Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ship Bottom, NJ
Considering a move to Ship Bottom, NJ? This charming coastal town has a small population of around 1,100 and is known for its relaxed beach lifestyle and high median home price of $875,000. The cost of living is notably above the national average, with rents near $2,300 and a strong owner-occupied housing market. Residents enjoy low crime rates, mild summers, and quick commutes (about 24.5 minutes), plus access to reputable local schools and healthcare options nearby. Ship Bottom is perfect for those seeking a quiet, oceanfront community with a safe, neighborly feel.
Demographics - Ship Bottom, NJ
Demographics - Ship Bottom, NJ
Ship Bottom is a close-knit coastal community of about 1,100 people, featuring a high population density and a median age of 55, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The town is predominantly White and has a nearly balanced gender ratio, with a small percentage of non-English speakers, creating a friendly and familiar atmosphere.
Population:
1,100
Density:
2,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
55.0
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.2%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ship Bottom, NJ?
The cost of living in Ship Bottom is significantly above the national average, driven mostly by housing, with median home values around $875,000 and rents averaging $2,300 per month. Utilities and everyday expenses also run higher than average, making it a premium destination for those seeking beachside living.
Median House Value:
$875,000
Gross Rent:
$2,300
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,120
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
142.0
Grocery:
128.0
Housing:
181.0
Utilities:
116.0
Transportation:
130.0
Health Care:
112.0
Miscellaneous:
115.0
Crime
Is Ship Bottom, NJ a safe place to live?
Ship Bottom boasts a very low crime rate, with only about 70 violent crimes and 600 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Residents enjoy a strong sense of safety, with odds of encountering violent crime at just 1 in 1,400.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
70
Property Crimes Per 100k:
600
Crime Index:
670
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,400
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 183
Weather
What is the weather like in Ship Bottom, NJ year-round?
Residents experience mild coastal weather, with summer highs in the low 80s and winter lows around 28°F, as well as over 60% sunny days each year. The town receives about 45 inches of rainfall annually, making it pleasant for outdoor activities and beach living.

Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
42°F

Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The community enjoys a moderate median household income of $81,500 and a family-friendly atmosphere, with most residents commuting about 25 minutes for work. A high percentage of adults hold at least a high school diploma, and the poverty rate remains relatively low at 7.4%.
Median Income:
$40,000
Household Income:
$81,500
Family Income:
$98,000
Per Capita Income:
$50,100
Income Male:
$58,500
Income Female:
$43,800
Poverty Rate:
7.4%
Non English Speakers:
5.8%
Rent:
$2,300
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
24.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.2%
Bachelors or More:
38.5%
Education
How are the schools in Ship Bottom, NJ?
Local students attend the well-regarded Long Beach Island Grade School, which offers a low student-teacher ratio for personalized attention. Higher education is within reach, with Ocean County College located about 28 miles away in Toms River.

Public Schools
Name:
Long Beach Island Grade School
Street:
201 20th St, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008
Phone:
609-494-2341
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
8.3

Colleges
Name:
Ocean County College
City:
Toms River
State:
NJ
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
8,200
Healthcare
Healthcare access is strong, with coverage for 96% of residents and a nearby major hospital, Southern Ocean Medical Center, offering comprehensive services. The area maintains a good ratio of physicians to residents, ensuring quality medical care is readily available.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Southern Ocean Medical Center
Address:
1140 NJ-72 W, Manahawkin, NJ 08050
Phone:
(609) 597-6011
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.0%
Health Care Index:
72.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ship Bottom, NJ?
Ship Bottom’s housing market is characterized by high property values, with a median home price of $875,000, and a strong owner-occupied rate of 74%. Home values have seen healthy appreciation, and rental options are available, though at a premium.
Median Home Price:
$875,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,300
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
13.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle their vehicle registrations and licenses through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, conveniently accessible online or at the main office in Trenton. The DMV provides a full range of services for all local drivers.
State:
New Jersey
Department:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Address:
225 E. State Street, Trenton, NJ 08666
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.