Surf, Sand, and Sold Signs: Why Manahawkin, Beach Haven, and LBI Are On Fire in 2025

The Jersey Shore’s real estate surge isn’t just hype—it’s data-driven, and it’s happening fast. Manahawkin, Beach Haven, and Long Beach Island (LBI) are at the epicenter of one of New Jersey’s most competitive housing markets. Whether you're a homebuyer, investor, or seller, understanding what’s fueling this spike could give you the edge in one of the most sought-after coastal regions on the East Coast.

🔥 Record-Setting Price Growth

Manahawkin is seeing average home values climb to $548,625, a 6.4% increase year-over-year, with homes going pending in just 19 days. Nearly 77% of properties were sold in less than 30 days in April 2025.

In Beach Haven, average home values hit $1,519,188—up 7.7%. Oceanfront and bayfront properties are particularly hot, often igniting bidding wars and closing well above asking.

Long Beach Island (LBI)? It's gone elite. The average sale price skyrocketed 14% in a single month, landing at $2,427,349 in April 2025. Seven homes sold over asking—up from four just a month earlier.

🌊 What’s Driving This Red-Hot Demand?

1. Lifestyle Over Everything
The coastal lifestyle has become more than a dream—it's now a full-time reality for many. With remote work allowing more flexibility, year-round living is replacing seasonal getaways. Think beachfront homes, daily sunsets, and water sports in your backyard.

2. Income Potential for Investors
High occupancy rates and premium nightly rental prices make Beach Haven and LBI especially attractive to short-term rental investors. Strong rental histories and limited supply create an opportunity for consistent, long-term returns.

3. Tight Inventory + New Construction
Manahawkin had just 180 homes for sale in April 2025. On LBI, new listings dropped nearly 21% from March to April. While some new construction is coming—particularly in Beach Haven—it’s not enough to meet demand.

4. Out-of-State Migration
Buyers from Los Angeles, Long Island, Spokane, and Vineyard Haven are eyeing Manahawkin for its proximity to LBI and affordability. Many local buyers are also staying put, reducing turnover and adding pressure.

5. Fast Closings, Fierce Bidding
Homes don’t just sit—they move. In Manahawkin, 68% sold below asking, but nearly 20% sold at or above asking, often within weeks. On LBI, the sales-to-list price ratio hit 98.7%, showing how close buyers are coming to (or exceeding) asking prices.

🏡 Why Buyers Can’t Get Enough

• Waterfront Access: From docking your boat at home to ocean views at sunrise, it's all here.

• Small-Town Energy: Especially in Beach Haven—boutiques, biking, and boardwalk charm abound.

• Attractions & Events: Seasonal festivals, concerts, and an exploding food scene keep it lively.

• Natural Beauty: Ocean, bay, and pristine stretches of sand—every direction is a postcard.

• Easy Access: Quick trips from NYC and Philly make this region the ultimate weekend retreat or permanent home base.

The Bottom Line

Manahawkin, Beach Haven, and Long Beach Island are on fire for a reason. Demand is up, inventory is down, and buyers are acting fast. Whether you're eyeing a vacation home, income property, or a permanent coastal escape, now’s the time to move—and move quickly. These aren’t just vacation towns anymore. They're year-round, high-demand hotspots with no signs of cooling off.