$1,707,797Average Value$872Average Price per Sq Ft83Homes For Sale
Downbeach coastal life on New Jersey’s South Shore
Ask anyone who spends time on New Jersey’s South Shore for must-see tourist attractions, and they're sure to bring up wide-eyed Lucy the Elephant. Staring over the Atlantic Ocean from the beach block, Lucy is a former restaurant and hotel mascot in the shape of an Asian elephant, whose hollow insides have been repurposed as several businesses over nearly 150 years and now draw tens of thousands of annual visitors for guided tours. This rare example of zoomorphic architecture is many visitors’ introduction to Margate City, an overwhelmingly residential pocket of Downbeach New Jersey caught between the $10 million mansions of Longport and the buzzy boardwalk business district in Atlantic City. On avenues organized mostly by alphabetical order from Argyle to Washington, freshly painted historic homes and sleek new construction stretch from Beach Thoroughfare to the Atlantic Ocean. Ongoing infrastructure projects take on the flooding endemic to coastal cities. Lucy’s hard-won longevity as a landmark and ongoing preservation efforts parallel Margate City's own carefully kept coastal charm and small-town ambiance that draw year-round residents and tourists, which locals call "shoobies," out to where the Atlantic Ocean crashes against Absecon Island.
Despite coming up in centuries past through coastal railway tourism when it was still called South Atlantic City, the 1970 census reflected an overwhelmingly full-time residential community and placed the population at around 10,000; today, that number is closer to 5,000, reflecting Margate’s transition into a popular second-home locale for people hailing from New York and Philadelphia. Summer homes, despite their popularity, are still only part of the picture. “With the pandemic, there were a lot of people looking to get out of high-density areas. They rented here for exorbitant prices just to get out of the city. Some of them ended up buying and getting rid of their primary residences in the suburbs of Philadelphia,” says Daniel Smith, owner of Daniel J. Smith Real Estate who has lived in neighboring Ventnor City since 1980. “When we see people coming to the zoning board for construction approval, a lot of times they’re expanding a summer home into a permanent residence. We always applaud them for that. They call it, ‘getting sand in your shoes.’”
Outside the city’s own limited market of short-term rental homes and by-the-week summer beach houses, several of Atlantic County’s biggest employers are nearby – Atlantic City’s casinos are just up the beach, and the Federal Aviation Administration’s William J. Hughes Technical Center is on the mainland about 10 miles away.
AtlantiCare has boosted Absecon Island’s healthcare industry as well as access to care, from its regional hospital and emergency room in Atlantic City to the smaller specialist offices peppered south toward Ventnor City and beyond.
The Boardwalk in Margate City extends all the way to Atlantic City.
There are many playgrounds in Margate City, most of them right on the beach.
Locals in Margate City can take a walk on the boardwalk everyday.
Most of the homes in Margate City are located less than 5 minutes away from the Atlantic Ocean.
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Sandy beaches blocks from the Ventnor City Boardwalk
Sunbathers bearing beach tags don’t fight crowds on commercial blocks during the summer months – straight over the dunes, interrupted only by bright blue accessibility ramps and the occasional public restroom, stretch Margate City’s sandy beaches. Lifeguards watch over swimmers in the Atlantic Ocean during the summer months, catering to an influx of second-home return residents and snowbirds come north to roost. Margate’s own boardwalk was ransacked by a hurricane in the 20th century and never replaced, but the long, quiet stretches of Ventnor’s bike-and-pedestrian-friendly boardwalk are only blocks away to the north. “Ventnor’s got the best set-up because there’s no commercial on the boardwalk. It’s just peaceful – you go ride your bike, walk, sit on the benches, find a nearby fishing pier. But you can go all the way up around Absecon Inlet to Gardners Basin,” Smith notes.
Margate City’s bayfront offers its own wealth of waterfront recreation, lined with marinas and docks that launch boaters into the connected salt marshes and waterways that locals typically just call “the Bay.” While people walk the beach even as blustery winter settles over the shore, an indoor story time at the Margate Public Library or time spent on the indoor courts at the Marjorie and Lewis Katz Jewish Community Center are more weather-proof ways to pass the time.
There are many homes right on the water in Margate City.
Locals in Margate City love fishing off the pier on the beach.
The coast line in Margate City runs from Margate City to Atlantic City.
Margate City is a small shore town surrounded by the beach and a Marina.
