Vacation Inflation: Prices at Jersey shore expected to be higher this summer

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (WPVI) -- Travelers heading to the Jersey Shore this summer should expect to pay significantly more than they did last year, according to new research.

One analyst called it "vacation inflation," and it could impact everything from shore rentals, parking, and even a slice of pizza.

The report released this week by Affinity Federal Credit Union found an 11.3% year-over-year increase in the overall cost of a Jersey Shore vacation.

The analysis reviewed expenses, including fuel, parking, lodging, food, and amusement activities, reversing the 5% price decrease beachgoers saw last summer.

With everyone so excited for the unofficial start of summer, many people are going to the shore. Experts warn they should be ready for some sticker shock.

"Absolutely. We're seeing a 11.3% increase in year-over-year cost for the cost of a Jersey Shore vacation," replied Grant Gallagher with Affinity Federal Credit.

The report found weeklong vacation rentals saw the steepest jump, rising 53% from last year.

Travel-related costs followed, with gas up 52% and parking up 50%. Food prices increased 7%, with pizza showing the largest spike at 29%.

"We know how much our New Jerseyans love that shore slice, so that's gonna be a tough pill to swallow for some," Gallagher said.

The good news for local shore-goers is that despite the pressure to do so, the folks at Manco & Manco Pizza, one of the shores most famous pizza shops, tell Action News they have not raised prices.

Still, the rising costs may force families to make some hard choices, with some opting for shorter stays or day trips instead of weeklong vacations.

Gallagher said travelers can still find ways to save.

"We've seen that rentals are typically cheaper if you move a little bit further away from the shore, that can save you a few dollars," he said.

He also advised skipping costly rentals on beach umbrellas and chair rentals and opting instead to bring them from home.

Hitting the grocery store before you hit the shore could also help cut costs.

The report also found the cost of beach tags up 7% and mini golf games up 5%, so beachgoers really need to plan a budget and expect to pay more.