New Jersey provides plenty of reasons not to just visit but to set down roots. Browsing through the many counties in the state, there’s one that manages to stand out: Atlantic County. Sure, it has made its name for being the home of Atlantic City and its eye-popping resorts, hotels, casinos, and boardwalk, but the county is more than just this city.
Officially part of the Jersey Shore, Atlantic County was named after the ocean it borders. It was founded back in 1837 and has come a long way since then. Let’s take a closer look at why Atlantic County is a top place to live.
Living near the ocean is a dream that many people have, but for those in Atlantic County that dream is a reality. You’ll be able to enjoy strolls along the beach whenever you like, not just during peak tourist season. There is something soothing about standing at the edge of the surf, listening to the waves lap at your feet, and staring out into the vast expanse of water.
In terms of the beaches in Atlantic County, you’ve got a handful to choose from, including accessible beaches for those who need them. Some of the best beaches in the county include Brigantine, Atlantic City, Margate, Ventnor, Longport, and Malibu Beach Wildlife Management Area. Be sure to look into the details of each to learn about whether they are dog-friendly, good for surfing, if you can buy snacks and drinks, if there are lifeguards on duty, if the beach closes in the off-season, and so on.
Atlantic County has everything you need from businesses to shops, schools, and recreational activities. But for those who like to venture outside their place of residence, you’ve got tons of options.
Within a short drive are three major US cities: New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. Each is great for sightseeing but also offers business opportunities for the savvy-minded looking at expanding. Since Philadelphia is roughly an hour away, you can have a job in the city while making Atlantic County the place you live and relax in.
Not everyone enjoys city life, which is why Atlantic County ranks high again. You can just as easily make a drive out to nature, farmlands, and a more rural setting.
You can’t talk about the pros of living in Atlantic County without mentioning Atlantic City. Sure, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for many Atlantic City is the ultimate place to get away to.
Living in New Jersey gives you access to a limited-time offer code that you can use at any of the legal online casinos, but when the mood strikes and you want to visit a physical casino, you can easily do so too.
The casino lifestyle is a huge draw and helps to create a vibrant atmosphere in the city. Besides the casinos and large hotels, Atlantic City is also known for its beach and boardwalk. Just imagine being able to visit these any time you feel like it.
If you’re in your late 20s to early 40s and looking for an area that is ideal for couples and young families, look no further than Atlantic County. It has a median age of 39.9 years old and has 68,738 families living in the area. This makes for a welcoming environment for those just starting their family or looking for a starter home.
Parents are always mindful of the schools available to their kids, which is why Atlantic County also ranks highly. Six of its public schools are within the top 30 of the entire state, so you know you’ve got some good options here. Schools are what help your little ones get a good start for their future, so knowing it’s ranked highly can make or break your decision to move to the area.
And it’s not just grade school and high school; Atlantic County also has two colleges. Both Richard Stockton College of New Jersey Pomona & Atlantic City and Atlantic Cape Community College Mays Landing & Atlantic City have campuses here.
For those who don’t like feeling crowded, Atlantic County strikes a balance between big-city offerings and not feeling over-populated.
The population is around 274,549 people, with a population density of 494.1 people per square mile. To put this into perspective, New York City has a population density of 29,320.66 people per square mile! Granted, New York City is the country’s most populated city, but that still gives you a visual of what to expect. Even nearby Philadelphia has a much higher population density of 11,936.92 people per square mile.
If transportation options are a priority, you’ll appreciate that there are two airports in the county: the Atlantic City International Airport and the Pomona and Hammonton Municipal Airport. There is also the passenger railroad and the NJ rail transit system. For those traveling by car, you’ve got access to many major highways.
It can be extremely difficult to decide which state to settle down in, let alone which county. Atlantic County gives all the surrounding counties a run for their money thanks to its proximity to nature and big cities, the family-friendly atmosphere, numerous beaches, and recreational activities. No matter your age or demographic, you’re likely to find a neighborhood that appeals to you and could be the place you call home.
