Philadelphia's suburbs offer a range of living environments, from historic small towns to modern, bustling communities. Here's an overview of some of the most popular suburbs around Philadelphia:
1. Main Line Suburbs
The Main Line is a group of affluent suburbs located to the west of Philadelphia, known for their historic charm, excellent schools, and convenient access to the city.
- Ardmore: A vibrant community with a mix of historic homes and modern amenities. Ardmore is home to the Suburban Square shopping district and offers easy access to public transportation.
- Wayne: Known for its picturesque downtown area, Wayne offers a mix of dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. It's a family-friendly community with top-rated schools.
- Bryn Mawr: Home to Bryn Mawr College, this suburb combines a strong educational environment with a close-knit community feel. It features beautiful homes and a charming downtown.
Chester County is known for its scenic countryside, historic sites, and high-quality schools.
- West Chester: The county seat of Chester County, West Chester is a lively town with a bustling downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The town has a historic feel and is home to West Chester University.
- Exton: A more suburban area with ample shopping and dining options, including the Exton Square Mall. It's a great choice for families looking for convenience and amenities.
- Malvern: A smaller, historic town with a strong community vibe. Malvern offers excellent schools, local shops, and proximity to corporate offices, making it popular among professionals.
Montgomery County offers a mix of urban, suburban, and rural settings, along with top-notch schools and plenty of recreational opportunities.
- King of Prussia: Known for the King of Prussia Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the country, this area is also home to a growing business district and new residential developments.
- Ambler: A charming small town with a walkable downtown, Ambler features theaters, restaurants, and shops. It's a community-oriented suburb with a variety of housing options.
- Blue Bell: A more upscale suburb with large homes, excellent schools, and plenty of green space. Blue Bell is a popular choice for families and professionals.
Bucks County is known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and strong sense of community.
- Newtown: A historic town with a vibrant downtown area, Newtown offers a mix of colonial architecture and modern amenities. It's known for its excellent schools and family-friendly environment.
- Doylestown: The county seat of Bucks County, Doylestown is a cultural hub with museums, theaters, and historic sites. It has a lively downtown area and is popular among families and retirees.
- Yardley: Located along the Delaware River, Yardley offers a quaint, small-town atmosphere with historic homes and a scenic riverfront. It's a peaceful, picturesque suburb.
Delaware County, also known as Delco, is known for its diversity, with both densely populated urban areas and quiet, rural communities.
- Media: Known as "Everybody's Hometown," Media offers a strong sense of community with a pedestrian-friendly downtown, local shops, and a variety of restaurants. It's also the county seat of Delaware County.
- Swarthmore: Home to Swarthmore College, this suburb has a strong academic presence and a charming downtown area. It's a quiet, tree-lined community with excellent schools.
- Haverford: Located close to the Main Line, Haverford offers a mix of historic homes, top-rated schools, and easy access to Philadelphia. It's a popular choice for families.
- Commute: Consider the distance and commute time to Philadelphia, especially if you work in the city.
- Schools: Many of these suburbs are known for their excellent public and private schools, which can be a deciding factor for families.
- Community Feel: Each suburb has its own vibe, whether you prefer a bustling downtown area, a quiet residential neighborhood, or a mix of both.
- Amenities: Look for nearby amenities such as shopping, dining, parks, and recreational facilities that suit your lifestyle.