Atlantic County
Brigantine
A quiet barrier island retreat just minutes from AC
Town Profile
About Brigantine
Brigantine is a small barrier island city in Atlantic County, New Jersey, situated just north of Atlantic City and connected to it by a short causeway. While its neighbor is known for casinos, boardwalks, and entertainment, Brigantine has carved out a very different identity — one built on quiet residential streets, sandy beaches, and a laid-back pace that attracts families, retirees, and anyone who prefers a more relaxed shore experience. It is a community where the ocean is the main attraction and life moves at the speed of the tide.
The island's history stretches back to colonial times, with roots going even further to the Lenni Lenape people who first inhabited the land. The name "Brigantine" is believed to originate from the brigantine sailing ships used by early settlers and pirates who navigated the coastal waters of southern New Jersey. The island developed a rich maritime heritage over the centuries and was incorporated as a borough in 1890 before becoming a city in 1924. Today, that history lives on in the island's character — a place shaped by the sea and the people who made their living along it.
Geographically, Brigantine is a narrow barrier island roughly two miles wide and five miles long, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and Brigantine Bay and the Back Bay to the west. The island is known for its natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle. The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge sits just to the north, offering miles of trails and some of the best birding on the East Coast. The Absecon Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in the country, stands at the island's southern end as both a historic landmark and a popular destination. Brigantine is also well regarded for surfing, kayaking, crabbing, and fishing — activities that are woven into the rhythm of daily life here.
There is no boardwalk in Brigantine and no casino — by design. The island's appeal lies in its beaches, its wildlife areas (including the protected North Beach wildlife refuge), and its small-town atmosphere. The real estate reflects that character, offering a mix of modest beach cottages, newer construction, and waterfront properties across a range of price points. Brigantine draws families looking for a shore home with easy access to Atlantic City's dining and entertainment, retirees seeking a quieter coastal lifestyle, and anyone who wants the best of the Jersey Shore without the crowds. It is one of Atlantic County's best-kept secrets — and residents like it that way.
Neighborhood Profile
Brigantine at a Glance
Population & Demographics
Brigantine is home to approximately 8,000 residents, with a population density of 1,180 people per square mile. The community has experienced a population change of -1.8% since the 2020 Census. The median age is 59, reflecting a mature, established barrier island community.
Est. Population
8,000
Change (since 2020)
-1.8%
Pop. Density
1,180 / mi²
Median Age
59
Gender
Data sourced from Realtors Property Resource using U.S. Census American Community Survey data. Last updated July 2026.
Market Data
Current market conditions in Brigantine show steady demand with a balanced inventory level. Homes are selling close to asking price with strong list-to-sale ratios and a median time on market of just 20 days.
Median Sold Price
$590,000
Months of Inventory
3.72
Sold to List Ratio
98.9%
Median Days on Market
20
List Price Trends
Data sourced from Realtors Property Resource using U.S. Census American Community Survey data. Last updated July 2026.
Housing
Median Home Value
$760,000
Home Value (12-Mo)
+4.2%
Median List Price
$742,000
Median Home Age
47 yrs
Occupancy Breakdown
Data sourced from Realtors Property Resource using U.S. Census American Community Survey data. Last updated July 2026.
Quality of Life
Income
Median Household Income
$88,906
Per Capita Income
$68,730
Commute
Average Travel Time to Work
25 min
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau and American Community Survey. Last updated July 2026.
Education & Schools
Highest Level of Education Attained (Population 25+)
Educational Climate Index
2.5 out of 5
This index helps identify areas with the best conditions for quality schools, based on U.S. Census Bureau Socioeconomic Status measures weighted toward educational achievement.
Schools
Brigantine is served by one public school for grades Pre-K through 8. For high school, students attend Atlantic City High School in the Atlantic City School District.
Brigantine Community School
Pre-K – 8th Grade · 380 Students · 7:1 Student-to-Teacher Ratio
GreatSchools Rating: 6 / 10
Atlantic City High School (Atlantic City School District)
Grades 9 – 12 · Brigantine students attend here for high school
Data sourced from Realtors Property Resource using U.S. Census American Community Survey data and Liveby. Last updated July 2026.
Beach Guide
Brigantine Beach Guide
Brigantine beaches require beach tags for access during the summer season. The Beach Fee Office is located at 265 42nd Street and is open year-round. Tags and parking permits can be purchased there or by calling (609) 264-7350 prompt #6. Brigantine beaches are now smoke-free.
For the latest beach conditions and information, visit the official Brigantine Beach website: brigantinebeach.org.
