Sand-Loving Retirees Might Want To Reconsider Settling Down in This State as Beach Tag Prices Soar ...Saudi Arabia

Growing up in Philadelphia is synonymous with summers at the New Jersey Shore. Every neighborhood in Philly has a certain beach they tend to flock to—for those of us in Lawncrest, Wildwood, and Cape May were the spots. Home to one of the best boardwalks in the U.S., Wildwood has so many fun things to do and experience, but admittedly, the beach is subpar. Tourists walk what feels like miles to the shoreline, which is often immensely overcrowded, and it doesn't have a reputation for being the cleanest.

However, it is the state's largest beach and is free to visit. That's right: the other beaches in New Jersey all cost money to step onto during the season, and it reportedly just got more expensive than ever. If you're a retiree on the hunt for your beachfront golden years home, you might want to consider skipping New Jersey altogether.

Related: 5 Spots Where Retirees Can Enjoy the Best Bird Watching in the U.S.

2026 Jersey Shore Beach Badge Price Increases

Much like everything else in 2026, inflation has raised the prices of NJ beaches, with some areas jumping by $25, according to an NJ.com analysis. Here is how much a summer at these Jersey beaches will set you back:

It's important to note that many of these towns offer "pre-season" discounts if you purchase your seasonal badges before May 31, 2026. For example, in Avalon and Stone Harbor, you can secure your seasonal badge for $37 if purchased by the end of May, saving $5 off the regular season price. They also offer senior discounts, which lowers the price for many retirees individually, but isn't helpful when the grandkids come to visit.

Related: The Worst State to Retire In Was Also Named the Best Place to Achieve the American Dream, and We're Confused

New Jersey for Retirees

Regardless of beach prices, retirees may want to skip out on Jersey altogether. The Garden State was recently dubbed one of the worst spots for retirees to settle. In 2025, Seniorly compiled data on all 50 states, calling it “one of the least affordable states in the country.” The report says the tax rate for top earners is 10.75 percent, which could apply to those with substantial retirement savings and investments.

They also noted that the state has poor access to arts and recreation opportunities for seniors and has a very unhealthy senior population, with 65 percent of the seniors living in Jersey having more than three chronic conditions.

For retirees looking to stay in the Northeast part of the country (be it for family or health), there are some East Coast options that are more tax-friendly. Delaware beaches, including Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, are among the country's top underrated retirement destinations. Plus, the state’s beloved tax-friendliness includes the fact that Social Security income isn’t taxed, there is no sales tax, and property taxes are low.

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