Cape May County

Cape May County, NJ, has a population of approximately 95,263 people. The racial composition is 87.5% White, 6.8% African American, 1.5% Asian, 2.6% from other races, and 1.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up about 7.8%. The median age is 49.8 years, with 21.1% under 18, and 24.5% 65 and older. The median household income is approximately $64,873. The county spans about 620.28 square miles, including 251.42 square miles of land and 368.86 square miles of water.

As of 2023, Cape May County, NJ has a median home value of approximately $400,000. The median rent is around $1,750 per month. The homeownership rate is about 70%, with a vacancy rate of 30%, largely due to seasonal fluctuations. The average property tax rate is 1.88%, higher than the national average. Housing inventory is relatively low, driving prices up due to high demand. The average household income is about $67,000. Demand is strong for both primary and secondary homes, influenced by the county's coastal location and tourism industry.

Cape May County, NJ holds elections for various local, county, state, and federal positions. In 2021, for instance, the county had a voter registration of approximately 73,000. Key positions include the Cape May County Commissioners, Sheriff, and Surrogate.

For the 2022 election cycle, notable candidates included Jeff Van Drew (Republican) for U.S. Congress in the 2nd Congressional District. For local races, candidates varied across different municipalities in the county such as Cape May City and Ocean City. Local elections often feature candidates for positions like mayor, city council, and school board members.

Each municipality within the county has its own set of candidates and specific election details, with voter turnout historically ranging from 40% to 65% depending on whether it's a general or presidential election year. For precise candidate lists and numerical result details, the Cape May County Clerk's office or the New Jersey Division of Elections website provides comprehensive information.

As of the latest data, Cape May County, NJ has a relatively high level of educational attainment. Approximately 92% of adults aged 25 and over have a high school diploma or higher, which is comparable to the national average of around 88% and slightly above the state average of approximately 91%. For higher education, about 29% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is in line with the national average of 33%, but below the New Jersey state average of 41%. These statistics suggest that while Cape May County is on par with national high school graduation rates, it lags behind both state and national figures in terms of college degree attainment.

As of recent data, Cape May County, NJ has a labor force of approximately 47,000 people, with the unemployment rate around 7.3%, higher than the national average of around 3.5% and the New Jersey state average of about 5.0%. Top industries in Cape May County include:

1. Tourism and Hospitality: This sector dominates, with many seasonal jobs linked to hotels, restaurants, and recreational activities.
2. Retail Trade: Retail stores, both small businesses and larger chains, provide substantial employment opportunities.
3. Healthcare and Social Assistance: This industry has seen growth, especially with the aging population in the region.
4. Construction: Driven by residential and commercial development.
5. Education Services: Schools and educational institutions also contribute significantly.

Compared to national trends, Cape May County heavily relies on tourism, starkly more than the national average, reflecting its status as a notable vacation destination.

As of the most recent data, the median household income in Cape May County, NJ, is approximately $62,000. Comparatively, the median household income for the state of New Jersey stands at around $85,245. On a national level, the median household income is approximately $70,784. Cape May County's income is thus notably lower than both the state and national averages.

Below is a quick statistics table:

Cape May County's income levels reflect a more modest economic situation compared to the generally wealthier state of New Jersey and align closely, though on the lower end, with the broader national profile.

As of the latest data, Cape May County, NJ has notable crime statistics. The total crime rate is approximately 2,180 incidents per 100,000 people. The property crime rate stands at around 1,960 per 100,000, while violent crime rates are lower, approximately 220 per 100,000. Here is a breakdown:

Please note that crime rates can fluctuate year by year, so it is essential to refer to the latest local law enforcement or community crime databases for up-to-date information.