Coastal Shift: Cape May County is well on the path to recovery, with more than tourism in its sights Situated at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, Cape May County is well on its way to a post-pandemic renaissance that will see the county bolster its tourism roots while transforming its economy to accommodate the jobs of tomorrow. The push toward economic recovery from COVID-19 will take advantage of the county’s weather, historical roots and strong tourism amenities, coupled with an expanding technology and innovation sector to ensure Cape May County’s goal of creating a year-round home for both families and businesses alike. Termed the “Coastal Shift,” the county is uniquely positioned to meet the desire for high-paying jobs mixed with high quality-of-life offerings. But it all begins with a recovery in the vital tourism sector that was initially decimated by the ongoing health crisis. Already showing signs of a bounce back, as vaccination efforts continue and pent-up travel demand soars, Cape May County is set for a busy summer season that is expected to fuel the local economic ecosystem. “Cape May County is attracting interest in different business sectors due to a variety of factors that are very favorable for our county,” said Cape May County 52
| Invest: South Jersey 2021 | CAPE MAY COUNTY
Commissioner Vice Director Leonard Desiderio. “The trend toward outdoors open spaces along with our topranked beaches and investments we are making has really opened up a lot of doors. We are seeing record growth that has been accelerated in the post-pandemic world.” Landscape With a year-round population that hovers around 92,000, Cape May County’s summer population climbs to as much as 600,000 to 750,000 as residents return to their vacation homes. The population spike is crucial to keeping the local economy going year-round. In addition to tourism-linked businesses like bars and restaurants, supermarkets, hardware stores and other local businesses all see material benefits from the tourist population. During the pandemic, numerous reports and data indicate that those same summer residents began using their homes more frequently or even as their primary residence, supporting businesses outside the traditional summer season. That, in turn, has helped offset unemployment spikes. Traditionally, the peaks and troughs of the county’s unemployment rate have fluctuated with the increase ( )
