According to Affinity’s 2025 Cost of a Day at the Shore index¹, vacation expenses are down for the first time since the pandemic. After three straight years of rising costs, this year brings a five percent average decrease across popular categories like beach services, travel, and local activities. That change could make a real difference for families planning to return to the Shore this summer.

This improvement comes after several years of steady increases. In 2022², the average cost of a Shore day jumped more than sixteen percent. That was followed by additional increases of nearly four percent in 2023³ and over seven percent in 2024⁴. This summer marks the first sign that prices may be easing for now.

While many categories are trending downward, lodging is still getting more expensive. The cost of vacation rentals has continued to rise, with prices up more than forty percent over the past two summers. Families planning longer stays should plan accordingly, as rental costs remain one of the most expensive aspects of a Shore getaway.

Even with some costs coming down, inflation and economic uncertainty remain top of mind for many. A few simple strategies can help you stay on budget while still enjoying the Shore experience.

Start planning early

Setting up a dedicated savings account⁵ for summer trips can go a long way. Contributing gradually over the year helps ease the pressure when vacation season arrives.

Bring your own supplies

Beach chairs, umbrellas, towels, snacks, and sunscreen are often marked up near the boardwalk. Packing these items from home can help you avoid impulse buys and keep spending in check.

Choose what matters most

Instead of doing everything, choose one or two special activities for your trip. Making the boardwalk arcade or your favorite seafood restaurant a highlight helps keep costs manageable while still creating memorable moments.

Find local options

Many Shore towns host free or low-cost summer events like fireworks, concerts, or movie nights. These community gatherings can add fun to your trip without adding to your budget.

Keeping the Shore Tradition Alive

The drop in costs this year offers more than just savings. For many families, a day at the Shore is about stepping away from routines, spending time together, and continuing a tradition that brings everyone closer. These simple summer moments support overall wellbeing, create space to recharge, and offer an opportunity to support local businesses that are the heart of Shore communities.

Whether it is your only trip of the season or one of many, a little planning can help you make the most of it. Affinity is here to help support your financial wellbeing along the way. Visit our website⁶ for more resources, tips, and the full breakdown of this year’s Cost of a Day at the Shore findings.

This information is for informational purposes only, is intended to provide general guidance, and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Each person's circumstances differ and may not apply to the specific information provided. You should seek the advice of a financial professional, tax consultant, and legal counsel to discuss your particular needs before making any financial or other commitments regarding the matters related to your condition.

¹ Retrieved from: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250519400410/en/Price-Declines-Expected-for-Jersey-Shore-Vacationers-this-Summer