NEW JERSEY — Families planning a Jersey Shore vacation in 2026 should prepare for higher costs, as new research from Affinity Federal Credit Union finds the average price of a shore getaway has increased 11.29% year-over-year.
The increase reverses the 5% price drop beachgoers saw during the 2025 summer season and adds new pressure for households already concerned about inflation, housing costs, and broader economic uncertainty.
According to Affinity Federal Credit Union, the sharpest increase is in lodging and rentals, with week-long vacation rentals rising 53% year-over-year in popular shore destinations such as Asbury Park, Point Pleasant, and Seaside Heights. Property owners are reportedly raising prices to keep pace with higher property values, increased taxes, and rising insurance costs.
Travel costs also climbed significantly, rising 31.4% year-over-year. Higher gas prices are driving much of that increase, making the traditional family drive to the shore more expensive for residents and visitors alike.
Other core parts of the Jersey Shore experience also became more expensive. Food and drink costs rose 6.74%, meaning families may pay more for boardwalk meals, casual dining, and beach-town treats. Leisure activities, including mini-golf, aquarium admission, and sunset cruises, increased 5.23%. Beach services saw the smallest increase at 1.79%, covering items such as beach tags, sunblock, chair rentals, and umbrella rentals.
For families considering a move to New Jersey, the data highlights both the enduring appeal and rising cost of one of the state’s most iconic lifestyle advantages. Access to the Jersey Shore remains a major draw for relocating families, offering beach towns, boardwalks, recreation, dining, and summer traditions within driving distance of many New Jersey communities.
However, the latest pricing trends suggest families may need to budget more carefully for seasonal travel, especially if they plan annual shore vacations or extended summer stays.
The rising cost of Jersey Shore vacations also reflects broader economic pressures affecting New Jersey’s coastal communities. Shore businesses, rental owners, and tourism operators are facing increased operating costs, while consumers are becoming more selective about how they spend on travel and leisure.
Despite higher prices, the Jersey Shore remains one of New Jersey’s strongest quality-of-life assets. For many families, proximity to beaches, state parks, waterfront dining, boating, fishing, and family-friendly attractions continues to make New Jersey an attractive relocation destination.
Families moving to New Jersey may find savings by planning trips earlier, considering weekday stays, visiting less crowded shore towns, packing meals, or choosing day trips instead of week-long rentals. Communities farther from the coast may also offer more affordable housing while still providing reasonable access to shore destinations.
As summer 2026 approaches, Affinity Federal Credit Union’s findings make one thing clear: the Jersey Shore remains a treasured part of New Jersey life, but enjoying it now requires more financial planning than it did just one year ago.