Senior Citizens in New Jersey: Demographic Shifts and Regional Breakdown
As of the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau and state statistics, approximately 17% of New Jersey's total population is aged 65 or older, comprising some 1.5 million senior citizens. This is roughly in line with national trends, where the percentage of senior citizens has also been growing. As of the latest available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 1.6 million people in New Jersey are enrolled in Medicare (which includes individuals aged 65 and older, as well as some younger individuals with disabilities), accounting for about 18% of the state's total population.
How New Jersey’s Senior Population Has Changed Over Time
The percentage of senior citizens in New Jersey has grown considerably over the past few decades. According to historical data:
In 1990, only about 12% of the state’s population was 65 or older which increased to 17.5% by the 2020 Census, reflecting the aging of the baby boomer generation (those born between 1946 and 1964) as the key factor driving this demographic shift.
This increase in the senior population also has been impacted by 1) Longer Life Expectancy, now bout 80 years, aided by advances in healthcare and better living conditions;age life expectancy in New Jersey is now around 80 years, higher than the national average; 2) Baby Boomer Retirement: as the baby boomer generation began reaching retirement age starting in 2011, increasing burdens on health care and housing resources with many seniors on fixed incomes, there may be more pressure on public resources and less contribution to the state’s tax base. but opening up employment positions for younger workers and 3) Lower Birth Rates: As younger populations have fewer children, the proportion of elderly individuals naturally rises within the overall population. Counties with the Highest Numbers and Percentages of Senior Citizens New Jersey’s senior population is not evenly distributed across the state. Certain counties, particularly those with suburban and rural characteristics, have higher concentrations of older adults.
According to the most recent census data, the counties with the highest numbers and percentages of seniors are: 1. Ocean County
Percentage of Population 65+: 24%
Total Seniors: Over 145,000 Ocean County has one of the highest percentages of seniors in the state, particularly in communities like Toms River and Lakewood. The county’s popularity with retirees stems from its coastal location and the presence of numerous senior living communities such as Leisure Village and Holiday City.
2. Cape May County
Percentage of Population 65+: 26%
Total Seniors: Around 27,000 Cape May County, a major tourist destination, is home to a large retiree community. Its relatively small population gives it a higher percentage of seniors, as many are drawn to the area’s scenic beaches and relaxed lifestyle.
3. Atlantic County
Percentage of Population 65+: 19%
Total Seniors: Over 52,000 Atlantic County, which includes towns like Atlantic City and Egg Harbor, has a growing senior population. The county offers a blend of suburban and coastal living, which appeals to retirees.
4. Bergen County
Percentage of Population 65+: 17%
Total Seniors: Around 154,000 Bergen County, located in northern New Jersey near New York City, has a high number of seniors due to its large population. While the percentage of seniors is lower compared to Ocean County, the overall number is significant due to its population density.
5. Monmouth County
Percentage of Population 65+: 18%
Total Seniors: Over 122,000 Monmouth County’s senior population has grown in recent years as older adults seek out the area’s coastal communities and suburban lifestyle. Towns like Middletown and Freehold have large numbers of retirees.
Municipalities with the Highest Percentages of Seniors
Some municipalities in New Jersey have even higher concentrations of senior citizens, often due to the presence of retirement communities or senior-oriented developments. 1. Manchester Township (Ocean County)
Percentage of Population 65+: 50%
Manchester Township has one of the highest concentrations of seniors in New Jersey, largely due to the presence of retirement communities like Leisure Knoll, Renaissance at Manchester, and Crestwood Village.
2. Berkeley Township (Ocean County)
Percentage of Population 65+: 41% Berkeley Township, home to Holiday City and Silver Ridge senior communities, has a large percentage of elderly residents, making it one of the top destinations for retirees in New Jersey.
3. Long Beach Township (Ocean County)
Percentage of Population 65+: 33% Long Beach Township is a popular destination for retirees looking to live in a coastal environment. Its scenic beaches and quieter lifestyle attract a significant number of seniors.
4. Cape May City (Cape May County)
Percentage of Population 65+: 30% The city of Cape May is not just a popular vacation spot, but also home to a high percentage of senior residents who appreciate its historic charm and proximity to the ocean.
The rise in New Jersey’s senior population presents both challenges and opportunities.
