The Zillow Home Value Index illuminates remarkable transformations in New Jersey’s coastal real estate landscape from 2015 through 2024. The data reveals an extraordinary pattern of appreciation in what were traditionally working-class waterfront communities, with Keansburg leading all coastal towns with a staggering 141.8% increase since 2015.
The most dramatic post-pandemic surge occurred in Atlantic City, showing an 81.4% gain since 2020, despite maintaining its position as the most affordable coastal option. Perhaps most striking is the clustering of values among the Raritan Bay communities, with South Amboy, Union Beach, and Perth Amboy all falling within a relatively narrow band between $467,000 and $498,000, suggesting a regional market equilibrium.
The geographical distribution of these affordable coastal havens tells an intriguing story about New Jersey’s shoreline economics. While Atlantic City stands alone at the southern end with significantly lower values, a clear north-to-south pattern emerges in the remaining communities.
The Raritan Bay region commands the highest prices within this affordable segment, while the Barnegat Bay communities of Ocean Gate and Beachwood occupy the middle ground. Investment patterns show particular intensity in smaller communities, with Ocean Gate’s 78.6% post-pandemic growth suggesting increasing recognition of these hidden gems. Even more telling is the fact that every community in this group has seen its values more than double since 2015, except for Beachwood which came remarkably close at 98.9%.
1. South Amboy, NJ
Perched strategically on Raritan Bay, South Amboy leads the affordable coastal market with its 2024 median home value of $497,871. The city’s remarkable trajectory from $253,586 in 2015 through $336,683 in 2020 reflects its growing appeal as a commuter-friendly waterfront destination. With a near-doubling of values since 2015 at 96.3% growth and a robust 47.9% appreciation since 2020, South Amboy exemplifies the strong market dynamics of northern New Jersey’s coastal communities.
About South Amboy
South Amboy is known for its rich maritime history and vibrant waterfront development, reflecting its deep-rooted connection to shipping and transportation industries. The town boasts a revitalized arts and cultural scene, highlighted by community events and local performances that celebrate its heritage. South Amboy is also recognized for its growing commuter infrastructure, including the ferry service expansion that supports regional connectivity. Historically, the city has been influenced by industrial sectors such as clay mining and manufacturing, which have shaped its economic foundation.
Where is South Amboy?
South Amboy is located in Middlesex County along the southern shore of the Raritan Bay. It is situated directly across the bay from Staten Island, New York, providing easy access to New York City via major highways and public transportation. The city is bordered by Sayreville to the west and Old Bridge Township to the south. South Amboy’s strategic location near the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike makes it a key transit hub for commuters and regional travel.
2. Bayville, NJ
Nestled along the serene Barnegat Bay, Bayville commands attention with its 2024 valuation of $490,513. While earlier historical data isn’t available, the community’s impressive 60.9% surge from its 2020 value of $304,785 speaks to its emerging status as a desirable coastal destination, particularly for those seeking value in Ocean County.
About Bayville
Bayville is known for its close connection to the Jersey Shore, offering abundant outdoor recreation with attractions like Double Trouble State Park and Cedar Creek for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The town has a strong maritime culture, with industries historically tied to fishing, boat building, and coastal tourism. Bayville hosts local events and festivals that celebrate its coastal heritage, fostering a strong sense of community. Additionally, small businesses and seasonal tourism contribute significantly to the town’s economy, supporting local artisans, restaurants, and recreational services.
Where is Bayville?
Bayville is an unincorporated community within Berkeley Township in Ocean County. It is situated along the Jersey Shore, near Barnegat Bay, providing easy access to coastal areas and state parks like Double Trouble State Park. Bayville is conveniently located along U.S. Route 9, offering connections to nearby towns and the greater Jersey Shore region.
3. Union Beach, NJ
This resilient Raritan Bay community showcases remarkable growth, reaching $484,547 in 2024. Rising from modest beginnings at $212,588 in 2015, through $313,431 in 2020, Union Beach’s stunning 127.9% long-term appreciation and 54.6% post-pandemic gain reflect its successful recovery from Superstorm Sandy and growing market appeal.
About Union Beach
Union Beach is known for its resilient waterfront community, featuring a scenic beachfront and a boardwalk that offer stunning views of the Raritan Bay. The town has a strong maritime heritage, with industries historically centered around fishing, boating, and small-scale manufacturing. In recent years, Union Beach has focused on revitalization efforts, including flood mitigation projects and the enhancement of public spaces to support community resilience. Local businesses, dining establishments, and seasonal tourism play a vital role in the town’s economy, fostering a close-knit and vibrant community atmosphere.
