The story of this market
The typical home in ZIP 08260 sells for about $604,500, or $437 per square foot.
Prices are up +18.58% from a year ago, so sellers still have some momentum. Homes take about 32 days to sell. HUD's fair market rent for a two-bedroom is $1,072 a month.
ZIP 08260 — Wildwood
The Wildwood housing market is currently experiencing a strong seller's market, characterized by rising median prices and high demand for coastal properties. The market is driven by its status as a premier vacation destination, with significant activity in the short-term rental sector. While inventory remains tight, the steady increase in sold prices reflects sustained interest from both investors and vacation home buyers.
This ZIP is ideal for investors seeking short-term rental income, vacation home buyers, and those who enjoy a vibrant, seasonal beach-town lifestyle.
Median prices moved up 18.6% year over year.
Homes spend a median of 32 days on market with 3.2 months of supply — a fast-moving market.
21% of listings have cut prices · homes sell at 99.7% of asking — demand is running ahead of supply.
no recorded foreclosure-ledger notices (0.0 per 10,000 residents) · unemployment 7.9% · poverty 9.3% — a stable, low-distress profile.
Researched annual trajectory for this ZIP, from published historical series
Solid: researched ten-year history · dotted: 1 / 3 / 5-year projection extended from the historical 8.7%/yr trend — a deterministic estimate, not a published forecast or guarantee.
Median annual property tax paid on this ZIP's residential parcels
Solid: researched ten-year history · dotted: 1 / 3 / 5-year projection extended from the historical 4.4%/yr trend — a deterministic estimate, not a published forecast or guarantee.
versus the prior ACS vintage
net influx — more people moved in than out
ZCTA 08260, Cape May County, NJ
Crime rates in Wildwood are generally higher than the national average, largely driven by seasonal tourism fluctuations and transient populations typical of a beach resort town.
Schools serving the area are part of the Wildwood Public School District, which provides a range of educational services for the local community.
The area faces significant coastal flood risks and wind exposure, necessitating mandatory flood insurance for many properties and influencing overall insurance premiums.
The local economy is heavily anchored by the tourism and hospitality sectors, with ongoing development focused on seasonal rental properties and boardwalk-related infrastructure.
Property taxes are assessed at the municipal and county levels in New Jersey, with rates influenced by local school district budgets and municipal service requirements.
Commuting from Wildwood primarily involves driving via the Garden State Parkway, as public transit options are limited and seasonal in nature.
The area is defined by its world-famous boardwalk, expansive public beaches, water parks, and proximity to various fishing and boating amenities.
The rental market is highly seasonal, with significant pressure during summer months and a high concentration of short-term vacation rentals.
The economy is dominated by tourism, hospitality, and retail services, with significant seasonal employment fluctuations.
Transportation is primarily car-dependent, with the Garden State Parkway serving as the main artery for regional access.
Development is largely focused on the renovation of existing hospitality assets and residential infill projects near the coast.
Parcels are subject to municipal, county, and school district taxes, with specific flood control district assessments applicable in coastal zones.
Property insurance premiums are high due to coastal hazard exposure, with many properties requiring specialized flood and wind coverage.
Data retrieved from Census Reporter and US Zip Codes database.
Public schools whose reported address is in this area (NCES). Not attendance boundaries — schools that serve residents may sit outside it. Check the district's address locator for assignment.
A historic 2.5-mile boardwalk featuring amusement piers, shops, and dining.
A major seaside amusement park complex with rides and water parks.
Extensive, free public beaches that serve as a primary regional attraction.
Key-figure check: no independent anchor retained yet — first-researched cycles establish the anchor baseline this pass.