Traveling to the Jersey Shore this summer? Be ready to shell out a lot of clams.
The Shore has a lot to offer as a vacation destination, but, whether you are a local or a tourist, it’s going to cost you — and not just a little.
According to research from Affinity Federal Credit Union, a vacation to the Jersey Shore will cost families at least 16.6% more than last year.
Affinity, the largest credit union in New Jersey, said that even the costs of non-experience-based items such as beach chairs and umbrellas has gone up. Based on its year-to-year comparison, Affinity found double-digit increases in all four tourism-related categories for 2022, including:
- Travel, including gas and parking: up 31.4%;
- Beach services, including beach tags, chair and umbrella rentals: up 18%;
- Food and drink, including coffee, taffy and pizza: up 10.5%;
- Leisure activities, including mini golf, amusement park rides and parasailing: up 11.5%.
Affinity, based in Basking Ridge, said it conducted research in a May 2022 survey of New Jersey Shore town businesses and compared it against products and services surveyed in summer 2021.
Inflation, supply chain and staffing challenges were cited cost-drivers impacting vacationers’ wallets and overall financial wellbeing in 2022.
Jacqui Kearns, the chief brand, strategy and wellbeing officer of Affinity, said she hopes the higher prices do not keep people away from much-needed relaxation time.
“Nothing compares to summertime at the Jersey Shore,” she said. “Inflation shouldn’t totally derail families’ ability to enjoy vacation like they have in the past. Financial and emotional wellbeing go hand-in-hand.
“We are seeing higher prices impacting consumer behavior. However, we also expect consumers will continue to spend money on meaningful traditions and experiences with their families, while maintaining a closer awareness of their spending.”