Beach Hours and Lifeguard Coverage
- Swimming is permitted at guarded beaches from mid-June to Labor Day, 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Swim only when and where lifeguards are present
- Guarded beaches begin on Memorial Day weekend at 15th Street South, 26th Street South, and 34th Street South (weekends only)
- Full lifeguard staffing begins the third week of June through Labor Day weekend
- Limited weekend service continues in September at 2nd Street North, 15th Street South, 26th Street South, and 34th Street South
Guarded Swimming Beaches
ADA Beach Access
ADA compliant beach mats are available at:
- 10th Street North
- Roosevelt Blvd
- 16th Street South
- 26th Street
- 34th Street
Accessible Beaches
Contact: Beach Patrol Headquarters — 17th Street and the beach — (609) 266-5233
Ramp Access to Beaches
Multiple ramp access locations from 9th Street North to 14th Street North
Wheelchair Beach Mats
Available at 10th Street North, 18th Street South, 26th Street South, 26th Street and the bay, and 38th Street South
Surf Chair Locations
Beach Patrol Headquarters, 17th Street Beach — Call for reservations: (609) 266-5233
Accessible Restrooms
16th Street and Roosevelt Blvd. beach lots
Accessible Parking
Roosevelt Blvd, 14th Street, 26th Street, 38th Street, Club Drive, East Brigantine Avenue along Seawall
More Information: brigantinebeach.org
Dogs on the Beach
Public Beaches (15th Street North to the southwestern tip)
Dogs permitted September 16 through May 14, must be leashed. Dogs NOT permitted May 15 through September 15.
Cooperative Zone (Sandy Lane to Bramble Drive)
Dogs NOT permitted March 15 through September 15.
Promenade (9th Street North to 15th Street North)
Dogs NOT permitted at any time.
Surfing
Surfing is permitted at:
- 12th Street North
- 10th Street South
- North of South End Jetty
- South of the Sandy Lane bathing area
Contact the Brigantine Beach Waveriders at (609) 266-SURF for surfing tournaments and youth clinics.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted at:
- North of 14th Street North (up to the State Park boundary)
- 45th Street to 47th Street
- 49th Street (area north of Seaside Road)
- South of Jetty (Absecon Inlet)
- Brigantine Bridge
Kayaking
Kayaking is permitted at:
- Adjacent to all lifeguard-protected beaches
- Absecon Inlet Beaches
- Area between Sandy Lane and Seaside Road lifeguard station
- 26th Street South, City Dock area
Sailboats
Licensed boats only. 6th Street North, 28th Street to 30th Street, and 40th Street.
Jet Skis
Permit required ($125/year, minimum $500,000 liability insurance). Permitted in the inlet side of the South Jetty as designated by posted signs.
Catamarans
Permit required ($150/year, proof of liability insurance). Launch area from Neptune Drive to Club Drive.
Kite Flying
Kite flying is permitted at 34th Street South to 38th Street South.
Boat Ramp
The boat ramp is located at 5th Street South and Bayshore Avenue. For up-to-date information on boat ramp closings, text your zip code (08203) to 888777 to sign up for the City's Alert System.
Beach Parking
Rules to Know
- Beaches are smoke-free
- Boats and trailers may not be parked on streets October 1 through May 1. From May 1 through September 30, boats/trailers may be parked on the street in front of the owner's property. No boat/trailer parking on Ocean Avenue at any time.
- Interference with, alteration, removal, or destruction of sand dunes, vegetation, snow fences, or protective barriers is prohibited
Beach Patrol
Beach Patrol Headquarters: 16th Street and Beach — (609) 266-5233
The Brigantine Beach Patrol covers approximately five miles of guarded beach and responds to calls on an additional six miles of unprotected beach.
Information sourced from the City of Brigantine and Brigantine Beach Patrol. Rules and hours may change — verify with the Beach Fee Office before your visit.
What's Happening
What's Happening in Brigantine
Brigantine's beach community hosts a mix of outdoor festivals, athletic events, and family-friendly activities across the seasons. Here's what's coming up.
Disney On Ice presents Spotlight Magic!
November 6–8, 2026 · Boardwalk Hall
Just across the bay, Disney On Ice brings beloved characters, music, and storytelling to the ice at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. A family favorite that kicks off the holiday season a short drive from Brigantine.
Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City
Boardwalk Hall EventsBrigantine Ugly Sweater Run & Family Frolic
Saturday, November 28, 2026
The annual Ugly Sweater Run & Family Frolic includes an Ugly Sweater 10K, 5K, Kids One Mile Fun Run, and a 1-Mile Walk for adults and kids. A festive, family-friendly race to kick off the holiday season on the island.
Brigantine, NJ
Race InfoBrigantine City Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 5, 2026 · Evening
The city's annual tree lighting brings the community together for caroling, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa to kick off the holiday season in Brigantine, traditionally in front of City Hall on West Brigantine Avenue.
Brigantine City Hall
Chamber EventsCommunity Presbyterian Church Christmas Bazaar
December 5–6, 2026
The Community Presbyterian Church of Brigantine hosts its annual holiday bazaar featuring handmade crafts, baked goods, and seasonal gifts. A warm neighborhood tradition for holiday shopping and supporting the local church community.
Brigantine, NJ
Brigantine EventsBrigantine Polar Bear Plunge
Friday, January 1, 2027 · 12 PM
Brave plungers kick off the new year with the annual Polar Bear Plunge into the chilly Atlantic off the 16th and 17th Street beaches, with a Veterans Salute around 11 AM followed by the costume contest and plunge at noon. Run with VFW Post 6964, this fundraiser supports the Fisher House Foundation.
Brigantine Beach
Plunge InfoEvent details sourced from the Brigantine Beach Chamber of Commerce, Visit Brigantine, and community calendars. Dates and availability may change; check brigantinebeach.org for the latest event calendar.
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