Classified as the smallest and most remote community within Downe Township, New Jersey, Money Island first experienced residential development in the 1930s. By the 1940s, the first homes were constructed in the community, where most residents were commercial fishermen. Designated as the second most important seafood port in the State of New Jersey, the Money Island Marina, in collaboration with various harvesters, aquaculture, and associated business, generated roughly $20 million in products annually (oysters, blue crabs, soft-shell crabs, menhaden, conch, eels, and previously horseshoe crabs (discontinued in 2016). Unfortunately for this community, global warming and increasing sea levels forced many local residents to vacate Money Island in search of more structural stability. Especially considering the damages caused by Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

As of 2016, Money Island's residential population fell below 20, to which only <10 of the original 40 homes were occupied. As of November 2022, Money Island's population was five total residents. However, even though Money Island has become unsuitable for residential development and overall living to many, it has become an intriguing geographical area for research purposes. Many non-profit organizations, universities, and state-run organizations have begun to conduct shoreline-stabilization projects within the community to decrease erosion caused by elevated sea levels. Comparable to work completed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. All is not lost as the Money Island Marina remains intact (but private) as both public and private interests still remain with access to the waterways. Also, with an emphasis on sustainable infrastructure and restorative aquaculture, Money Island will eventually become a primary location for the state's oyster nurseries. Estimated to see a growth percentage increase of 1,000% - 2,000% in the Delaware Bay, Money Island has the potential to become a leading contributor to the state's seafood economy once again.