Atlantic County, NJ

Living in Margate City, NJ: The Complete Neighborhood Guide

Lucy the Elephant. Restaurant Row. Upscale Shore Living.

Last updated: September 2026

$650,000
Median Home Price
108 min
To Penn Station
5,310
Population
1885
Founded
6.4%
YoY Appreciation

Why Margate City, NJ?

Margate City is Downbeach's upscale barrier island anchored by Lucy the Elephant — a six-story National Historic Landmark built in 1882, recently restored for $2.5 million, the oldest surviving roadside tourist attraction in America. Marven Gardens (yes, the Monopoly board) features fountain-lined boulevards. Steve and Cookie's By the Bay, Ventura's Greenhouse, Tomatoes, Drift Seafood, and Maynard's Cafe (live music patio) serve the dining scene. 500 Days of Summer screenwriter Scott Neustadter is from here. At $650K, upscale Downbeach living between AC's energy and Longport's mansions.

Margate City Real Estate Market in 2026

Margate homes sell in 35 days at a $650K median. Beachfront $1M to $3M. Year round community.

$650,000
Median Price
$380/sqft
Price Per Sq Ft
35 days
Avg Days on Market
+6.4%
Year Over Year

Best Neighborhoods in Margate City

2 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range

Lucy Area

$500,000 to $1,500,000

Near the famous landmark. Beach access.

Best for: Beach lifestyle

Restaurant Row

$500,000 to $900,000

Near Ventnor Avenue dining.

Best for: Foodies

Commuting from Margate City to NYC

108
Minutes to Penn Station
Drive to AC Expressway
Transfer required
Peak frequency: 3 to 4 trains per hour
Also nearby
Newark Liberty Airport: 10 min drive
NJ Turnpike, I-78, Routes 1 and 9
7 NJ Transit bus routes

Source: NJ Transit schedules, June 2026. Peak hour commute times.

Walkability and Livability in Margate City

How easy is it to live car-free or car-light in Margate City?

55
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
108 min
NYC Commute
1.12%
Property Tax Rate
$5,890/year avg
5.8%
Hispanic/Latino
5.4% foreign-born

Margate City vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison

City Median Price Tax Rate Annual Tax NYC Commute
Margate $650,000 1.12% $5,890 108 min
Longport $1,200,000 0.89% $7,567 110 min
Ventnor $380,000 1.34% $4,234 108 min

Where to Eat in Margate City

Ventnor Avenue

Restaurant Row with upscale dining. Steve and Cookie's, Tomatoes (fine dining), and seasonal restaurants.

Parks and Recreation in Margate City

Lucy the Elephant

National Historic Landmark. 6-story elephant-shaped building from 1881. Tours available.

Margate Beach

Wide beaches with lifeguard protection.

New Development and Growth in Margate City

History of Margate City, NJ

Incorporated in 1885.

Lucy the Elephant was built in 1881 by James V. Lafferty as a real estate promotion. She is a National Historic Landmark.

Margate has been an upscale beach community for over a century.

Safety in Margate City

Margate is very safe.

Notable Residents

Scott Neustadter (born 1977) — screenwriter of 500 Days of Summer and The Fault in Our Stars Jessica Savitch (1947 to 1983) — pioneering television news broadcaster for NBC Red Klotz (1920 to 2014) — NBA point guard who founded the Washington Generals, the Harlem Globetrotters perennial opponents

Annual Events and Festivals

Margate Beach events Lucy the Elephant tours (National Historic Landmark)

Frequently Asked Questions About Margate City, NJ

What is the median home price in Margate City, NJ?

The median home price is $650,000 as of 2026, with 6.4% year-over-year appreciation. Average $380/sqft, selling in 35 days.

How long is the commute from Margate City to NYC?

108 minutes via NJ Transit from on the Drive to AC Expressway. Transfer required.

What are property taxes in Margate City, NJ?

Tax rate is 1.12%. Average homeowner pays $5,890/year. At the median price of $650,000, expect about $7,280/year.

What are the best neighborhoods in Margate City?

Lucy Area ($500,000 to $1,500,000). Restaurant Row ($500,000 to $900,000). See the full guide above for all 2 neighborhoods.

Is Margate City safe?

Margate is very safe.

How walkable is Margate City, NJ?

Walk Score of 55, rated "Somewhat Walkable." Median income $82,000, median age 52.4. 15% renter-occupied.

Ready to Find Your Home in Margate City?

Talk to a Premier Homes agent who knows Margate City inside and out. We have been serving this community for over 30 years.

Explore Nearby Communities

Margate $650,000 108 min Longport $1,200,000 110 min Ventnor $380,000 108 min