7 Top-Ranked Towns in New Jersey for Retirees

New Jersey, a scenic state in the Mid-Atlantic United States, is a haven for tourism. Home to plenty of beaches along the Atlantic Ocean and various coastal entertainment, there is lots to explore. Along with its popularity with tourists, New Jersey is also an ideal location for retirees. Some of the state’s small towns boast an array of benefits, from excellent public transportation to ample recreational activities that are perfect for retirement. Moreover, they are astray from urban hustle and bustle, providing seniors with a relaxing environment to enjoy their golden years.

Fanwood

Fanwood is a lovely borough of 7,750 located a short drive from New York City. To this end, retirees who want to escape urban living while still remaining connected prefer this destination. Most of the town is residential, creating a tight-knit community where simple activities thrive. People here tend to spend their free time in parks such as Forest Road Park and Fanwood Nature Center. They are perfect for a relaxing day out with tons of walking trails, flora, fauna, and picnic areas. In addition to the outdoors, Fanwood has tons of history, as evidenced by the extensive Fanwood Park Historic District. Here, seniors can spend their time strolling through, touring, and appreciating over 50 rustic buildings, like the 1839 Fanwood Station.

Thanks to its location near New York City, Fanwood has no shortage of world-class amenities and services. The nearby Muhlenberg Regional Medical Center is within a 10-minute drive, offering excellent healthcare facilities and friendly staff. Similarly, the town is well connected, with railway, bus, road, and air connectivity, making travel accessible for people of all ages. The only drawback of the location is that Fanwood is quite expensive, and the average house costs $588,000, which is $187,000 more than the state average. Thankfully, retirement facilities like The Chelsea offer affordable independent and assisted living options.

Bridgeton

Bridgeton, located in Cumberland County, seamlessly blends urban living with natural landscapes. Every paved street in the town provides access to the river, parks, or outdoor spots, ideal for various enjoyable activities. As a result, retirees have the flexibility to choose their daily pursuits. For instance, food enthusiasts often visit places like Century Bakery for its tasty bread or the Marlboro Farm Market for fresh produce. Those looking to stay active in their later years prefer outdoor destinations such as Cohanzick Zoo and Piney Point Picnic Area. The zoo, the oldest in New Jersey, features over 100 animals, including mountain lions, Bengal tigers, and an Emu. Piney Point offers scenic picnic spots along Sunset Lake, making it a perfect outdoor getaway.

Along with the ample activities in Bridgeton, the town also has benefits catering to retirees. In terms of healthcare, Multiple health centers operate in town, such as the Inspira Health Center Bridgeton and South Jersey Healthcare. They offer advanced services like dialysis and speech therapy, so residents can rest assured for their health. Moreover, people retiring in Bridgeton can buy their dream home, as the town has an affordable median housing value of $130,800, far below the state average of $401,400. While there aren’t many people above 65 in town, those who prefer the solace of staying at home might find this town suitable.

Surf City

Surf City, located along the Jersey Shore in Ocean County, provides scenic Atlantic Ocean views for both residents and visitors. Retirees can enjoy numerous coastal activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and surfing along Long Beach Island's expansive shoreline. The ocean plays a central role in local culture, reflected in its cuisine, music, and heritage. Notable spots like Baked on the Beach and Surfside Coffee House serve popular waterside dishes, including seafood and refreshing cold brews.

One of Surf City’s key attractions for seniors is its high median age of 63, much higher than the state average. To this end, plenty of like-minded people are in town, promoting a strong social environment. While amenities are minimal on the island, the Stafford Township is a short drive away with everything a retiree requires. Whether this is healthcare facilities at the HMH Southern Ocean Medical Center or groceries from Costco Wholesale, there is no shortage of convenience near Surf City.

Millville

Millville, a vibrant center of art and culture in Cumberland County, should be a top choice for retirees. With a population of 27,500, the city offers lively streets filled with natural beauty, art galleries, and friendly residents. Nature lovers can spend their days exploring the Maurice River Bluffs Nature Preserve, which features sparkling waters and dense forests. Retirees can enjoy hiking on various trails to stay active while appreciating New Jersey’s scenery. For a taste of local culture, the Glasstown Arts District is ideal, with venues like the Levoy Theatre and Millville Historical Society providing constant entertainment. Conclude your day with a drink at the lively Old Oar House Irish Pub, ensuring there's never a dull moment in Millville.

