Long Beach Island, NJ, has a history of stability in its real estate market and consistent home price appreciation to back it up. To help illustrate, in 2015, the average sales price was $918,922 with 546 sales. By 2025, these stats had climbed to $2,155,000 with 402 sales, reflecting a nearly 135% increase in sales prices over 10 years and almost 30% in just the past 3 years.

Even during challenging periods, such as the 2007-2009 housing crisis, LBI’s market proved resilient. While national home values dropped over 20% into turmoil, LBI saw only a short-lived 10% decline at its peak.

The island’s appeal is further strengthened by increasing property values, steady demand, and ongoing new construction, much of it originally driven by Super Storm Sandy recovery efforts and updated flood plain management rules. These developments not only enhance individual properties but add value across the island. The continued demand, combined with minimal foreclosures, short sales, and distressed sales, further reinforces LBI’s reputation as a stable and reliable investment.

As with any major purchase, timing and expertise are key. Working with an experienced agent like myself ensures you’re equipped to make informed decisions. While past trends don’t guarantee future outcomes, they provide valuable insight into potential gains and cash flow.

The most common investment properties on LBI are used for seasonal or year-round rentals, including single-family homes, multi-family units, condos, and mixed-use properties. Commercial properties, such as retail spaces, restaurants, and mixed-use buildings, also present strong investment opportunities due to the island’s thriving tourism industry and year-round community.

LBI’s rental market has seen significant growth over the past decade, with a sharp increase during the pandemic. Currently, the average weekly rate for a peak-season rental (June-August) is about $6,000—a 45-50% rise from 2018 to 2023. Despite these increases, rental demand remains robust, with inquiries growing year-over-year (excluding 2020-2021 due to travel restrictions).

Many investors leverage peak summer rental income for 10-12 weeks to offset mortgage payments, utilities, and taxes. Commercial property owners, meanwhile, benefit from LBI’s consistent foot traffic, which supports strong rental income and long-term value appreciation.

It is important, however, for commercial landlords to conduct due diligence when selecting tenants. A profitable and durable business is essential for success in a seasonal area like LBI, as not every business model thrives in this unique market.

Whether you’re considering residential or commercial investments, LBI offers a unique market with proven profitability. Let’s connect to explore the opportunities and determine if an LBI investment is right for you!

Clearly, coastal real estate is often more expensive than non-coastal real estate due largely to its scenic location and proximity to the ocean; overall leading to incessant demand. Undoubtedly, coastal real estate can also provide a higher return on investment due to this elevated demand and limited supply, especially on Long Beach Island. Additionally, shore properties are highly desirable for a multitude of reasons other than for financial goals. Living on or close to the water is a dream many people desire throughout their lifetime. Whether it be someone who loves to surf, swim, fish, boat, wake board, lay on the beach, paddle board, enjoy the outdoors, or a combo of all; LBI is the place. As a result of all of these factors, properties on island typically see much higher rates of appreciation than a property on the mainland. Long Beach Island, NJ is rated as one of the top locations on not only the Jersey shore, but the entire east coast with the prices and constant demand to show for it. Learn more about LBI by clicking here!

2016 Market
Average Price: $899,519
Median Price: $750,000
Sale to List: 94.6%
Total Sales: 614
New Listings: 1,290

2025 Market
Average Price: $2,156,000
Median Price: $1,800,000
Sale to List: 97.5%
Total Sales: 403
New Listings: 571

These numbers show just how much the Long Beach Island market has evolved over the past decade. With rising home values, fewer available properties, and homes selling closer to asking price, LBI continues to attract buyers who recognize its long term value and lifestyle appeal. This data includes all single family, multi family, and land sales. When looking only at fee simple properties, which make up most of the market, the gap between these years is even more significant.