Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cape May, NJ
Considering a move to Cape May, NJ? This charming beach city has a small population of 2,768 and offers a laid-back coastal lifestyle with a median home price of $685,000 and average rents around $1,585. Cape May boasts a very low violent crime rate (80 per 100K), short commutes (19 minutes), and high educational attainment, while enjoying 61% sunny days each year. With great schools, a strong sense of community, and beautiful weather, Cape May is an appealing choice for those seeking a safe and scenic place to call home.
Demographics - Cape May, NJ
Demographics - Cape May, NJ
Cape May is a small coastal city with a population of just 2,768, featuring a high median age of 58.2, indicating a mature community. The area is predominantly White (89.4%) and has a low population density, creating a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Non-English speakers make up about 7.5% of residents, adding some diversity to the local culture.
Population:
2,768
Density:
1,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
58.2
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.4%
Black:
3.7%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
5.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cape May, NJ?
Living in Cape May comes at a premium, with a median home value of $685,000 and a cost of living index of 143, well above the national average. Housing is the biggest expense, and monthly rents average $1,585, reflecting the city's desirable coastal location. Utilities and transportation are moderately priced, while state taxes range from 1.4% to 10.75%.
Median House Value:
$685,000
Gross Rent:
$1,585
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$850
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
143.0
Grocery:
125.5
Housing:
173.0
Utilities:
115.0
Transportation:
129.0
Health Care:
113.0
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is Cape May, NJ a safe place to live?
Cape May enjoys a very low violent crime rate of 80 per 100,000 people, making it one of the safer communities in New Jersey. Property crime is somewhat higher, but the overall chance of being a victim of violent crime is just 1 in 1,250. Residents can feel secure in this peaceful beach town.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
80
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,200
Crime Index:
1,280
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,250
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Cape May, NJ year-round?
Cape May offers classic coastal weather with mild winters (lows around 29°F) and warm, pleasant summers (highs up to 83°F). The city receives about 45.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny skies 61% of the year, perfect for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
51°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Residents of Cape May benefit from a strong sense of community and a median household income of $71,300. Unemployment is moderate at 5.7%, and most locals have a high level of educational attainment, with nearly 95% holding at least a high school diploma. The average commute is a short 19.4 minutes, contributing to a relaxed daily pace.
Median Income:
$39,500
Household Income:
$71,300
Family Income:
$87,200
Per Capita Income:
$46,900
Income Male:
$51,800
Income Female:
$41,700
Poverty Rate:
11.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,585
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.8%
Commute Time:
19.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.8%
Bachelors or More:
41.4%
Education
How are the schools in Cape May, NJ?
Families in Cape May have access to quality education, with highly rated public and private schools and a low student-teacher ratio. The city is also close to Atlantic Cape Community College, just 13 miles away, offering higher education opportunities. High educational attainment is common, with over 41% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Cape May City Elementary School
Street:
921 Lafayette St
Phone:
609-884-8485
Students:
140
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.5
Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady Star of the Sea School
Street:
520 Lafayette St
Phone:
609-884-4437
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Atlantic Cape Community College
City:
Cape May Court House
State:
NJ
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
6,000
Healthcare
Cape May is served by Cape Regional Medical Center, offering general and emergency services close by. The city has good access to healthcare, with 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and 94% health insurance coverage, ensuring most residents have their health needs met locally.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Cape Regional Medical Center
Address:
2 Stone Harbor Blvd, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
Phone:
(609) 463-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.2%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cape May, NJ?
The Cape May housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $685,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $1,585. About two-thirds of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has experienced a healthy 7.2% home appreciation rate over the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates reflect a stable and desirable market.
Median Home Price:
$685,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,585
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
11.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Cape May residents are served by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission located in nearby North Cape May. The DMV provides all standard motor vehicle services and can be contacted by phone or through their official website for appointments and information.
State:
New Jersey
Department:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Address:
3305 Bay Shore Rd, North Cape May, NJ 08204
Phone:
(609) 292-6500
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.