Strong support for Stay NJ underscores importance of property tax relief to aging in place

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NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ – A new AARP New Jersey Vital Voices survey highlights the growing affordability crisis facing older residents and the real risk it poses to the state’s ability to retain them.

More than one in three New Jersey residents age 45+ (35%) say they have considered leaving the state in the past year. Among them, nearly eight in ten (79%) say they are likely to move, with over two-thirds (67%) citing a desire for a lower overall cost of living. Additionally, an overwhelming 92% of older residents say being able to afford groceries and everyday necessities is important, underscoring the financial strain many households are facing.

“New Jersey should be a place where people can afford to grow older,not a place they feel forced to leave,” said Chris Widelo, State Director of AARP New Jersey. “Right now, rising costs are pushing people out, and this survey makes clear that older residents are counting on solutions like Stay NJ to help them stay in their homes. When it comes to property tax relief, people want policymakers to keep the promise that was made.

Strong support for Stay NJ as a critical lifeline

Property taxes are a major factor driving concerns about leaving New Jersey, with 53% of respondents citing them as a key reason—underscoring why property tax relief programs like Stay NJ, which provides eligible homeowners with up to $6,500 per year, are essential to helping older residents remain in their homes.

Nearly two-thirds (65%) of respondents support keeping Stay NJ as it is, including maintaining the full $6,500 benefit and current income eligibility.

Even when presented with potential changes, support remains strongest for preserving the full benefit: 59% of respondents age 65+ would support lowering the income limit if the $6,500 maximum benefit is maintained.Rising utility costs adding to financial strainRising utility costs are adding another layer of financial pressure for residents already struggling with high housing and everyday expenses, making it harder for many to plan for their financial security as they age in New Jersey.The survey shows that these concerns are widespread:

• 89% of residents are concerned about their electricity bills increasing, including 62% who are very concerned

Overwhelming support for nursing home transparency

For families navigating long-term care, residents want greater confidence that facilities are delivering quality care and using public dollars responsibly.

The survey shows strong demand for accountability:

• 82% support requiring nursing homes to disclose ownership, staffing, and financial arrangements
• 88% support transparency in how Medicaid funding is spent

Respondents also want clearer, more accessible information when choosing care, including inspection results, out-of-pocket costs, and records of complaints and enforcement actions.

Caregiving responsibilities widespread and costly

At the same time, many families are balancing these financial pressures with the responsibilities of caring for aging loved ones—often without pay and with limited support.

The survey highlights both the scale and the strain of caregiving:

• 54% of adults 45+ have provided unpaid care to a loved one
• 58% say the financial cost of caregiving would be a concern
• 86% support a caregiver tax credit to help offset those costs

AARP: Focus on affordability to keep residents in New Jersey

As state leaders continue budget discussions, AARP New Jersey is calling for policies that address the full range of affordability challenges—from property taxes and utilities to caregiving and health care costs.

“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.”

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About AARP 

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.