Where is Union Beach?
Union Beach is a borough located in Monmouth County along the Raritan Bay. It is part of the Bayshore Region, bordered by Hazlet Township to the west and Keyport to the south. The borough offers easy access to major roadways like the Garden State Parkway, making it convenient for commuters traveling to New York City and other nearby areas. Its waterfront location provides scenic views of the New York City skyline and access to coastal recreation.
4. Perth Amboy, NJ
This historic maritime hub demonstrates extraordinary growth with its 2024 value of $467,140. The city’s evolution from $202,937 in 2015 to $321,847 in 2020 culminates in a remarkable 130.2% nine-year appreciation, though its more modest 45.1% post-pandemic gain suggests a maturing market.
About Perth Amboy
Perth Amboy is rich in colonial history, famously home to the Proprietary House, the only remaining official governor’s mansion from the original thirteen colonies. The city has a strong maritime legacy, with its waterfront historically serving as a hub for shipping, shipbuilding, and trade industries. In modern times, Perth Amboy has diversified its economy with a mix of manufacturing, retail, and small businesses that reflect its cultural diversity. The city’s waterfront redevelopment, featuring marinas, parks, and cultural events, has revitalized the area, blending historical charm with contemporary community life.
Where is Perth Amboy?
Perth Amboy is located in Middlesex County along the shores of the Raritan Bay and the Arthur Kill waterway. It is directly connected to Staten Island, New York, via the Outerbridge Crossing, providing easy access to New York City. The city is also well-connected by major highways, including the Garden State Parkway and U.S. Route 9, making it a key transportation hub in the region.
5. Keyport, NJ
The “Pearl of the Bayshore” shimmers with a 2024 value of $458,688, reflecting its charm as a walkable waterfront community. Starting from $224,419 in 2015, rising to $292,869 in 2020, Keyport’s journey includes impressive 104.4% long-term growth and a solid 56.6% gain since 2020.
About Keyport
Keyport has evolved into a vibrant hub for small businesses, with a charming downtown featuring unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries that attract visitors year-round. Keyport hosts popular community events and festivals that celebrate its nautical history and foster a strong sense of local pride. In recent years, the town has focused on waterfront revitalization and eco-friendly initiatives, supporting sustainable tourism and preserving its coastal environment.
Where is Keyport?
Keyport is a borough in Monmouth County situated along the Raritan Bay. It is part of the Bayshore Region and is bordered by Matawan to the south and Union Beach to the northeast. Keyport has convenient access to major roadways, including the Garden State Parkway and Route 35, making it accessible for commuters traveling to New York City and other nearby areas. Its waterfront location provides scenic views and access to boating, fishing, and other coastal activities.
6. Beachwood, NJ
This Toms River tributary gem sparkles with a 2024 value of $434,251. From its 2015 benchmark of $218,285 through $256,894 in 2020, Beachwood’s appreciation story includes a near-doubling at 98.9% since 2015 and a robust 69.0% post-pandemic surge.
About Beachwood
Beachwood is a charming residential community known for its strong connection to the Toms River and Barnegat Bay, offering abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, and water recreation. The town was originally developed as a resort destination, and its family-friendly atmosphere is maintained through community events like summer concerts and fireworks displays. Beachwood’s local economy is primarily supported by small businesses, public services, and recreational industries tied to its waterfront location. The borough also features extensive parks and nature trails, fostering an active outdoor lifestyle for residents and visitors alike.
Where is Beachwood?
Beachwood is a borough in Ocean County situated along the Toms River, providing direct access to Barnegat Bay. It is bordered by the township of Toms River to the north and Pine Beach to the east. The borough is easily accessible via Route 9 and the Garden State Parkway, making it convenient for travel to other Jersey Shore destinations and inland areas.
7. Ocean Gate, NJ
This intimate Barnegat Bay borough presents compelling value at $415,405 in 2024. The community’s ascent from $196,424 in 2015 through $232,529 in 2020 represents an impressive 111.5% long-term gain, crowned by a remarkable 78.6% post-pandemic appreciation.
