Monmouth County, N.J., is quickly establishing itself as a prime destination for luxury real estate, fueled by new residential developments, such as the highly anticipated Netflix Fort Monmouth project, and growing demand for turnkey living along the shore. Within this thriving market there has been a particularly strong interest from empty nesters, who are emerging as one of the county’s most prominent buyer profiles.
This observation of recent shifts in demographic in the Tri-state area is primarily inclusive of empty nesters looking to downsize to avoid the hassles of large single-family homes, ditching square footage to prioritize their lifestyle. Based on regional builder and MLS trends, 40% to 50% of new construction buyers in Monmouth County are aged 55-plus, with elevator townhomes and resort-style condos being the most in-demand products. Zillow and Builder studies confirm that buyers 55-plus prioritize lock-and-leave convenience, access to lifestyle amenities, proximity to family, easy commute, healthcare, community, security and long-term value investment.
Instead of maintaining spacious suburban homes, buyers are seeking luxury developments that emulate resort-style living on waterfront locations, which has become a massive draw for this demographic.
Empty nesters represent the strongest buyer profile in Monmouth County. More specifically, they are migrating from areas such as North Jersey (Bergen, Essex, Union, and Hudson County) and New York City classifying them as key feeder markets.
Additionally, Monmouth and Middlesex’s residents themselves have been trading their suburban homes for new construction condos and an influx of out-of-state buyers coming from Staten Island, Brooklyn, Pennsylvania and Connecticut have been seeking seasonal or retirement living.
With 136 active and recent listings across Long Branch, Asbury Park, Sea Bright, and Monmouth Beach, the average unit spans nearly 2,000 square feet and trades around $1,058 per square foot. These turnkey, low-maintenance residences — averaging $1.98 million — offer the lock-and-leave lifestyle many downsizers crave. Long Branch and Asbury Park lead the activity, particularly in newer oceanfront developments like The Atlantic Club, South Beach and 1101 Ocean, where ocean-view homes command premiums of up to 30%. Over the past year, most sales have closed between $1.1 million and $2 million, underscoring that well-heeled retirees and lifestyle-focused buyers continue to fuel demand for modern coastal living in Monmouth County.
We’re seeing two clear trends right now — luxury projects like The Atlantic Club Residences are setting record prices along the coast, attracting high-end and second-home buyers. Meanwhile, more affordable and mid-market new builds remain limited, largely due to land and approval challenges. National builders continue to drive volume and efficiency in the suburbs, but boutique local developers still lead when it comes to design and coastal lifestyle appeal. Overall, new construction in Monmouth County remains strong — with luxury moving the fastest.
One standout property catering to the needs of this market is The Atlantic Club Residences, providing access to oceanfront residences, deeded parking/storage, lock-and-leave convenience, concierge services and more than 75,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities designed for year-round, resort-style living.
Located just about an hour from New York City in Long Branch, N.J., the Monmouth County community has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a premier coastal oasis. The Atlantic Club Residences sits on the last remaining oceanfront plot in the area, offering buyers a rare opportunity for beach access paired with Manhattan-level amenities, custom-curated art installations and a sophisticated design. Neighboring the beach and surrounded by a variety of local businesses and popular areas such as Pier Village and the boardwalk, this development is ideal for empty nesters.
“Empty nesters today aren’t just looking for a new home — they’re seeking a lifestyle. We’ve created a private, elegant country club atmosphere on the ocean where residents can enjoy all the experiences they wished for in their earlier years, without the upkeep. There’s no need to worry about roof repairs, snow removal, landscaping, or other home maintenance,” said The Atlantic Club Residences developer Roy Stillman. “It’s a true resort environment — with every amenity at your doorstep, attentive service and the comfort of knowing everything is taken care of. Add to that the ocean air, the proximity to loved ones, friends and familiar communities, and it becomes a very special opportunity — a place where life simply becomes easier and more fulfilling.”
Amenities to choose include a yoga room, pet spa, fitness centers, a pool, lounges, concierge services, wellness amenities, umbrella and chair beach services and security. Walkable to the beach, dining and retail options, and with easy access to NJ Transit, Seastreak Ferry and Garden State Parkway exit 105, The Atlantic Club Residences sit at a pillar of convenience offering ease and accessibility for all lifestyles.
Buyers are especially drawn to amenitized residences for its sanctuary-like atmosphere, refined design and convenience. It offers a peaceful coastal experience close to transportation, blending beauty and sophistication. Unlike some of the region’s livelier beach towns, Long Branch presents a more serene, country club-style environment, one that resonates strongly with today’s luxury buyer.