After all the fun, going back home in Millville is just as exciting, thanks to the town’s reasonable housing rates. An average home in town costs $185,400, far below the state median of $401,400. Thus, retirees can buy their dream home without breaking the bank. Hand in hand with the affordability, public transport is optimal, with NJ Transit managing several bus routes so seniors have no trouble traveling around town.

Teaneck

Teaneck, a bustling township in Bergen County, offers retirees a lively reprieve to spend their golden years. It is perfect for people who want to stay connected with society while still being distanced from the woes of urban centers. A normal day in town is full of life, thanks to the four commercial districts in town, each lined with fun attractions. From relaxing reading at the Teaneck Public Library to hot bagels at Teaneck Road Hot Bagels, the possibilities are endless. Those who want a more silent experience can retreat from the paved streets to the Teaneck Creek Conservancy or Indian Pond. Seniors here love to fish, hike, and picnic as they take in the beautiful outdoor surroundings.

Thanks to its excellent location in Bergen County, Teaneck offers a wide range of amenities and facilities. The Holy Name Medical Center is a major healthcare provider offering emergency, routine, and specialized services. Numerous religious institutions and recreational parks also serve residents of all ages. If additional resources are needed, New York City is only a 25-minute drive away, providing access to world-class services. Additionally, Teaneck boasts a low poverty rate of 5% and a high median household income of $130,000, fostering a vibrant economic and social environment.

Glen Rock

15 minutes from Teaneck lies the borough of Glen Rock, another bustling community nestled close to society. Known for its high-income residents, Glen Rock is a dream destination for many retirees in New Jersey. According to most recent figures, the town has a median household income of $202,000, making it one of the wealthiest areas in the state. Moreover, a low poverty rate of 2.3%, a low crime rate, and abundant services make it a fantastic place for all kinds of people. The only drawback is that these benefits come at a price, and an average house in Glen Rock costs $786,000, nearly double the state average.

For those able to afford Glen Rock's price tag, the town provides numerous exciting entertainment options. Many retirees prefer visiting local cultural sites such as the Museum at the Station and the Glen Rock Gurudwara. These attractions offer insights into local history and Sikh culture, making them enjoyable for all visitors. Dining at local spots like Honey Day Cafe and The Glen Rock Inn also offers lively conversations and welcoming smiles. However, no visit to Glen Rock is complete without seeing the town's namesake—Glen Rock, a massive 570-ton boulder that inspired the town’s name.

Gloucester

Gloucester is a dream for golden agers looking for a cozy suburb to spend their retirement. The town is known for its laid-back demeanor, evident through the relaxing attractions abound. Most people here spend their evenings in parks like the Timber Creek Park and Johnson Park. With dog off-leash areas, walking trails, and quiet scenery, they are a treat for seniors. Or, one can take in the local Irish heritage through tons of cultural activities. The most popular of these is drinking, and bars like Tavern on the Edge and The Highland Tavern cater to all alcohol needs. Add on the wonderful bar conversations for a place that keeps all retirees happy.

For retirees considering Gloucester, the town offers several benefits making it an ideal choice. Housing prices are reasonable, with an average home costing around $166,000, significantly lower than the state average of $400,000. This allows many to afford their dream home without depleting their savings. For singles, retirement communities like Cardinal Village provide assisted living with trained staff, ensuring a safe and engaging environment.

New Jersey, with its scenic coastline and vibrant culture, is an abode for retirees in America. Each of the state’s small towns has a unique charm to share, whether this is natural beauty, entertainment, or great amenities. Speaking of amenities, these towns are chock-full of retirement benefits such as affordable housing, public transport, and even a safe environment. With so much to see and do combined with the comfortable surroundings, these New Jersey towns are perfect for retirees looking to enjoy their golden years,