Living in America’s greatest family resort in the on- and off-seasons
If people familiar with New Jersey’s South Shore don’t know Ocean City's nostalgic boardwalk, Atlantic Ocean beaches and the labyrinthian blocks of beach houses that fill the barrier island, they've certainly heard of them. “Ocean City has built its reputation as America’s greatest family resort. That makes it clean, safe and quiet,” says Doug Bergen, Ocean City’s public information officer and an OC resident of nearly a decade.
For the better part of its existence, Ocean City has been among the South Shore’s most popular vacation towns. Still, many are less acquainted with what goes on in the city in the months not between Memorial Day and Labor Day. By the numbers, the population decreases to less than a tenth of its summer peak. The flashing lights of amusement park rides and many boardwalk businesses wind down, or at least reduce hours, until next season. Ocean City has long been known for second homes and by-the-week summer rentals, a reputation that still resonates. However, the rise in remote work has allowed seasonal tourists, also called shoobies, to set up permanent roosts in what were once temporary abodes rather than only joining the flocks of renters (and seagulls) when it’s hot. And with an off-season defined by wide-open coastline, charming holiday events and a well-rated school district, Ocean City is just as equipped to offer the ambiance of a classic shore town during its low tide as it is during high summer’s high tide.
Most homes in Ocean City are within walking distance to the beach.
Ocean City is big for summer rentals, most homes have large decks and porches.
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Beach tag access to Atlantic Ocean beaches
When visitors cross the Ocean City Boardwalk laden with beach day gear, they tend to peer over the grass-swept dunes, trying to glimpse the Atlantic Ocean. Local or tourist, however, they will be stopped by a teenager in a beach chair before they can start the long trek over the sand. Beach tags are needed to access Ocean City’s Atlantic Ocean beaches during the city’s summer season, the proceeds of which help to keep them beautiful year after year. The boardwalk is its own recreation destination, its wooden planks clearly labeled with lanes for walkers, bikers, runners and multi-user surrey bikes on the widest blocks. Through the summer, cycles of all sorts are restricted to the morning hours. Understandably, year-round residents look forward to “local summer,” those early weeks of fall when restrictions loosen, temperatures remain balmy and the relative potential for bike-on-bike collisions becomes much lower. While the ocean and boardwalk receive a lot of attention, Great Egg Harbor Bay lines the other side of Ocean City, packed with hassocks and meandering waterways for boaters and anglers to explore. Those that get sick of sand in their toes can enjoy some time indoors at places like the Aquatic & Fitness Center or Ocean City Free Public Library.
Don't forget to get your beach tags for the Ocean City beach.
Take in some nature on the Great Egg Harbor Bay in Ocean City.
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Blocks of porch-fronted beach houses in Ocean City
Laid out in even blocks from the back bays to the beach block, Ocean City’s housing is varied, but popular coastal motifs tie well-landscaped lawns and the overall architecture together. Large single-family homes stand close together, typically sporting two or three floors of porches out front to capture the ocean breeze, whether they were built in the early 20th century or are being rebuilt in New Traditional designs in the 2020s. Smaller homes that have not been replaced by new construction can still be found throughout the city, especially in the more winding, northern Ocean City Gardens area. Condos are popular, both in a few larger complexes and in one of a beach house’s multiple floors. Ocean City’s median single-family home price is more than $1.7 million, blowing the national median of $406,100 given by the National Association of Realtors out of the water. That cost, however, can sometimes be offset by Ocean City’s exceptional summer rental economy. “Some people are doing Airbnb or Vrbo, but there’s a lot of agencies in Ocean City that handle weekly rentals. You find a lot will do it both ways, and take what’s best for the week,” says Amy Reuter, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway who specializes in southern New Jersey and has recently begun living in OC full-time. Regardless of square footage, cost and style, houses with enough back alley or garage parking spaces are a must for many buyers; street parking can feel close to impossible when summer rolls around.
Most homes in Ocean City have a porch or deck so you can relax in a cool breeze.
The Ocean City population drastically increases during the summer months with available homes rentals.
