Senior Living in the Gaming Capital of the U.S. – Atlantic City: Embracing Casino Culture

Atlantic City Quick Facts

1. First Casino Outside of Nevada: Atlantic City was home to the first legal casino outside of Nevada, which opened in 1978, symbolizing its significant role in the history of gambling in the United States.
2. Salt Water Taffy: Salt Water Taffy, a quintessential seaside treat, was first popularized in Atlantic City by Joseph Fralinger, and to this day, the company still produces over 600,000 pounds of taffy annually.
3. Diving Horses: In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Atlantic City's most popular attraction was a diving horse, adding a fascinating dimension to its historical entertainment offerings.
4. World's Largest Musical Instrument: The Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City houses the world's largest musical instrument, an enormous pipe organ with over 33,000 pipes.
5. Birthplace of Miss America: The iconic Miss America Pageant made its debut in Atlantic City in 1921, marking the city as the birthplace of this celebrated event.
6. Historic Boardwalk: Atlantic City was home to the United States' first boardwalk, built in 1870, and was removed each winter before being replaced in 1880.
7. Inspiration for Monopoly: The properties on the board of the classic game Monopoly are all based on real-life Atlantic City locations, showcasing the city's influence on popular culture.
8. Historic Lighthouse: Atlantic City is host to the Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey, offering a unique historical and architectural attraction.
9. Impressive Tourism: With more than 15,000 hotel rooms and approximately 27 million tourists annually, AC remains a premier destination for travelers from around the world.
10. Cascade in a Retail World: This captivating city even features its own indoor waterfall, located within Bass Pro Shops, adding to its intriguing array of attractions.

General Information About Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a vibrant seaside destination located in southeastern New Jersey on Absecon Island. 

Famous for its iconic Boardwalk, diverse culinary scene, and renowned casinos, Atlantic City attracts millions of visitors annually. 

With a convenient location just a short distance from major cities like Philadelphia and New York, it stands as a top tourist hotspot on the East Coast. 

Explore the dynamic blend of entertainment, dining, shopping, and recreational activities that define Atlantic City's unique charm.  

Population and Demographics

With a population of approximately 37,999 and a median income of $29,232, America's Playground attracts a diverse community. The city is home to a significant percentage of Black and Latinx residents, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry.

Housing and Cost of Living

The median home value in Atlantic City stands at $156,700, making it an affordable option for homeowners. However, with 57.4% of households being rent-burdened, the city faces challenges in providing affordable housing. The average rent of $904 per month poses a significant burden on low-income renters.

Quality of Life and Safety

While Monopoly City offers a vibrant lifestyle with numerous entertainment options, including casinos and beaches, concerns about safety persist. 

The city's crime rate and unemployment levels are higher than the national average, impacting the overall quality of life.

Access to Amenities and Services

One of the key challenges in Atlantic City is the lack of a supermarket, forcing residents to travel off the island for groceries. Efforts like mobile grocery stores aim to address this issue and provide access to fresh produce at affordable rates.

In terms of healthcare, Atlantic City has several hospitals and medical centers, including AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center and Shore Medical Center. 

However, the city's poverty rate of 27.5% and lower median income compared to the state average can make accessing healthcare services challenging for some residents.

Public transportation in Atlantic City is provided by NJ Transit, with bus routes connecting the city to surrounding areas. 

The Atlantic City Rail Terminal also offers service to Philadelphia and other destinations. While public transportation is available, some residents may find the coverage and frequency of service to be limited.

Job Market and Economy

Atlantic City's economy is centered around the Arts, Accommodation, and Food Services industries, primarily driven by the casino and tourism sector. 

However, the city's unemployment rate of 4.9% and lower average income compared to the state average highlight economic disparities.

Another domain is gambling establishments. According to the information provided, in 2011, New Jersey's then-12 casinos employed approximately 33,000 employees. 

This statistic suggests that Atlantic City's casinos employed a significant number of people, making them a major employer in the city. In 2024, this number is doubled.

Interesting Fact

Did you know that online casino gambling in DO AC requires a partnership agreement with a land-based casino? This unique regulation ensures a seamless integration between online and offline gaming experiences. Experts on the US legal gambling from jackpotsounds.com were invited to provide insights into the legality of this partnership model, shedding light on the intricate regulatory landscape that governs the online gambling industry.