About Ocean Gate
Ocean Gate is a charming waterfront community known for its scenic boardwalk, public beaches, and picturesque views of the Toms River, making it a popular destination for boating and water recreation. The town has a rich history as a summer resort, with its economy traditionally supported by tourism and small, locally owned businesses. Ocean Gate fosters a close-knit community atmosphere through seasonal events, festivals, and recreational activities that celebrate its coastal charm. In recent years, the town has focused on maintaining its historic character while promoting environmental preservation and sustainable development along its waterfront.
Where is Ocean Gate?
Ocean Gate is a small borough in Ocean County situated along the Toms River, near the mouth of Barnegat Bay. It is bordered by Berkeley Township to the west and south, with easy access to nearby coastal communities. The borough is conveniently connected by local roads to major highways like the Garden State Parkway, facilitating travel to other parts of the Jersey Shore. Ocean Gate’s waterfront location provides scenic views and direct access to boating, fishing, and other recreational water activities.
8. Tuckerton, NJ
The Gateway to the Tuckerton Seaport shows steady growth, reaching $391,493 in 2024. Beginning at $185,644 in 2015, advancing to $234,989 in 2020, Tuckerton’s value proposition includes 110.9% long-term appreciation and a healthy 66.6% gain since 2020.
About Tuckerton
Tuckerton is renowned for its rich maritime heritage, highlighted by the Tuckerton Seaport, a working maritime village and museum that preserves the area’s boatbuilding and fishing traditions. The town has historically been driven by industries such as clamming, fishing, and boatbuilding, reflecting its strong coastal roots. Today, Tuckerton blends tourism with local craftsmanship, offering visitors unique experiences through cultural events, artisan markets, and waterfront activities. Its economy is also supported by eco-tourism and environmental conservation efforts, promoting sustainable interaction with the surrounding coastal ecosystems.
Where is Tuckerton?
Tuckerton is a borough in Ocean County located along the Tuckerton Creek, which leads directly to Little Egg Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. It is conveniently accessible via U.S. Route 9, connecting it to other coastal towns and inland areas. Tuckerton’s waterfront location makes it a gateway to the Jersey Shore, offering easy access to boating, fishing, and maritime activities.
9. Keansburg, NJ
This Bayshore borough demonstrates extraordinary market dynamics, with 2024 values at $359,811. From humble beginnings at $148,809 in 2015, through $204,156 in 2020, Keansburg leads all affordable coastal towns with a stunning 141.8% nine-year appreciation, complemented by a robust 76.2% post-pandemic surge.
About Keansburg
Keansburg is known for its historic amusement park and boardwalk, which have been central to its identity as a popular family-friendly entertainment destination for over a century. The town has a strong tourism-driven economy, historically supported by seasonal attractions, beachfront activities, and local businesses catering to visitors. Keansburg’s waterfront has undergone revitalization efforts to enhance storm resilience and attract new development while preserving its classic shore-town charm. Additionally, the town’s fishing and small-scale maritime industries contribute to its coastal character and local economy.
Where is Keansburg?
Keansburg is a borough in Monmouth County situated along the Raritan Bay, offering views of the New York City skyline. It is bordered by Middletown Township to the west and Union Beach to the south. The borough has convenient access to major roadways like Route 36 and the Garden State Parkway, making it easily reachable for commuters and visitors. Keansburg’s waterfront location supports its beachfront attractions and recreational activities, contributing to its identity as a historic shore destination.
10. Atlantic City, NJ
The iconic gaming destination anchors the affordable end of New Jersey’s coastal market at $215,336 in 2024. Rising from $98,875 in 2015 through $118,733 in 2020, Atlantic City’s value evolution includes impressive 117.8% long-term growth and leads all communities with an extraordinary 81.4% post-pandemic appreciation, suggesting renewed investor confidence in this storied resort city.
About Atlantic City
Atlantic City is renowned for its iconic boardwalk, which is one of the oldest and longest in the world, and its vibrant casino and entertainment industry that has been a major economic driver for decades. The city is also famous for hosting the Miss America Pageant, adding to its cultural and historical significance. Beyond gaming, Atlantic City has a growing convention and events industry, drawing visitors for business, concerts, and large-scale expos. In recent years, efforts to diversify the economy have led to investments in renewable energy projects, arts, and culinary tourism to revitalize the city beyond its traditional casino sector.
Where is Atlantic City?
Atlantic City is located in Atlantic County on Absecon Island along the Atlantic Ocean. It is connected to the mainland by several bridges and highways, including the Atlantic City Expressway and U.S. Route 322, providing easy access for visitors. Its coastal position makes it a prime destination for beachfront tourism, gaming, and entertainment.