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Shopping and dining on the boardwalk and Asbury Avenue
Reasonable minds can disagree on which of the boardwalk’s pizza shops and breakfast joints, fudge stores and watch-the-magic saltwater taffy shops are best, but long lines reveal some of the favorites. Toward the center of the island, Asbury Avenue is a quaint downtown shopping district where plenty of specialty shops, local restaurants and boutique art galleries line the sidewalks. Considering the city’s seasonality, locals keep mental lists of the places that open for longer than the summer. Nowhere in Ocean City, however, can anybody get a drink; since 1909, it has been illegal to manufacture or sell alcohol. Ocean City was designed as a Christian seaside summer escape, and plenty of local churches have stuck around alongside the religion-fueled anti-alcohol law. Bergen notes that despite OC being a dry town, there’s nothing stopping residents from partaking in the privacy of their own homes or grabbing a drink in a neighboring municipality.
Yianni's Cafe is a family owned restaurant and it is said they have the best bagels at the shore since 1997.
There is so many different things to chooses from at Stainton's in Ocean City.
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Boardwalk amusement and seasonal Ocean City events
The Music Pier, as its name suggests, sticks straight out over the beach from the boardwalk, a popular concert venue and homebase for the Ocean City Pops orchestra. Wonderland, a beloved amusement park that has long marked the northern end of the boardwalk with its castle-like facade and towering Ferris wheel, closed in 2024. There’s been much hubbub about potentially building a hotel, but zoning challenges have made any plans uncertain. In the meantime, amusement park fans need not worry – the coasters and carnival atmosphere of Playland’s Castaway Cove are a handful of blocks away.
Summer brings countless parades, events and tourist-centered attractions to the boardwalk. But one of the best-loved, according to Reuter, is a parade and party that takes place on the back bay. “In July, we have the Night in Venice. It’s a boat parade on the bay. Everybody decks out their boats and the houses along the bay, there’s fireworks – it's a big party,” she says. Smaller crowds celebrate off-season holidays with fanfare at the Halloween and Christmas parades.
Playland's Castaway Cove is one of the top attractions on the Ocean City Boardwalk.
The OC Waterpark is very popular place to spend a day during the summer in Ocean City.
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Biking in OC and driving to the mainland’s Garden State Parkway
Cyclists travel around the island on the boardwalk and in a handful of bike lanes. Bridges like the Ninth Street Bridge offer access to the mainland. Beyond Atlantic City’s casino and AtlantiCare-based hubs, the nearest big city is Philadelphia, about 65 miles away by way of the Atlantic City Expressway. Medical care is much closer to home at Shore Medical Center in Somers Point. The Garden State Parkway offers broad access to New Jersey’s shoreline destinations, including Atlantic City International Airport, which is about 16 miles from home. While Jitney buses only operate during the summer season, those needing to access NJ Transit can board buses at the Ocean City Transportation Center.
Just minutes from Ocean City is Shore Medical Center for all of your medical needs.
To get into Ocean City you will need to take one of the few bridges that go over the Great Egg Harbor Bay.
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Shore town athletes at Ocean City High School
Ocean City is family-friendly to more than seasonal visitors – Ocean City School District earns an A from Niche, ensuring that the kids sticking around off-season can access an excellent education. Ocean City High School earns an A-minus and is known for its student athlete culture, with plenty of fans cheering on the home team at Carey Stadium or rooting for practicing teams that come running by along the boardwalk or the shore.
Ocean City High School is rated #1 in best public high school in Cape May County.
Ocean City High School offers many sports programs for it's students.
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Understanding crime data, weather patterns and flood risk in OC
The Ocean City Police Department provides annual crime statistics to New Jersey’s Uniform Crime Reporting database. The most recent years for which full-year reports have been aggregated are 2021 and 2022, during which overall crime rose by 81%. Property crime was most common during both years, with violent crime rarely being reported.
Though many know Ocean City for its hot, beachy summers, it experiences all four seasons. Sand dunes often sparkle with snow through below-freezing winters.
