Atlantic City, NJ Utility & Living Guide

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Atlantic City, NJ Utility & Living Guide

Atlantic City, sometimes referred to by its initials A.C., is a seaside resort city in Atlantic County, in the U.S. state of New Jersey.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$305/mo
1BR Rent$1200/mo
Sales Tax7.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score6/10
Median Home$320,000
📷 Live Cameras — Atlantic City
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🌤️ Live Weather — Atlantic City
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🚨 City In The News
The recent nasty storms and fierce winds that have knocked out power to thousands of homes and businesses across New Jersey are a stark reminder of the importance of reliable infrastructure for anyone considering relocating to Atlantic City. As the city continues to attract new residents and businesses, its ability to withstand and respond to severe weather events will be crucial in maintaining its quality of life. While Atlantic City offers an attractive cost of living and a range of affordable housing options, potential relocators should also consider the city's resilience and preparedness for extreme weather conditions. The impact of power outages on daily life, from disrupted work and school schedules to food spoilage and communication blackouts, can be significant. As the city's utilities, including Atlantic City Electric, work to restore power and upgrade their infrastructure, it's essential for those thinking of making Atlantic City their home to weigh these factors into their decision. Despite the challenges posed by severe weather, Atlantic City's unique blend of natural beauty, economic opportunities, and community spirit make it a city worth watching as it continues to evolve and grow.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Atlantic City
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

Atlantic City Electric
🔥 Gas

$50/mo

South Jersey Gas
💧 Water

$45/mo

Atlantic City Municipal Utilities Authority
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

Atlantic City Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead$305/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1200/mo
2 Bedrooms$1600/mo
3 Bedrooms$2100/mo
Median Home Price$320,000
Property Tax Rate1.2%
Avg Childcare/mo$1000

The housing market in Atlantic City is relatively affordable compared to nearby coastal cities, with a mix of historic homes and modern condos. Demand is steady, but some areas are still recovering from past economic downturns.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1000

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax7.5%
Property Tax Rate1.2%
<p>State 6.625% + County 0% + City 0.875%</p>

New Jersey has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 1.4% to 10.75% depending on income level.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
6/10
Safety Index

50

Higher = safer
School Rating

6.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1000/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
-2% (declining)
Political Climate
Blue (strong Democratic lean)
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in tourism, gaming, and hospitality
Top Local Concerns
Economic diversification, public safety, affordable housing
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited but stroller-friendly on boardwalks and in tourist areas. Jitneys (small buses) are common but may not always accommodate strollers easily.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Steel Pier Amusement Park
  • 🎯
    Atlantic City Aquarium
  • 🎯
    Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Best Neighborhoods for Families

Chelsea and Lower Chelsea are popular for families due to quieter streets and proximity to schools. Ventnor City, just south of Atlantic City, is also a family-friendly option with better-rated schools.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Atlantic City based on your household profile.

📰 Live Local News

Short-term rental regulations are strict, and parking can be challenging in tourist-heavy areas. Beach tags are required for beach access during summer months.

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📊 Atlantic City — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

💰 Median Household Income
$29,773
👤 Median Age
37.6
🏠 Homeownership Rate
27.9%
🔑 Renter Rate
72.1%
📉 Poverty Rate
37.0%
💼 Unemployment Rate
13.8%
📡 Internet Access
74.1%
🎓 College Educated
16.4%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Electricity costs peak in summer due to air conditioning demand, while gas bills rise in winter for heating. Water usage also increases slightly in summer for landscaping.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: Atlantic City (08401) has a property tax millage rate of 1.2%. No local surtaxes specific to Atlantic City county.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

7/10 with explanation: Boardwalks and main tourist areas are stroller-friendly, but some sidewalks in residential areas need repair. Limited elevator access in older buildings.

📍 Atlantic City City Stories

Atlantic City, New Jersey — N.J. live power-outage tracker: Nasty storms, fierce winds k

The recent nasty storms and fierce winds that have knocked out power to thousands of homes and businesses...

Read more →
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