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Blocks of single-family homes and the Marven Gardens Historic District
East Coast coastal architecture staples like gambrel roofs and multi-story porches are common on Margate City’s closely packed and sidewalk-lined streets, but the city’s homes are truly diverse. Well-preserved homes in a lively medley of architectural styles sit behind looping sidewalks and careful landscaping in the Marven Gardens Historic District, spelled as a portmanteau of Margate and Ventnor thanks to its position on the cities’ border, not with the spelling error made popular in the board game, Monopoly. Condos in squat two- and three-story complexes and the rare midrise building range from the high $200,000s to over $1 million. The median single-family home price is around $1.2 million, much higher than the National Association of Realtors’ reported national average home value of $416,700. Based on a number of factors, some homes can easily go for more than five times that figure. Homes also tend to linger longer on the market, taking an average of 54 days to sell compared to the national average of 44 days.
Margate City has homes right on boardwalk allowing easy beach access.
There are many newer beach inspired homes in Margate City.
One of the most coveted neighborhoods in Margate City is the Marvin Gardens Historic District.
The streets in Margate City are quiet and very well maintained year round.
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Community festivals downbeach from Atlantic City
Atlantic City’s casinos and live music venues headline enormous concerts and conventions further north of Margate City throughout the year. Downbeach, community and cultural events tend toward a more lowkey, family-friendly sensibility. Neighbors face off across seasons through the Margate Cornhole League. Tie-dye shirts and a soundtrack full of the Grateful Dead’s music bring an unexpected, eclectic rock twist to the springtime Cherry Blossom Festival. The annual Beachstock claims to be the planet’s biggest beach party, packing a full day of live music, team sports and food and craft vendors along Atlantic Avenue each June.
Shopping and dining on Ventnor and Amherst avenues
Down Ventnor Avenue, Margate City’s commercial life is quieter than the buzzy outlet and boardwalk districts of Atlantic City, but clusters of businesses bunch near the city’s borders with Ventnor and Longport. The Margate Business Association entreats locals to shop small, highlighting a network of popular restaurants, boutique clothing stores and specialty grocers connected by sidewalks and crosswalks. Another commercial area, the Bay District, runs parallel to the bayside along Amherst Avenue, housing a blend of marinas, fishing charters and restaurants like Steve & Cookie’s By the Bay that promote waterfront dining alongside fresh seafood menus. Several houses of worship are scattered throughout Margate City, including synagogues like Young Israel of Margate and churches like Blessed Sacrament.
You can rent boats fishing equipment and more in Margate City.
You can grab some fresh smoked Salmon at Water Dog in Margate City.
Margate City has many privately owned small businesses.
Start your day in Margate City with a fresh cup of coffee.
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Traveling around Absecon Island and to mainland cities like Philly
While cycling is popular throughout much of Absecon Island, Margate City riders will need to be careful navigating streets with limited bike infrastructure on the way to the shoreline-hugging boardwalk. NJ Transit buses make stops along Ventnor Avenue on the way from Longport to Atlantic City. Longer-distance commuters take Margate Boulevard to the mainland and have a roughly 60-mile drive to Philadelphia. Atlantic City International Airport is about 10 miles away.
You can hop on a train from Margate City and get to Philadelphia in under two hours.
The bus in Margate City goes to Atlantic City and more.
NJ transit runs every day near Margate City.
There are many bus stops all over Margate City,
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Transitioning from Margate City schools to nearby districts
For kindergarten through eighth grade, students are enrolled in the Margate City School District which operates two schools open to Margate and Longport residents and earns an A-minus from Niche. In ninth grade, many kids enter Atlantic City’s public school district, attending Atlantic City High School which earns a B-minus. Families may also choose to send kids to small charter and private schools near Margate or to Ocean City High School, standing one island away across the Ocean City-Longport Bridge.
Four seasons, flood infrastructure and crime rates in Margate City
Hot summers and freezing winters mark the extremes of the four seasons Margate City sees, its average monthly temperatures peaking in the 80s and bottoming out in the low 30s. Salty sea air and regular precipitation blows in throughout the year, but more severe nor’easters tend to occur most often in the colder months.
