New Jersey, known for high prices and proximity to NYC, claims three spots in the nation’s top 50 richest retirement towns.
According to a new GOBankingRates study analyzing wealth, livability, and retirement income across the country, Paramus, Tinton Falls, and Fort Lee stand out as especially popular destinations for affluent retirees who are seeking established communities with strong amenities, established neighborhoods, proximity, and more.
The study ranked cities with populations of at least 15,000 and a senior population of 25% or more, factoring in median household income, average retirement income, and livability metrics. The findings outline New Jersey’s position as a popular destination for wealthy retirees who look to remain in (or move to) the Northeast.
Paramus
Paramus ranks 12th among the richest retirement towns in the nation, with a median household income of $144,349 and a livability score of 82.
The senior population in the Bergen County community represents 26.2% of its total population. Retirees in Paramus receive an average retirement income of $42,814. Paramus maintains strong livability metrics—residents value infrastructure, proximity to New York City, and well-established neighborhoods.
Tinton Falls
Monmouth County’s Tinton Falls ranks 37th in the nation with a median household income of $117,308 and a livability score of 68.
25.1% of the town’s population are seniors. Retirees in Tinton Falls receive an average retirement income of $38,024, which is the lowest of the three. Despite this, Tinton Falls’ inclusion reflects its desirability as a coastal community, attracting many retirees who wish to live near the Shore.
Fort Lee
Fort Lee ranks 38th nationally with a median household income of $107,274 and the strongest livability score of the three New Jersey towns at 88.
The Hudson County municipality has a senior population of 25.1%. Retirees in Fort Lee receive an average retirement income of $43,953—the highest among the three. Fort Lee’s high livability score suggests its combination of walkability, access to amenities, healthcare facilities, and transportation. These factors make it an ideal destination for seniors seeking an urban-adjacent lifestyle.
The Richest Retirement Destinations in NJ
GOBankingRates conducted this study by analyzing retirement towns across the nation.
To qualify, cities needed a population of at least 15,000—25% of which needed to be 65 or older. The study ranked towns based on median household income (weighted at 1.0) and average retirement income for households receiving it (weighted at 0.5), factoring in cost of living and livability metrics.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.