Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Cape May, NJ
Considering a move to West Cape May, NJ? With a cozy population of just over 1,000, this charming coastal town offers a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and a tight-knit community. Homes here have a median price of $645,000, while rents average $1,575. Crime rates are low, with just 112 violent crimes per 100K, and commute times are short at 18 minutes. Residents enjoy outstanding air quality, a high rate of sunny days, and access to solid local schools—making West Cape May ideal for those seeking small-town living by the sea.
Demographics - West Cape May, NJ
Demographics - West Cape May, NJ
West Cape May is a close-knit community of just over 1,000 residents, with a high median age of 53, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White, with a small but notable presence of other ethnicities, and about 9% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its compact size and density create a friendly, neighborhood feel ideal for those seeking a peaceful coastal lifestyle.
Population:
1,028
Density:
1,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.4
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.6%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Cape May, NJ?
Living in West Cape May comes with a relatively high cost of living, as reflected by its index of 138. Housing is the largest expense, with median home values at $645,000 and average rents of $1,575, while other costs like utilities and groceries are also above the national average. Residents should budget accordingly for both daily expenses and property investment.
Median House Value:
$645,000
Gross Rent:
$1,575
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$870
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
138.0
Grocery:
115.5
Housing:
160.0
Utilities:
112.5
Transportation:
127.0
Health Care:
113.0
Miscellaneous:
110.0
Crime
Is West Cape May, NJ a safe place to live?
West Cape May is considered a safe community, with low violent crime rates at just 112 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 893 chance of being affected. Property crime is somewhat more common but still moderate, making the area attractive for families and retirees seeking peace of mind. The overall crime index remains well below major urban areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
112
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,025
Crime Index:
1,137
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 893
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in West Cape May, NJ year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild coastal climate, with summer highs averaging 83°F and winter lows around 29°F. The area receives about 44.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Seasonal changes are gentle, offering comfortable conditions year-round.
Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
West Cape May’s households have a median income of $68,200, and the poverty rate is below 9%, suggesting a stable local economy. Education attainment is strong, with over 94% holding a high school diploma and more than 40% earning a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute is a short 18 minutes, enhancing work-life balance for residents.
Median Income:
$42,500
Household Income:
$68,200
Family Income:
$84,500
Per Capita Income:
$38,100
Income Male:
$51,000
Income Female:
$32,500
Poverty Rate:
8.9%
Non English Speakers:
8.7%
Rent:
$1,575
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.5%
Commute Time:
18.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.2%
Bachelors or More:
40.6%
Education
How are the schools in West Cape May, NJ?
Families in West Cape May benefit from well-rated local public schools, including West Cape May Elementary and Lower Cape May Regional High School, both known for low student-teacher ratios. Private education is also available at Cape Christian Academy, while nearby Atlantic Cape Community College offers higher education opportunities within a 30-mile drive. The community values education with high graduation and college attendance rates.
Public Schools
Name:
West Cape May Elementary School
Street:
301 Moore St
Phone:
609-884-4614
Students:
115
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Name:
Lower Cape May Regional High School
Street:
687 Route 9
Phone:
609-884-3475
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.3
Private Schools
Name:
Cape Christian Academy
Street:
10 Oyster Rd, Cape May Court House
Phone:
609-465-4132
Students:
140
Colleges
Name:
Atlantic Cape Community College
City:
Mays Landing
State:
NJ
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
6,000
Healthcare
Residents have convenient access to major healthcare facilities, including Cape Regional Medical Center, and a solid network of physicians with a ratio of 2.1 per 1,000 people. Over 91% of locals have health insurance coverage, contributing to overall community well-being. The healthcare index reflects reliable and accessible medical services.
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:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
72.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Cape May, NJ?
The housing market in West Cape May is robust, with a median home price of $645,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of nearly 68%. Home values have appreciated by over 7% in the past year, reflecting steady demand in this desirable coastal area. Rental options are available, with average rates for a two-bedroom at $1,575 and a low foreclosure rate.
Median Home Price:
$645,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,575
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
DMV services for West Cape May residents are provided by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission at a nearby North Cape May location. The office offers a full range of vehicle and licensing services both in person and online, making registration and renewals convenient. Residents can find detailed information and resources on the official state website.
State:
New Jersey
Department:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Address:
3305 Bay Shore Rd, North Cape May, NJ 08204
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.