Ocean City, NJ


3 Reviews



BestPlaces offers the best, most comprehensive city reports,
with insight into cost of living, crime, climate, and more.
Ocean City, NJ

About Ocean City, NJ

Ocean City, NJ is a vibrant beach town located on the Jersey Shore. Stretching for 8 miles along the coastline, Ocean City offers scenic beaches filled with sunbathers and surfers alike. The iconic Boardwalk is packed with family-friendly attractions and activities such as mini golf, arcades, rides, and more. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. Whether it's relaxing at the beach or strolling along the Boardwalk, Ocean City has something for everyone! Small metro area set in the coast and coastal plains of the Mideast region. Primary industries include tourism and recreation. Noteworthy features include shoreline and retirement destination. - Along the southern coast of New Jersey, 10 miles south of Atlantic City and 120 miles east of Philadelphia, PA..

Location Details

State: New Jersey
County: Cape May County
Metro Area: Ocean City Metro Area
City: Ocean City
Zip Codes: 08226
Cost of Living: 22.7% higher
Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Elevation: 7 ft above sea level
Buying or selling a home?
Find top real estate agents in Ocean City.
Find A Top Agent

Dig Deeper on Ocean City

The Ocean City, NJ metro area is a charming coastal region in southern New Jersey, celebrated for its stunning beaches and family-oriented atmosphere. Founded in 1879 as a Christian seaside resort, Ocean City has preserved its welcoming, community-focused character, earning it the nickname "America's Greatest Family Resort."

Geographically, this area is set on a barrier island flanked by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Great Egg Harbor Bay on the other. This strategic location gifts Ocean City with miles of sandy beaches and makes it an ideal spot for various water-related activities. The climate here is mild, with warm summers perfect for beach outings and cool winters that transform the town into a quiet retreat.

When it comes to the economy, tourism stands as the backbone of Ocean City. The influx of visitors during the summer months breathes life into the local economy, supporting a wide array of businesses from hotels and restaurants to retail shops and entertainment venues. The area also boasts a robust fishing industry, catering to both commercial and recreational needs. Despite the seasonal nature of tourism, which sees a dip in the colder months, the local economy thrives on the vibrancy of its tourist season.

Politically, the Ocean City metro area has shown a tendency to lean conservative, with a strong Republican presence. This reflects in the voting patterns, where a majority have historically supported Republican candidates across local, state, and national elections. However, it's important to acknowledge that political views can vary widely among residents.

Life in Ocean City offers a unique blend of coastal charm and community engagement. Residents have the luxury of beach access for swimming, surfing, and boating, alongside a calendar filled with community events and festivals that foster a tight-knit atmosphere. The Ocean City Boardwalk is a central hub of activity, offering amusement rides, shopping, and dining options that appeal to all ages.

For those considering moving to Ocean City, it's crucial to be mindful of the town's seasonal dynamics. The population swells in the summer, leading to bustling streets and busy beaches, but winters are significantly quieter. Prospective residents should also prepare for the higher cost of living, particularly in terms of real estate, which is influenced by the town's desirable coastal location. Additionally, being part of a coastal community means staying informed about weather precautions, especially during hurricane season.

In summary, residing in the Ocean City, NJ metro area means embracing a lifestyle that balances the serenity of coastal living with the vibrancy of a tourist destination. It's a place where community values are held high, and the natural beauty of the surroundings enriches daily life. Newcomers should be ready for the rhythm of seasonal changes and dive into the myriad of opportunities for recreation and involvement in this close-knit community.

Ocean City Cost of Living
$$$$

About an hour to Philadelphia, shoreline, and low personal crime make Ocean City a great place to live.

$849,300
+60.2% higher than avg
$88,414
+21.9% higher than avg
$1,680 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
+14.9% higher than avg
Ocean City Crime
53.5 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Ocean City, New Jersey
$162,720
for a family
$51,200
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Ocean City
   About an hour to Philadelphia
High home prices
   Shoreline
High unemployment
   Low personal crime
Gets muggy and sticky
Reviews for Ocean City
    See all (3)

Over 14 years ago

I've spent many summers in OC since the 1970s. It's a wonderful family town...a dry town! No alcohol sales, no bars! Long boardwalk with 2 amusement parks, a water  More

   |    Reply

I adore OC. I live 6 blocks from the beach, 2 from the bay. Beautiful scenery. Peaceful surroundings. Summer resort time is a little hectic, but fun. Winters are  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

I have summered or lived in Ocean City, NJ since I was born 41 years ago. Change, change, change is the common theme in this city. One constant is safe, family fun! The  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ocean City

Cost of Living
Compare Ocean City, NJ
cost of living
Compare food, housing, utilities, and more in Ocean City, New Jersey to any other city in the US.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.