Published: June 15, 2025

Your Guide to Moving to the Jersey Shore

Dreaming of life by the beach? You’re not alone. From boardwalks and beach towns to fresh seafood and salty breezes, the Jersey Shore has long been a favorite destination, not just for vacations, but for year-round living. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or just a lifestyle change, moving to the Jersey Shore can be an exciting and rewarding experience. To help you make the move with confidence, we’ve put together this friendly and informative guide. Here are the key things to know, plan for, and look forward to when moving to one of New Jersey’s most iconic regions.

1. Choose the Right Shore Town for Your Lifestyle

The Jersey Shore isn’t just one place—it’s a stretch of over 140 miles, and every town has its own personality. Your experience will vary greatly depending on where you settle. Here are a few favorites:

• Asbury Park: Known for its artsy vibe, live music scene, and revitalized boardwalk.
• Point Pleasant Beach: A family-friendly town with a popular boardwalk and good schools.
• Belmar: Popular with young professionals and families, offering beautiful beaches, summer events, and a vibrant dining scene.
• Spring Lake: Quiet, upscale, and scenic, perfect for those who want peaceful surroundings and elegant charm.
• Long Beach Island (LBI): Relaxed beach living with low-key neighborhoods.

Before moving to the Jersey Shore, take time to visit different towns. Spend a day or two in each area you’re considering, talk to locals, and think about your commute, school preferences, and lifestyle needs.

2. Know the Costs of Living by the Beach

Living by the ocean sounds like paradise, but it can come with a price tag. Coastal properties often come with higher real estate costs and insurance premiums, especially for flood insurance. Renters should also expect to pay more during the summer season. Many landlords prefer weekly or seasonal tenants, especially in tourist-heavy towns. If you’re planning to live at the shore year-round, look for properties that are designated for full-time residency.

Be sure to budget for:

• Property taxes (which vary by town)
• Homeowners’ or renters’ insurance
• Flood insurance (mandatory in many areas)
• Summer utility spikes (especially electric bills with A/C)

Understanding the full financial picture is essential when moving to the Jersey Shore.

3. Plan Ahead for Seasonal Swings

One of the most unique things about living on the Jersey Shore is the dramatic seasonal shift. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the population in many towns doubles or triples. Tourists flock to the beaches, traffic increases, and everything from restaurants to parking becomes more competitive. Locals learn how to navigate the busy season with patience—and a few smart tricks. It’s a good idea to:

• Do errands early in the day or midweek
• Find hidden local spots for dining and shopping
• Get resident parking permits (where available)

After summer ends, many businesses close or reduce hours, and the towns get quieter. Some people love the peace and calm of the off-season; others miss the energy. Think about what kind of year-round environment you want when choosing your new home.

4. Understand the Local Real Estate Market

Moving to the Jersey Shore means dealing with a competitive housing market, especially in spring and early summer. Homes with ocean views or walkable beach access go quickly, and prices can vary wildly from town to town.

If you’re buying:

• Work with a local real estate agent who knows the shore.
• Act fast—desirable homes can sell in a matter of days.
• Don’t skip the home inspection. Salt air and sea moisture can take a toll on older homes.

If you’re renting:

• Long-term rentals can be hard to find in popular beach towns.
• Some properties are only available from September to May.
• Make sure your lease clearly states year-round access if that’s what you’re after.

5. Embrace the Coastal Lifestyle

Living at the Jersey Shore isn’t just about location—it’s about embracing the coastal way of life. You’ll notice a slower pace, friendly neighbors, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Some of the best perks include:

• Morning beach walks and evening sunsets
• Local farmers’ markets and seafood shacks
• Free (or cheap) summer concerts and events
• Seasonal traditions like bonfires and boat parades

When you make the move, take the time to get involved. Join a community group, volunteer at a beach cleanup, or attend town events. It’s a great way to meet people and feel more at home.

6. Be Prepared for Coastal Weather

When moving to the Jersey Shore, be ready for the weather, both the good and the unpredictable. Summers are warm and breezy, perfect for beach days. Winters are milder than in inland areas, though you’ll still get snow. The main concern? Storms. Coastal towns can face nor’easters and hurricanes, especially from August through October. If you’re buying property, make sure it’s built to handle high winds and rising water. Keep an emergency kit, stay alert to storm warnings, and know your evacuation route just in case.

7. Explore Local Schools and Services

If you’re moving with children, check out the local school districts. Some towns have highly-rated public schools, while others may require travel to neighboring communities for certain programs.

Other important local services to look into:

• Public transportation options (especially if you commute)
• Healthcare providers and hospitals
• Recycling, trash pickup, and storm preparation procedures
• DMV and municipal office locations

Each town operates a little differently, so don’t assume all shore towns follow the same rules or schedules.

8. Learn the Rules of Beach Living

Every Jersey Shore town has its own set of beach rules, and they can vary more than you’d expect. Before you move, it’s good to know:

• Beach Badges: Most towns require you to buy seasonal or daily passes.
• Dogs on the Beach: Usually not allowed in summer; some beaches allow dogs in the off-season.
• Parking: May be limited or require permits during peak months.
• Fire Pits and Grilling: Often restricted, especially on public beaches.

These rules might seem small, but they’re part of everyday life when you live near the ocean.

9. Enjoy Year-Round Activities

One of the biggest myths is that the Jersey Shore “shuts down” after Labor Day. While some places do go quiet, there’s still plenty to do in the fall, winter, and spring. Locals often say the off-season is when the shore really feels like home.

Off-season highlights:

• Fall festivals and Halloween boardwalk events
• Holiday markets and light shows
• Winter walks on quiet beaches
• Spring flower festivals and birdwatching

Moving to the Jersey Shore means you get to enjoy both the exciting summer and the peaceful charm of the quieter months.

10. Get to Know the Community

Last but not least—get to know your neighbors! The Jersey Shore is filled with friendly, tight-knit communities. Whether you’re in a small town or a larger one, locals tend to look out for each other and take pride in their home. From neighborhood potlucks to town Facebook groups and seasonal events, there are countless ways to connect. Becoming part of the community makes the transition smoother and makes living by the shore all the more rewarding.

There’s no doubt that moving to the Jersey Shore is a big decision, but it can also be one of the most rewarding moves you’ll ever make. With the right planning, a little local knowledge, and an open mind, you can settle into a vibrant, welcoming community where the beach is your backyard and every day feels like a fresh start. Whether you’re looking for laid-back beach living, family-friendly fun, or a place to enjoy your retirement, the Jersey Shore has a spot for you. So pack your bags, grab your flip-flops, and get ready to make your coastal living dreams a reality.

Ready to move to the Jersey Shore? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Central NJ or call (732) 800-5569 today for a free quote!