New Jersey Ranks 6th-Least Affordable for Retirees in 2026 as Rent Hits $1,554
Updated
Updated · Asbury Park Press · Sep 7
New Jersey Ranks 6th-Least Affordable for Retirees in 2026 as Rent Hits $1,554
2 articles · Updated · Asbury Park Press · Sep 7
Summary
New Jersey placed sixth among the least affordable U.S. states for retirees in 2026, reflecting high living costs that can strain fixed retirement incomes.
Housing drove much of the ranking: a one-bedroom apartment costs a median $1,554 a month, the median home sale price is $527,000, and the state's property tax rate is 1.88%.
Other routine expenses also remain elevated, with groceries at $226 a month, regular gas at $4.52 a gallon and Medicare Advantage premiums at $25.23 a month.
Retirement Living said some retirees are responding by downsizing or moving to cheaper states; West Virginia ranked most affordable, while California was least affordable for a second straight year.