Healthcare Demand: With more seniors in the state, the demand for healthcare services, particularly in areas such as geriatric care, home health services, and long-term care, is expected to increase significantly.
Housing: There has been a growing demand for age-restricted housing communities, assisted living, and nursing homes. Urban planners and developers will need to continue adapting to these needs.
Social Services: Counties and municipalities with high percentages of senior citizens will need to expand services related to transportation, nutrition, and recreational activities geared toward this demographic.
Economic Impact: A growing senior population also affects the state’s workforce and economy. With many seniors on fixed incomes, there may be more pressure on public resources and less contribution to the state’s tax base.
Retirement in New Jersey offers a variety of advantages and disadvantages for seniors considering making the state their home after leaving the workforce. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of retirement in New Jersey, along with some statistics and details on the state's programs and facilities available for seniors. Pros of Retirement in New Jersey
High Quality of Life: New Jersey is often ranked high in terms of quality of life, with its proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia. Retirees can enjoy cultural events, museums, theater, and entertainment without living directly in those urban areas. The state's scenic shorelines, parks, and nature reserves also offer retirees a peaceful setting.
Healthcare: New Jersey boasts excellent healthcare services, including top hospitals and medical centers, which is a crucial factor for retirees. The state's hospitals consistently rank high in national reviews, and the proximity to major metropolitan areas ensures access to the best specialists.
Government Programs & Benefits: New Jersey offers several programs designed to assist senior citizens, including property tax relief programs for seniors, such as the Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement Program), which helps qualifying homeowners 65 and older freeze their property tax bills. There is also a State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program (SPAP), which helps seniors with the cost of prescription medications. New Jersey has a Medicaid program for eligible seniors, offering medical coverage to low-income elderly individuals.
Vibrant Senior Communities: New Jersey has numerous adult communities that cater to retirees. These include active adult communities with amenities like golf courses, fitness centers, and social activities designed to promote an active and engaged lifestyle for seniors.
Mild Climate: While winters can be cold, New Jersey generally has a milder climate compared to many northern states, which can be appealing for seniors who prefer more moderate weather.
Public Transportation: For retirees who no longer drive, New Jersey has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains that can easily connect you to nearby urban centers and other areas of interest.
Cons of Retirement in New Jersey
High Cost of Living: One of the most significant drawbacks of retiring in New Jersey is the high cost of living, including housing, taxes, and everyday expenses. Property taxes in New Jersey are among the highest in the nation, which can be a challenge for seniors on a fixed income, despite some tax relief programs. New Jersey’s sales tax rate is also relatively high compared to other states, and while the state offers some tax exemptions for retirement income (such as pensions), retirees might still face higher overall living costs.
Property Taxes: As mentioned, property taxes are a big concern in New Jersey. Even with relief programs, many seniors find that their property taxes can significantly impact their ability to live comfortably on a fixed income. In fact, New Jersey has the highest average property taxes in the United States.
Traffic and Congestion: While New Jersey has many benefits in terms of location, its proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia also leads to significant traffic congestion. This can be especially stressful for retirees who are used to a quieter lifestyle or who need to commute.
Weather: While the climate can be mild compared to other northern states, winters can still be harsh with snowstorms and ice, which could be problematic for seniors who have mobility issues or prefer warmer weather.
Statistics on Senior Citizens in New Jersey
Senior Population: According to recent data, approximately 15% of New Jersey’s population is 65 years or older, making it one of the states with a higher proportion of senior citizens. This is slightly higher than the national average of about 16.8% of people over 65 in the U.S. Growth of Senior Population: The senior population in New Jersey is expected to grow significantly in the coming decades, with projections showing that the number of residents 65+ could increase by nearly 40% by 2030.
Senior Living Communities
Adult Communities: New Jersey is known for having a substantial number of active adult communities. These communities cater to people 55+ and often offer a variety of activities, recreational opportunities, and amenities. There are hundreds of such communities spread throughout the state, from those near the coast to those in more rural areas.
Nursing Homes: New Jersey has numerous nursing homes and assisted living facilities across the state. The state is committed to providing care to those in need, with over 300 skilled nursing facilities available for seniors. These facilities offer long-term care for those who need more medical attention than can be provided in an independent living setting.