Consulting a FEMA flood map reveals that Margate City falls entirely in a floodplain, from Beach Thoroughfare to the Atlantic Ocean. Flood insurance is a need for homeowners. On the public infrastructure side, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has long been a major player in projects like improved stormwater management systems. State and local groups have gone back and forth on potential mitigation efforts in years past, especially regarding potential dune restoration projects on the oceanfront.
According to the FBI’s crime data, the Margate City Police Department reported a total of 14 violent crimes in 2023, down from 18 in 2022. The department also reported 97 total property crimes in 2023, higher than the 78 reported in 2022.
Written By
Julia Szymanski
Photography Contributed By
Vincent Mauriello
Video By
Emily McNamara
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Matthew Ackerman,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Margate City, NJ sell after 67 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Margate City, NJ over the last 12 months is $1,160,000, up 16% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Imagine opening the door to your brand-new Margate Beach House. Perfectly situated close to the beach and all town amenities, this 2,260 sq ft new construction is designed for effortless shore living. Step inside and let the 4-stop elevator whisk you to the main level. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, featuring a premium Samsung Bespoke appliance suite, elegant Quartz countertops,
Just 3 Short Blocks to the Beach!!!! This beautifully Maintained 2 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath Condo is the Perfect Margate Beach Getaway. Enjoy Walking or Biking to the Beach and all of the Local Restaurants and Shops Margate Has to Offer! Featuring an Open Floor Plan with Great Natural Light, Newer Stainless Steel Appliance Package, Full Size Washer/Dryer Conveniently Located in the Unit, Hardwood
Welcome to this charming and original all-American Four-Square Beauty. Built in 1925, this timeless gem presents the perfect blend of classic charm and a fantastic proximity to the beach. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home sits on a premium 3,508 square foot corner lot and is 2.5 blocks from the beach and adjacent to the vibrant, "Parkway," neighborhood. An abundance of natural light fills this home,
Margate Towers Unit 504 an oversized luxury one bedroom which can be converted to a two bedroom. It is that big. Located on one of the prettiest beaches in NJ. The 5th floor offers beautiful sunset and bay views from every room and your large private deck. A very well-run building on the beach with off street parking. Washer and Dryer in unit is a possibility now. Enjoy it all year round or rent
Fantastic Location! Only 1.5 blocks to the beach and two streets from Longport City. Rehab or build new. Lot can accommodate a home over 3,000 square foot. Lot is very long at 25 x 125. Build a 5 bed 4 bath home! Room for a pool, garage, parking and more. Short walk to Steve n Cookies, Gilchrist, Ice Cream, restaurants, shops, stores and more. Please be very careful when walking through property.
Property being sold as is with approved plans for 3 units. Rare opportunity to own and build 2 bedroom, 3 bedroom and 5 bedrooms unit running street to street Benson to Decatur Avenues.
Direct Ocean front unit offering Ocean Views for miles from every room in this oversized large one bedroom with brand new flooring with newly renovated bathroom located on the third floor. Sit out on your expansive deck and enjoy the waves and dolphins! Ask about having a washer and dryer in the unit. Margate Towers has not had an ocean front this large for sale in years! Very well run building
Great opportunity to purchase a home on an incredible block that’s rapidly transforming! Welcome to 6 N. Lancaster Avenue — a charming, well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home situated on a 40x86 lot in one of Margate’s hottest up-and-coming neighborhoods. This is not a teardown — it’s a solid, lovingly cared-for home with tons of character, featuring a lovely front porch, private backyard, and
Welcome to 109 North 36th Avenue, Longport, New Jersey—an architectural masterpiece built in 2019 by Mainline Builders, where classic design and modern craftsmanship come together seamlessly. The primary living space features a state-of-the-art kitchen with a premium appliance package, a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace with a linear gas insert, and coffered ceilings. Offering five bedrooms, each
Perfectly positioned on a desirable corner lot just steps from the JCC, pickleball courts, and tennis facilities, this spacious home offers both location and lifestyle. A charming covered front porch welcomes you inside to beautiful hardwood floors and a thoughtfully designed layout. The large living room features a step-down design with a bump-out window, creating architectural interest and
