Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ocean City, NJ
Thinking of moving to Ocean City, NJ? With a population of just over 11,000, this popular coastal community offers stunning beaches, a relaxed lifestyle, and a strong sense of safety, with violent crime rates well below national averages. The median home price stands at $699,000, reflecting Ocean City's appeal as a desirable shore destination, while average rents for a two-bedroom are about $1,350. Residents enjoy short commute times (under 25 minutes) and highly rated schools, plus plenty of sunny days to enjoy the outdoors. Explore Ocean City's unique blend of seaside charm, education, and quality of life below.
Demographics - Ocean City, NJ
Demographics - Ocean City, NJ
Ocean City, NJ is home to about 11,229 residents, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 54.2, reflecting its appeal to retirees and families alike. The city has a moderate population density and a balanced gender ratio, creating a welcoming, small-town atmosphere. Around 6.5% of residents speak a language other than English, adding some cultural diversity.
Population:
11,229
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.2
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.8%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ocean City, NJ?
Living in Ocean City comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, with a median home value around $699,000 and rents typically at $1,350 for a two-bedroom. Utilities and groceries are also above national averages, making it a premium coastal community. State taxes range from 1.4% to 10.75%, so budgeting is important for new residents.
Median House Value:
$699,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,750
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$900
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
137.0
Grocery:
115.2
Housing:
160.8
Utilities:
109.0
Transportation:
118.0
Health Care:
105.6
Miscellaneous:
110.2
Crime
Is Ocean City, NJ a safe place to live?
Ocean City enjoys a low violent crime rate of just 54 incidents per 100,000 people, far below the national average, while property crime remains moderate. The chance of experiencing violent crime is about 1 in 1,850, contributing to a strong sense of safety. This makes the city especially attractive for families and retirees seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
54
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,215
Crime Index:
1,269
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,850
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 82
Weather
What is the weather like in Ocean City, NJ year-round?
Residents experience mild, coastal weather with warm summers averaging highs around 83°F and mild winters with lows near 27°F. The city enjoys about 58% sunny days each year and receives roughly 41.6 inches of rainfall, making outdoor activities popular throughout the seasons. The climate is ideal for those who love spending time by the ocean.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
43°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Ocean City neighborhoods are characterized by a median household income of $82,000 and a low poverty rate under 8%. Most residents have completed high school, and nearly half hold a bachelor's degree or higher, fostering a well-educated community. Commute times average just under 25 minutes, promoting a relaxed, small-town lifestyle.
Median Income:
$38,250
Household Income:
$82,000
Family Income:
$99,100
Per Capita Income:
$52,800
Income Male:
$53,700
Income Female:
$43,800
Poverty Rate:
7.9%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.2%
Commute Time:
24.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.5%
Bachelors or More:
49.1%
Education
How are the schools in Ocean City, NJ?
Ocean City boasts highly rated public schools, including Ocean City High School and Intermediate School, both known for small class sizes and strong academic programs. Several private school options and proximity to Atlantic Cape Community College offer a range of educational opportunities. The community values education, with nearly half of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Ocean City High School
Street:
501 Atlantic Ave
Phone:
609-399-1290
Students:
1,250
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.6
Name:
Ocean City Intermediate School
Street:
1801 Bay Ave
Phone:
609-399-5611
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Augustine Regional School
Street:
1337 Asbury Ave
Phone:
609-522-2704
Students:
140
Colleges
Name:
Atlantic Cape Community College
City:
Mays Landing
State:
NJ
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
6,000
Healthcare
The area is served by Shore Medical Center, offering comprehensive general and emergency services nearby. With 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 94% of the population covered by health insurance, access to healthcare is reliable. The healthcare index of 78.0 indicates quality services for families and retirees alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Shore Medical Center
Address:
100 Medical Center Way, Somers Point, NJ 08244
Phone:
(609) 653-3500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.1%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ocean City, NJ?
Ocean City's housing market is robust, with a median home price of $699,000 and an owner-occupied rate of over 72%. Home values have appreciated by 7.1% in the past year, and rental vacancies remain moderate, reflecting steady demand. The market favors buyers looking for long-term value in a desirable coastal setting.
Median Home Price:
$699,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Ocean City residents are served by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission located in nearby Cape May Court House. The local DMV provides a full range of services, from licensing to vehicle registration. For convenience, appointments and information are accessible online or by phone.
State:
New Jersey
Department:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Address:
9 West Shell Bay Ave, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
Phone:
1-609-292-6500
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.