New survey data released May 13 suggests affordability pressures are increasingly shaping whether older New Jersey residents stay or leave the state.

More than one-third of residents age 45 and older – 35% – said they have considered leaving New Jersey in the past year, according to a new AARP New Jersey “Vital Voices” survey. Among those weighing a move, 67% said the high cost of living is a primary reason.

The findings come as state lawmakers continue discussions centered on property taxes, utility costs and policies aimed at helping residents age in place.

“New Jersey should be a place where people can afford to grow older, not a place they feel forced to leave,” Chris Widelo, state director of AARP New Jersey, said in a statement. “Right now, rising costs are pushing people out.”

NJ property taxes, utilities driving concern

Affordability pressures extend across multiple key household costs.

Property taxes remain a central concern, with 53% of respondents citing them as a factor in considering leaving the state. The survey also found strong support for the Stay NJ program, which provides eligible homeowners with up to $6,500 in annual property tax relief.

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Nearly two-thirds of respondents (65%) said they support keeping the program intact, including maintaining the full benefit.

Rising utility costs are also a growing concern. About 89% of respondents said they are worried about increasing electricity bills, including a majority who said they are “very concerned.”

Support for caregiving relief, transparency

The survey highlights financial and logistical pressures facing caregivers, as more residents provide unpaid care for aging relatives.

More than half – 54% – of adults age 45 and older said they have served as unpaid caregivers. A majority said caregiving costs are a financial concern, and 86% expressed support for a caregiver tax credit.

Respondents also backed greater oversight of long-term care facilities. Strong majorities said they support requirements for nursing homes to disclose ownership, staffing levels and financial arrangements, along with greater transparency in how Medicaid funding is spent.

What it means for NJ budget talks

The findings underscore a broader policy debate in Trenton over how to address affordability challenges while maintaining services.

AARP New Jersey is urging state leaders to prioritize policies that reduce financial strain on older adults, including property tax relief, utility affordability and support for caregivers.

“This survey sends a clear message,” Widelo said. “If New Jersey wants to remain a place where people can age with dignity, we must focus on making it more affordable to stay.”

This story was created by reporter Joe Martino, jmartino@usatodayco.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more.