Stately looking home on a 65' x 80' lot on the corner of one of the widest streets in Margate! This has the potential to be a Margate mansion, either new construction or renovation. There are 3 decks, one off the rear from the Great Room, another off the 1st floor, and one off the primary bedroom. You enter into a wide, welcoming hall which is like a room in itself. The great room has a
SPECTACULAR, DREAM HOME WITH SPECIAL, ONE-OF-A-KIND BACKYARD & IN-GROUND POOL COMING SOON!! You will not find another yard like this in Margate! This fully renovated residence boasts almost 5,000 SF of living space with 5/6 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, attached garage and room for the whole family. Every detail was thought of here!! Beach luxury with high-end features and all the bells & whistles
BRIGHT AND UPDATED BEACH HOUSE UNIT! Welcome to your shore retreat at the sought-after Beach House Condos in Margate. This beautifully updated multi-level condo offers 2 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and thoughtfully designed living space. The first level features a spacious primary suite with a private balcony and full bath. Upstairs, enjoy open-concept living with a cozy woodburning fireplace,
AVAILABLE NOW! Spend your summer by the shore in this charming Margate home, where coastal breezes, open space, and relaxed living create the perfect seasonal escape. Nestled in a quiet, serene neighborhood yet just moments from beaches, dining, and local attractions, this inviting home offers the perfect summer getaway. Outdoor living is a true highlight: a wide, tree-lined lawn provides natural
AVAILABLE NOW! Spend your summer by the shore in this charming Margate home, where coastal breezes, open space, and relaxed living create the perfect seasonal escape. Nestled in a quiet, serene neighborhood yet just moments from beaches, dining, and local attractions, this inviting home offers the perfect summer getaway. Outdoor living is a true highlight: a wide, tree-lined lawn provides natural
Prime parkway section summer rental! This perfectly positioned Margate beach house offers all you need to enjoy summer 2026. Hosting 5 bedrooms, 2 full baths, plenty outdoor space all within walking distance of the beach and nightlife. What more could you possibly need?
Prime parkway section summer rental! This perfectly positioned Margate beach house offers all you need to enjoy summer 2026. Hosting 5 bedrooms, 2 full baths, plenty outdoor space all within walking distance of the beach and nightlife. What more could you possibly need?
Prime parkway section summer rental! This perfectly positioned Margate beach house offers all you need to enjoy summer 2026. Hosting 5 bedrooms, 2 full baths, plenty outdoor space all within walking distance of the beach and nightlife. What more could you possibly need?
Start your summer early—available from May 21st through the end of June, including Memorial Day weekend! Escape to bay bliss at this Margate BAY FRONT HOME! Gorgeous Open Bay and panoramic sunset views await you from your multiple decks and expanded living area. Plenty of room to entertain both inside and out! This inviting home features a first-floor in-law suite, an open-concept main level with
Monthly Summer Rental! Welcome to "A Nook by the Sea," your ultimate summer escape located just one block from the beach in the heart of Margate. This charming, updated 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom retreat offers the perfect coastal lifestyle. The home features a bright, fully equipped kitchen, a newly renovated bathroom, and is tastefully decorated with a relaxing shore vibe. Enjoy the refreshing ocean
Summer rental just one block from the beach! Charming first-floor studio featuring a Murphy bed and pull-out sofa for flexible living space. Amenities include a community pool, on-site laundry, shared BBQ area, and convenient parking next to the unit. Perfect for a relaxing shore getaway close to the beach.
Stunning BAYFRONT Corner Townhome!! Enjoy breathtaking bayviews from this corner end unit. With 2,685 sqft of newly renovated space, this home features expansive decks and generous indoor living perfect for your shore getaway! Watch boats sail into the marinas from every window! Fully customized and beautifully updated, highlights include all-new glass deck railings, designer furnishings,
Stunning BAYFRONT Corner Townhome!! Enjoy breathtaking bayviews from this corner end unit. With 2,685 sqft of newly renovated space, this home features expansive decks and generous indoor living perfect for your shore getaway! Watch boats sail into the marinas from every window! Fully customized and beautifully updated, highlights include all-new glass deck railings, designer furnishings,
Stunning BAYFRONT Corner Townhome!! Enjoy breathtaking bayviews from this corner end unit. With 2,685 sqft of newly renovated space, this home features expansive decks and generous indoor living perfect for your shore getaway! Watch boats sail into the marinas from every window! Fully customized and beautifully updated, highlights include all-new glass deck railings, designer furnishings,
SUMMER 2026----Completely renovated Margate beach front efficiency available Memorial Day through Labor Day. Picture perfect place to spend your summer nights with gorgeous ocean views and beachfront pool!
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