Nursing Homes
New Jersey has approximately 320 nursing homes in operation in 2024. The quality of care offered in nursing homes became a focus during the COVID-19 crisis, particularly when more than 9,000 nursing home residents died during the pandemic, some one-quarter of all COVID-19-related deaths in New Jersey. Two state-run veterans’ homes in Paramus and Menlo Park were cited in subsequent investigations to have inadequate care which contributed to the deaths of about 200 residents, such as through deficient infection control practices and medical care.
In 2020, a new state law was enacted which requires one certified nursing assistant for every eight residents during the day shift; one for every 10 residents in the evening and one for 14 overnight. In the evening or overnight, certified nursing assistants can be replaced by a registered nurse or licensed professional nurse — higher-paying jobs that require far more training — if that employee commits to serve as a CNA for that shift while still being paid as an RN or LPN for that shift.
As the law was enforced with fines of up to $1,000 per day, however, nursing home advocates argued that the staffing standards were difficult if not impossible to meet given the shortage of qualified applicants in the workforce.
Provides information and services related to healthcare, housing, nutrition, and senior care assistance. It also offers access to programs like the Aging and Disability Resource Connection and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), sponsors NJSave online application to help low-income older adults and individuals with disabilities save money on Medicare premiums, prescription costs, and other living expenses.
Offers prescription drug assistance to income-eligible New Jersey residents aged 65 and over, co-payment rates in 2024 $5 for each PAAD covered generic drug prescription and $7 for each PAAD covered brand name drug prescription. PAAD beneficiaries may pay less for generic drugs if their Medicare prescription drug plan charges them less than the $5 PAAD co-payment for generics.
New Jersey Division of Aging Services (DoAS)
The New Jersey Division of Aging Services (DoAS) is the state’s primary agency focused on senior care. It offers a wide variety of services, including:
Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): This provides seniors and caregivers with information on local services, including home care, transportation, and meal services.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): SHIP counselors assist seniors in understanding Medicare, Medicaid, and supplemental health insurance plans. This free service helps navigate complex healthcare systems and options.
Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD): This program provides financial assistance for prescription medications to qualified New Jersey seniors.
2. Medicaid and Medicare Medicaid and Medicare play a critical role in providing healthcare support for seniors.
Medicaid: Provides health coverage for low-income seniors, helping with the cost of medical care, prescriptions, and long-term care services.
Medicare: A federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, covering hospital stays, medical care, and certain preventive services.
3. Meals on Wheels Meals on Wheels is a federally funded program that offers home-delivered meals to seniors who are homebound and unable to prepare their own meals. In New Jersey, various local chapters provide nutritious meals, check-ins, and social interaction.
4. Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) This program provides low-income seniors with coupons that can be used to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey at approved farmers' markets. It aims to improve the nutritional intake of seniors and support local agriculture.
5. Property Tax Reimbursement Program (Senior Freeze) The Property Tax Reimbursement Program, also known as the Senior Freeze, reimburses eligible seniors for property tax increases on their homes. This financial relief allows seniors to maintain affordable living conditions even as property taxes rise.
Private Resources for Seniors in New Jersey In addition to the extensive public programs available to seniors in New Jersey, there are also a variety of private resources that provide vital services. These range from non-profits to private businesses that cater to the needs of aging residents.
1. Assisted Living and Independent Living Communities Private senior living communities, including assisted living facilities and independent living complexes, offer a variety of care levels depending on the senior’s needs. Some popular options in New Jersey include:
Brandywine Living: Offers assisted living with on-site healthcare, activities, and specialized memory care services.
Brightview Senior Living: Provides independent and assisted living, as well as dementia care services.
These communities often provide tailored services such as personal care, meal plans, social activities, and transportation. 2. Private In-Home Care Agencies Many seniors prefer to remain in their homes, and private in-home care agencies offer services to help them do so safely and comfortably. Agencies such as Visiting Angels and Home Instead provide personal care, companionship, housekeeping, and medical assistance. These services are typically paid for privately or through long-term care insurance policies. 3. Nonprofit Organizations Numerous nonprofit organizations support seniors in New Jersey by offering various services at little or no cost. These organizations provide everything from healthcare assistance to social engagement activities.
AARP New Jersey: AARP advocates for senior rights and provides educational resources, including information on health, wellness, and financial planning.
The Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest New Jersey: Provides comprehensive services to seniors, including homecare, transportation, and assistance with managing chronic health conditions.
