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The basics:

• Jersey Shore vacation prices increase 11% YOY, according to Affinity
• Gas prices surge more than 51% in New Jersey
• Beach rental costs jump 53% in shore towns
• Affinity shares money-saving tips for families planning trips

To some, Memorial Day weekend may mean the start to Jersey Shore vacation planning. This summer, however, that may require slightly more budget strategizing. 

That’s because those trips could cost families 11% more this year, according to the latest Affinity Federal Credit Union research. 

That number is a reverse from 2025, when the average price of a Jersey Shore vacation dropped 5% year over year, the first significant decrease since the pandemic. 

“The Jersey Shore remains a meaningful and often non-negotiable part of summer for many of our members,” Grant Gallagher, director, Financial Wellbeing and Brand Communications at Basking Ridge-based Affinity, said in the May 18 announcement. “Increasing financial pressures won’t change the connection so many feel to the Shore.” 

Gallagher noted that the current “significant price hikes from businesses” indicate both companies and consumers are feeling financial strains. 

A recent Rutgers-Eagleton Poll confirms that thinking. The survey found New Jersey residents continue to struggle with the cost of necessities, such as groceries, housing, utility costs and, notably, transportation. 

Getting there 

According to Affinity, the cost of gas shot up 51.68% from last year. The ongoing war in Iran has disrupted global oil markets, causing a spike in fuel prices. The average price for a gallon of gas in New Jersey is about $4.50, according to GasBuddy. 

Additionally, parking costs are 50% more expensive than 2025. However, tolls decreased 7.49%. Overall, travel costs jumped 31.4% year over year, Affinity noted.

The price of fun 

When families get to their shore destination, they can expect to pay more for lodging, food and entertainment, including: 

• 53% increase in weeklong beach rental properties (in Asbury Park, Point Pleasant and Seaside Heights) 
• 6.74% more for food and drink 
• 5.23% more for leisure activities (mini-golf, aquarium admission, sunset cruise, etc.) 
• 1.79% increase in beach services (tags, sunblock, chair and umbrella rentals, etc.) 

Making it work 

“Affinity is focused on helping our members build strong financial futures while still enjoying the moments that matter most,” added Affinity President and CEO Kevin Brauer. “With vacation expenses rising sharply, we’re committed to providing guidance and resources that can help families navigate these challenges and make the most of their time away.” 

In a blog post accompanying the findings, Affinity offered families tips on how to save. Those include: 

• Carpooling with another family 
• Preparing your own meals (but go ahead and splurge on saltwater taffy – that treat is about the same price as last year, Affinity noted) 
• Bring your own games or create your own beach activities (such as paddle ball or shell-collecting) 

The research was conducted by a May 2026 telephone survey of New Jersey shore town businesses.