It’s no fun to bring up flood risk on vacation, but Ocean City is one big flood zone. Dunes protect the oceanside, but the bay has long been the main cause of both nuisance flooding and worse storm surge. Bergen offers an accounting of the city’s successful mitigation efforts: “Whenever we repave streets, we try to elevate them as much as possible. Even two feet is the difference between a flooded street or not. Pumping stations can keep ahead of a lot of it. They’ve been life-changing, there’s only a small number of neighborhoods without them yet.” Ocean City’s current and future-facing plans for flood mitigation mean that residents can enjoy discounts on flood insurance through a program partnering with the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Written By
Julia Szymanski
Photography Contributed By
Mitchell Birnbaum
Video By
Mark Tilley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tom Montague,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Ocean City, NJ sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Ocean City, NJ over the last 12 months is $1,170,000, up 19% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
GARDENS HOME ON DESIRABLE LARGE LOT! An impeccably restored seaside gem in Ocean City’s highly sought-after Gardens neighborhood. Situated on a generous 65x100 lot, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath fully renovated charming home masterfully blends classic character with modern comfort, offering the perfect balance of timeless style and turnkey living. Thoughtfully preserving its original allure, it features
Welcome to 2924-26 Wesley Ave! Located in Ocean City's exclusive Gold-coast neighborhood, this immaculate duplex offers an open floor plan, granite, quartz, and tile throughout. This home has been meticulously maintained and has amazing ocean views! Also featuring private garages and plenty of storage. Enjoy your private path to the beach directly from your home. Why buy one floor of a duplex
934 Haven Avenue – Duplex for Sale in Ocean City Prime Location Just Steps to the Beach & Boardwalk Discover an exceptional investment opportunity in the heart of Ocean City’s sought-after shore district. Located just a short stroll from the pristine beaches and iconic boardwalk, 934 Haven Avenue offers the perfect blend of location, lifestyle, and income-producing potential. This beautifully
This beach-block studio sits just steps from the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, lively beaches, and only a short stroll to downtown shopping and dining. A beautifully maintained corner unit that offers the perfect way to enjoy everything America’s greatest family resort has to offer—without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re looking for a personal getaway, extended stays, or a smart rental to
Welcome to your perfect shore retreat! This beautifully maintained studio condo is situated less than two short blocks from the beach and boardwalk and in the heart of Ocean City - perfect for a short walk to the Asbury Shoppes and Restaurants downtown. This turnkey condo has been beautifully renovated with high end finishes, new heating, and new cooling! This cozy getaway offers a place to use
Step into a fully furnished and well-equipped coastal getaway on the 800 block of Plymouth Place, offering three true bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and a flexible lower-level den that provides added space for relaxation or visiting guests. This multi-level layout creates natural separation between living areas, giving everyone room to settle in comfortably whether you're staying year-round or
Nestled in one of Ocean City’s most peaceful neighborhoods, this single family is a beautifully renovated 5-bedroom, 3 full bath single-family home just a short stroll to the beach and minutes to Strathmere. Thoughtfully updated with a new roof, new front door, brand-new kitchen with new appliances, new flooring, fresh paint throughout, and stunning new bathrooms with designer tile, including a
Welcome to The FLANDERS Condominium Hotel and this SPACIOUS 1 bedroom, 1 bath CONDO! Located on the 8th floor, the VIEWS are incredible. Enter to find a SPACIOUS living room with an adjoining dining area. The UPDATED kitchen shines with granite countertops, a TRENDY backsplash, white cabinets, a dishwasher, a fridge, a cooktop, and a microwave. The bedroom easily holds a KING-sized suite, 2
Welcome to 1341 Pleasure Ave — a stunning single-family bay block home with breathtaking open bay views. Custom built and thoughtfully designed by Halliday Architects, this exceptional property offers high-end finishes and meticulous craftsmanship throughout. This home features quartz and granite surfaces, elegant tile work, solid wood two-panel doors, vessel sinks, and custom wainscoting and
Located directly on the beachfront in Ocean City’s Southend, 4919 Central Avenue presents a rare opportunity: ownership of the ground along the sand, with city-approved plans and architectural flexibility already in place. Set on a 37x100 lot, the existing duplex features 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths per unit, elevated above an oversized garage that provides generous off-street parking for both