4. Private Transportation Services
While public transportation options exist, private transportation services often provide more flexibility and personalized care. Companies like Uber Health or Lyft can be utilized for non-emergency medical appointments, grocery trips, or social outings, ensuring seniors maintain their independence. 5. Elder Law Attorneys
Private elder law attorneys specialize in areas such as estate planning, wills, and navigating Medicaid. These attorneys help seniors and their families protect their assets and ensure their long-term care plans are legally sound.
Information and services related to healthcare, housing, nutrition, and senior care assistance. It also offers access to programs like the Aging and Disability Resource Connection and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), sponsors NJSave online application to help low-income older adults and individuals with disabilities save money on Medicare premiums, prescription costs, and other living expenses
Offers prescription drug assistance to income-eligible New Jersey residents aged 65 and over, co-payment rates in 2024 $5 for each PAAD covered generic drug prescription and $7 for each PAAD covered brand name drug prescription. PAAD beneficiaries may pay less for generic drugs if their Medicare prescription drug plan charges them less than the $5 PAAD co-payment for generics.
Offers prescription drug assistance to income-eligible New Jersey residents aged 65 and over, co-payment rates in 2024 $5 for each PAAD covered generic drug prescription and $7 for each PAAD covered brand name drug prescription. PAAD beneficiaries may pay less for generic drugs if their Medicare prescription drug plan charges them less than the $5 PAAD co-payment for generics.
US Department of Agriculture program provides eligible seniors with coupons to purchase locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs.through farmers' markets, roadside stands, and community supported agricultural programs.
Purpose: Offers resources for finding affordable housing, senior housing options, and rental assistance programs for low- to moderate-income senior citizens.
Reimburses eligible senior citizens and disabled persons up to 4150,000 in income for property tax or mobile home park site fee increases on their principal residence (main home).
Purpose: Provides resources, advocacy, and information on topics like healthcare, financial security, and senior services. AARP New Jersey also offers events and social engagement opportunities for seniors.
Purpose: A private in-home care agency offering personal care, companionship, and specialized senior services to help seniors age in place comfortably.
Purpose: A commercial site offering guides to senior living communities, independent and assisted living options, and memory care facilities across New Jersey.
Purpose: A free and confidential resource that connects seniors and caregivers to local social services, including housing assistance, transportation, healthcare, and financial aid.
Purpose: Offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care services across several locations in New Jersey.
These websites offer a wide range of support and information for senior citizens in New Jersey, making it easier to access the healthcare, housing, legal, and other resources needed to lead fulfilling lives.
Directories of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult communities in New Jersey: 1. New Jersey Department of Health – Nursing Home Compare
Official state website with directory of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities in New Jersey, including detailed inspection reports and facility ratings.
A federal government tool that allows users to compare nursing homes based on quality ratings, services offered, and patient satisfaction. This directory includes nursing homes in New Jersey.
A commercial site that offers a comprehensive directory of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, memory care, and independent living communities across New Jersey. It also provides personalized recommendations based on user needs.
Nationwide directory of nursing homes, assisted living, and independent living communities, including a detailed search option for New Jersey facilities.
Directory of 55+ active adult communities in New Jersey, includes information on age-restricted communities, amenities, and housing options for active seniors looking for independent living.
A directory of assisted living facilities, including nursing homes and senior living communities in New Jersey. The site offers guides and resources for choosing the right care.
High Cost of Living: One of the most significant drawbacks of retiring in New Jersey is the high cost of living, including housing, taxes, and everyday expenses. Property taxes in New Jersey are among the highest in the nation, which can be a challenge for seniors on a fixed income, despite some tax relief programs. New Jersey’s sales tax rate is also relatively high compared to other states, and while the state offers some tax exemptions for retirement income (such as pensions), retirees might still face higher overall living costs.
Property Taxes: New Jersey property taxes rank among the highest in the nation. Even with relief programs, many seniors find that their property taxes can significantly impact their ability to live comfortably on a fixed income.
Traffic and Congestion: While New Jersey has many benefits in terms of location, its proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia also leads to significant traffic congestion. This can be especially stressful for retirees who are used to a quieter lifestyle or who need to commute.
Weather: While the climate can be mild compared to other northern states, winters can still be harsh with snowstorms and ice, which could be problematic for seniors who have mobility issues or prefer warmer weather.