey does not tax Social Security benefits, and while all other forms of retirement income are taxed, the state offers large deductions for retirees. Property taxes are the highest in the county, but retirees can take advantage of a Homestead Benefit Program to relieve some of the cost. Sales taxes are similar to the rest of the U.S.
Health Care
According to Gallup’s Well-Being Index, New Jersey scores well in the social factor of the survey, ranking in the top 10 states for that particular index.
There are no hospitals in Spring Lake, but the Jersey Shore University Medical Center in nearby Neptune City is nationally ranked by U.S. News. Other nearby high performing hospitals within 15 miles include Hackensack Meridian Health Ocean Medical Center in Brick, Monmouth Medical Center-Long Branch Campus in Long Branch, and Hackensack Meridian Health Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank.