Cape May County, NJ

Living in West Cape May, NJ: The Complete Neighborhood Guide

Lima Bean Festival. Backyard Farms. Quiet Cape May Living.

Last updated: September 2026

$550,000
Median Home Price
130 min
To Penn Station
1,024
Population
1884
Founded
5.8%
YoY Appreciation

Why West Cape May, NJ?

West Cape May is the residential borough adjacent to Cape May city — quieter, more affordable, with backyard farms and gardens that give it a village character distinct from its famous neighbor. The annual Lima Bean Festival is a beloved quirky tradition. Cape May schools. Under 1,100 residents. At $550K, Cape May living without the Cape May price tag.

West Cape May Real Estate Market in 2026

West Cape May homes sell in 42 days at a $550K median. Older cottages and colonials. More affordable than Cape May city. Limited inventory.

$550,000
Median Price
$350/sqft
Price Per Sq Ft
42 days
Avg Days on Market
+5.8%
Year Over Year

Best Neighborhoods in West Cape May

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

Borough Center

$475,000 to $700,000

Quiet residential streets. Backyard gardens. Walk to Cape May beaches and downtown.

Best for: Quiet Cape May living, gardeners

Commuting from West Cape May to NYC

130
Minutes to Penn Station
Drive to GSP
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 West Cape May

How easy is it to live car-free or car-light in West Cape May?

42
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
130 min
NYC Commute
1.23%
Property Tax Rate
$5,567/year avg
5.4%
Hispanic/Latino
4.8% foreign-born

West Cape May Schools and Ratings

West Cape May students attend Cape May City Elementary and Lower Cape May Regional HS.

Source: NCES CCD 2023 to 2024, NJDOE NJSLA 2024 to 2025

West Cape May Elementary School

West Cape May, NJ · Elementary · Grades PK-6
D
9.1:1 ratio 82 students Score: 67/100
View all West Cape May schools with full ratings →

West Cape May vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison

City Median Price Tax Rate Annual Tax NYC Commute
West Cape May $550,000 1.23% $5,567 130 min
Cape May $850,000 1.12% $7,234 130 min
Lower Twp $360,000 1.45% $4,234 128 min

Where to Eat in West Cape May

Local

Walk to Cape May city restaurants. Local farm stands.

Parks and Recreation in West Cape May

Wilbraham Park

Borough park with community events.

New Development and Growth in West Cape May

History of West Cape May, NJ

Incorporated in 1884.

The Lima Bean Festival has been an annual tradition celebrating the area's agricultural heritage.

West Cape May maintains a village character distinct from the resort atmosphere of Cape May city.

Safety in West Cape May

West Cape May is a very safe community.

Notable Residents

Annual Events and Festivals

Lima Bean Festival (October)

Frequently Asked Questions About West Cape May, NJ

What is the median home price in West Cape May, NJ?

The median home price is $550,000 as of 2026, with 5.8% year-over-year appreciation. Average $350/sqft, selling in 42 days.

How long is the commute from West Cape May to NYC?

130 minutes via NJ Transit from on the Drive to GSP. Transfer required.

What are property taxes in West Cape May, NJ?

Tax rate is 1.23%. Average homeowner pays $5,567/year. At the median price of $550,000, expect about $6,765/year.

What are the best neighborhoods in West Cape May?

Borough Center ($475,000 to $700,000). See the full guide above for all 1 neighborhoods.

Is West Cape May safe?

West Cape May is a very safe community.

How walkable is West Cape May, NJ?

Walk Score of 42, rated "Car-Dependent." Median income $68,000, median age 54.8. 18% renter-occupied.

Ready to Find Your Home in West Cape May?

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

Explore Nearby Communities

Cape May $850,000 130 min Lower Twp $360,000 128 min