New Jersey is one of the most active markets for 55+ living in the country, with over 170 active adult communities spanning the state — from the Jersey Shore to the Philadelphia suburbs. Whether you're looking for affordable resale homes in Ocean County or resort-style amenities in Monmouth County, there's a community that fits. Here's what to know before you start looking.
Where55 lists 179 active adult communities across 83 cities in New Jersey. Below, we highlight some of the top-rated options and the key regions to consider.
Top Regions for 55+ Living in New Jersey
Ocean County (Toms River, Lakewood, Manchester Township)
The heart of NJ retirement living. Ocean County has the highest concentration of 55+ communities in the state. Toms River alone has 7+ communities including top-rated Greenbriar Woodlands and Lake Ridge. Prices range from $150K in older sections to $500K+ for premium homes. The coastal location means easy beach access with lower costs than the northern Shore towns.
See our full Toms River guide →
Monmouth County (Monroe Township, Manalapan)
Monroe Township is sometimes called the "retirement capital of New Jersey" with multiple large-scale communities. Monmouth County offers a good balance of suburban convenience, NYC commuter access via NJ Transit, and high-quality healthcare facilities. Home prices trend higher here — $350K–$700K is typical.
Southern New Jersey (Burlington, Gloucester Counties)
South Jersey communities near the Philadelphia metro area offer some of the best value in the state. Communities in Bordentown Township, Columbus, and Clarksboro provide modern amenities at lower price points than the Shore or Central NJ markets. Great for buyers coming from the Philadelphia area who want to stay close.
Top-Rated 55+ Communities in New Jersey
Four Seasons at Smithville
Located in Galloway, Atlantic County. A K. Hovnanian community with resort-level amenities including indoor and outdoor pools, tennis, bocce, and a grand clubhouse. Convenient to Atlantic City and the Shore.
Greenbriar Woodlands
A gated Toms River community on 404 acres with a private golf course and 20,000 sq ft clubhouse. One of the most established and popular active adult communities in New Jersey.
Price range: $200,000–$400,000
Princeton Windrows
Unique among NJ 55+ communities — located in Princeton with proximity to Princeton University's cultural offerings. A smaller, sophisticated community for buyers who prioritize academics, arts, and walkability.
Browse all 179 New Jersey 55+ communities →
What to Know About Retiring in New Jersey
- Property taxes: NJ has the highest property taxes in the country, but seniors 65+ get a $250 deduction plus a property tax freeze (PTRF program) once qualified.
- Healthcare: Excellent hospital systems statewide — Hackensack Meridian, RWJBarnabas, and AtlantiCare provide strong coverage across all major 55+ community regions.
- No sales tax on clothes or groceries: Groceries and clothing are exempt from NJ sales tax, a meaningful perk for retirees on fixed incomes.
- Climate: Four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid; winters are cold but manageable on the Shore. Many NJ retirees are "half-back" snowbirds who split time with Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many 55+ communities are in New Jersey?
New Jersey has over 170 active adult 55+ communities spread across 80+ cities. The highest concentrations are in Ocean County (Toms River, Lakewood, Manchester Township) and Monmouth County (Monroe Township, Manalapan). Southern New Jersey also has significant clusters in Burlington and Gloucester counties.
What is the average home price in a New Jersey 55+ community?
Home prices in NJ 55+ communities vary widely. Older resale communities like Holiday City and Crestwood Village offer homes from $150,000–$250,000. Mid-range communities like Greenbriar Woodlands and Lake Ridge in Toms River range from $250,000–$500,000. Premium communities like Four Seasons and K. Hovnanian developments can exceed $600,000. HOA fees range from $150 to $450/month depending on amenities.
Is New Jersey a good state for 55+ retirement living?
New Jersey offers strong advantages for retirement: excellent healthcare access, proximity to New York City and Philadelphia, four distinct seasons, and a high concentration of well-established 55+ communities. The main trade-off is higher property taxes compared to Sun Belt states, though seniors benefit from property tax deductions and freezes. Many retirees find the trade-off worthwhile for the quality of life, cultural amenities, and proximity to family in the Northeast.