Online casino gambling operates in a manner where online casinos must establish partnership agreements with land-based casinos to operate legally. This requirement ensures compliance with regulations and licensing frameworks, particularly in regions like the United States and certain European countries. 

The collaboration between online and land-based casinos is essential for maintaining legal operations and offering a seamless gaming experience to players.

Pros and Cons of Living in Atlantic City

Atlantic City, nestled along the Jersey Shore, presents a unique blend of opportunities and challenges for those considering calling it home. Let's explore the various pros and cons of living in this iconic gaming capital of the U.S.

Pros

Living in Atlantic City offers a unique blend of opportunities and experiences that cater to diverse lifestyles. From its vibrant entertainment scene to picturesque beaches and rich cultural diversity, Atlantic City presents a range of advantages for residents. 

The city's job market, centered around tourism and hospitality, provides employment opportunities, while its affordable housing options make it an attractive choice for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. 

Besides, with a variety of dining options, historical significance, and year-round activities, Atlantic City ensures there is always something to do for those who enjoy dining out, exploring, and engaging in a dynamic urban environment.

1. Entertainment Hub

Atlantic City is renowned for its vibrant entertainment scene, with world-class casinos like Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and Caesars Atlantic City offering a plethora of gaming and nightlife options. The city hosts events like the Atlantic City Airshow, attracting visitors and residents alike.

2. Beachfront Living

With its picturesque beaches stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City provides residents with a serene coastal lifestyle. The iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk offers a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities.

3. Cultural Diversity

The city's diverse population contributes to a rich cultural tapestry, with communities like Ducktown and Chelsea Heights adding unique flavors to the local scene. Festivals like the Atlantic City Seafood Festival celebrate this diversity.

4. Job Opportunities

Atlantic City's economy revolves around tourism and hospitality, offering employment opportunities in sectors like gaming, hospitality, and retail. The city's unemployment rate of 4.9% showcases a steady job market for residents.

5. Dining and Cuisine

From upscale dining establishments like Chef Vola's to local favorites like White House Sub Shop, Atlantic City boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Residents can savor a variety of cuisines, from fresh seafood to Italian delicacies.

Cons

Living in AC, like any city, comes with its unique set of challenges and drawbacks that residents should consider. From concerns about crime rates to economic disparities and seasonal fluctuations in job opportunities, there are several factors that individuals should weigh when contemplating making Atlantic City their home.

1. Crime Rates

Despite efforts to improve safety, The World's Playground continues to face challenges with crime rates higher than the national average. Initiatives like community policing aim to address these concerns, but crime remains a significant issue in certain neighborhoods.

2. Housing Affordability

While the median home value in AC is $156,700, making it relatively affordable, the city grapples with a high rent burden. With 57.4% of households facing challenges in affording rent, housing affordability remains a pressing issue for many residents.

3. Infrastructure Challenges

Atlantic City faces infrastructure challenges, including issues with transportation and access to essential services. The lack of a supermarket on the island poses difficulties for residents in accessing fresh groceries, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure.

4. Seasonal Tourism

The city's economy heavily relies on seasonal tourism, leading to fluctuations in job opportunities and economic stability. The off-peak seasons can pose challenges for residents working in the tourism sector, impacting their livelihoods.

5. Environmental Concerns

Atlantic City faces environmental challenges, including coastal erosion and flooding risks due to its location along The World's Playground. Climate change poses a threat to the city's infrastructure and residents, necessitating proactive measures to address these concerns.

In weighing the pros and cons of living in Atlantic City, individuals must consider factors like job opportunities, housing affordability, safety, and lifestyle preferences to make an informed decision about calling this vibrant city home.

Conclusion

Atlantic City offers a blend of entertainment, affordability, and cultural diversity, making it an intriguing choice for adults considering a move. 

While the city boasts a rich history and vibrant atmosphere, challenges such as housing affordability and safety concerns should be carefully considered before making the decision to call Atlantic City home.

References

1. Atlantic City: Winners and Losers
2. Rediscover the Hidden New Jersey
3. Atlantic City city, New Jersey — Census Bureau Profile

Disclaimer: This article about Atlantic City, NJ, contains a link to an online gambling website. Please be aware that gambling involves financial risk and may not be suitable for everyone. Make sure to gamble responsibly and within your means. If you have a gambling problem, seek help from a professional organization such as the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. The inclusion of the link is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement of the website or its services.