OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County has retained its top bond ratings from Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings, a designation county officials say helps reduce borrowing costs for public improvements.
The ratings carry a stable outlook and reflect the county’s broad tax base, limited debt and healthy financial operations, according to an announcement from the Board of Commissioners.
The county first earned its highest rating in 2010. Commissioners said maintaining sound finances remains a priority during each annual budget cycle.
Although beachfront properties remain a major source of taxable value, development in inland communities is helping expand the county’s economy and diversify its revenue base, officials said.
Financial reserves are expected to remain steady through the end of 2026. County officials also pointed to debt levels they described as low compared with those of other New Jersey counties.
According to the county’s announcement, Moody’s cited the size and diversity of the tax base, manageable debt obligations and consistently strong financial performance as factors supporting its rating.
The stable outlook reflects expectations that budget oversight will limit fluctuations in financial operations while the tax base continues growing. Debt is not expected to rise substantially, officials said.
Strong credit ratings can help the county secure lower interest rates when borrowing for major construction and infrastructure work, reducing the expense passed along to taxpayers.
The county uses bonds to spread the cost of larger projects over several years. Those investments include road and bridge work, improvements to government buildings and other infrastructure serving communities throughout the county.
Commissioners said the ratings support continued investment in facilities and services while helping control long-term financing costs.
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