Oversized Lot • Central Location • Expansive Decks • Garage + 3 Car Parking • Immerse yourself in serenity at the shore in this spacious and accommodating retreat, located just a few short blocks to the beach or Asbury Ave for brunch, coffee, and shopping. Thoughtfully updated and impeccably appointed, this second floor unit is truly move-in ready. Never rented but definite potential. This
Bay Avenue location • Water views • Covered front porch with sunset views • Sunroom • 2nd-floor front deck with 2 retractable awnings and sunset views • 4BR 3BA • 40x115 lot • Golf Course Adjacent • Attached garage Ideally situated along Bay Avenue in Ocean City, Cape May County, 2537 Bay Ave offers 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a 40 x 115 lot overlooking the Ocean City Golf Course with water
Lovely condo in a quiet, desirable North End neighborhood. This second-floor unit features 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath, complete with a convenient stackable washer and dryer. The spacious living area includes a versatile seating nook—perfect for a reading corner, home office, or additional lounge space. The eat-in kitchen with a breakfast bar adds both style and functionality. Just outside the
Updated yearly rental at 12 Genoa Ct, Ocean City in the sought-after Ocean Reef Condo Association. Offered fully furnished, this 2BR, 2.5BA bayfront condo offers 1,360 sq ft of well-planned living space plus two bayfront decks with wide open-water views and a sunset-facing orientation. The main level features a spacious living room, dining area, and kitchen—all positioned to capture the bayfront
Experience bayfront living at its best in this stunning WATERFRONT summer rental at Harbor House, located in the north end of Ocean City. This second-floor end unit offers spectacular bay views and incredible sunsets. The property features 1BR/1BA, a full kitchen, washer/dryer and excellent amenities; including fishing right at your doorstep, a relaxing pool, and a bayfront sundeck and barbecue
The advertised rate of $4,552/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of March 30, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Welcome to Ocean Colony! Discover beachside living at its finest with this beautifully updated condo in the heart of Ocean City! Renovations include a new open concept kitchen with white shaker style cabinets, granite counter tops, tiled back-splash, large island with lots of counter space and extra storage. Luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout kitchen, living area and bath. Gorgeous crown
DEBORAH IMBERKeller Williams Realty Jersey Shore-Ocean City
The advertised rate of $7,504/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of October 10, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Welcome to 133 Central, a beautifully maintained first-floor duplex located in a quiet North End neighborhood. This 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home offers a clean, comfortable layout ideal for a full summer season at the shore. The updated kitchen features granite countertops, modern finishes, and plenty of cabinet space, opening seamlessly into a dedicated dining room perfect for hosting family
Ava MummanGOLDCOAST SOTHEBY'S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
The advertised rate of $6,477/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of October 15, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Welcome to 133 Central, a beautifully maintained first-floor duplex located in a quiet North End neighborhood. This 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home offers a clean, comfortable layout ideal for a full summer season at the shore. The updated kitchen features granite countertops, modern finishes, and plenty of cabinet space, opening seamlessly into a dedicated dining room perfect for hosting family
Ava MummanGOLDCOAST SOTHEBY'S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
The advertised rate of $22,363/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 14, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it
Experience bayfront living at its best in this stunning WATERFRONT summer rental at Harbor House, located in the north end of Ocean City. This second-floor end unit offers spectacular bay views and incredible sunsets. The property features 1BR/1BA, a full kitchen, washer/dryer and excellent amenities; including fishing right at your doorstep, a relaxing pool, and a bayfront sundeck and barbecue
DEBORAH IMBERKeller Williams Realty Jersey Shore-Ocean City
The advertised rate of $10,774/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of April 10, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
READY FOR SUMMER 2026? Don’t miss this rare chance to lease a premier boardwalk condo in Ocean City. Offering coastal living at its finest—complete with balconies, ocean breeze, top-tier amenities, and the iconic beachside lifestyle. Ideal for those ready to embrace a seaside retreat without compromise. 1 car parking spot, beach storage, community room, gym with sauna & game room included.
Michael MarottaKeller Williams Realty - Wildwood Crest
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