Cost of Living in Atlantic County, New Jersey
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Atlantic County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Atlantic County, New Jersey
Atlantic County's rent burden tops nation
Atlantic County residents spend 20.7% of household income on rent, well above the national average of 18.5%. While the county's median household income of $76,819 slightly exceeds the national median of $74,755, housing costs consume a larger share of earnings here than in most U.S. counties.
Middle-of-the-road affordability in New Jersey
Atlantic County ranks in the middle tier among New Jersey's 21 counties for rental affordability, with a 20.7% rent-to-income ratio slightly higher than the state average of 19.1%. The county's median rent of $1,325 sits well below the statewide average of $1,577, offering some relief compared to northern New Jersey.
More affordable than Cape May, pricier than Cumberland
Atlantic County's $1,325 median rent falls between its southern neighbors: Cape May County renters pay $1,345 monthly, while Cumberland County averages just $1,254. Compared to nearby Burlington County's $1,669, Atlantic offers noticeably cheaper housing while maintaining similar income levels.
Rent or own? Atlantic County costs diverge
Renters in Atlantic County face $1,325 monthly payments versus homeowners paying $1,675 monthly, creating a $350 gap. With median household income at $76,819, housing costs consume roughly 21-26% of income depending on tenure—a squeeze that leaves limited room for other expenses.
Consider Atlantic for better beach access and affordability
If you're weighing South Jersey options, Atlantic County delivers below-state-average rents paired with solid median income, making it competitive for renters and moderate-income buyers. The county's lower home values ($272,700) compared to Bergen ($593,200) or Essex ($494,400) offer an exit ramp from New Jersey's steepest coastal markets.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Atlantic County
Rent Burden
20.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,792
per month
Owner Cost Burden
26.2%
of gross income
The median home in Atlantic County may be a stretch
Median home value is $272,700. Estimated monthly cost: $2,177 vs. your max of $1,792.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.