absecon /a changing town
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3/28/2011
i've lived in Absecon for 28 years. it is now a bedroom town for Atlantic city. It consists of primarily single family homes. From a summer resort AC has evolved into a year round destination resort that is at present in the doldrums due to the economy and competition from neighboring states.
Atlantic county once a republican stronghold is now about 25% non native born with a broad number of countries represented.At times when shopping I've not heard any english spoken at local malls. Absecon has some lesser degree of multiculturalism yet the most common surname in our school system is Patel which is Indian. in fairness most are not afraid of hard worki and cultural differences can create issues but only if you let them. in many ways it is a positive feature but of course it depends on your tolerance. we have many types of restaurants and Yoga is offered at a local temple for $2 per session.
Although technically in the Boston/washington corridor we are positioned slightly to one side and still retain some rural areas and non hectic pace of living. but this is changing daily. Being in the eastern portion Absecon is especially impacted by the growth that AC has produced.
our town is about 8000 people and although not everyone knows your name a small town aura exists. we are 1 hour from Philadelphia,2 from NYC and with luck 3.5 from DC. our climate is generally moderate although the past 2 winters have been harsh. usually i play golf year round although bundled in winter. recreational opportunities exist with state parks and wonderful beaches some of which are free. fishing is good from beaches or from boat.
Culturally AC offers alot as do the neighboring cities. the big negative is how much it costs to live here. real estate taxes,auto insurance,state taxes are all high.
we have many of the benefits that the NE offers and generally have some slight measure of isolation. Frequently with travel we realize how crowded the region is.
jan | Absecon, NJ