Neighborhood Comparison Guide for Philadelphia Area Home Buyers
Discover how Philadelphia, Upper Darby, Egg Harbor Township, and Upper Chichester compare in schools, amenities, and property values.
Why Location Matters in Your Home Purchase Decision
Choosing where to buy a home is one of the most significant decisions you'll make as a homeowner. Beyond the four walls of your property, the neighborhood you select shapes your daily life, investment potential, and family's future. The Philadelphia area offers diverse communities, each with distinct characteristics, advantages, and price points. Whether you're a first-time buyer, growing family, or seasoned investor, understanding how these neighborhoods compare is essential to making an informed decision.
This guide examines four key markets in the Philadelphia region: Philadelphia proper, Upper Darby, Egg Harbor Township, and Upper Chichester. Each community offers unique benefits and challenges that appeal to different lifestyles and priorities.
Comparing School Districts, Commute Times, and Community Amenities Across Four Key Markets
Philadelphia
School Districts: Philadelphia's public school system serves over 130,000 students across numerous neighborhoods. While some schools excel academically, quality varies significantly by location. Many families opt for charter schools or private institutions. The School District of Philadelphia continues to invest in improvements, making certain neighborhoods increasingly attractive for education-focused families.
Commute Times: Philadelphia's central location offers excellent public transportation through SEPTA, making commutes manageable for those working downtown or in surrounding areas. Car commutes vary widely depending on your destination, but the city's walkability in neighborhoods like Center City, Rittenhouse, and University City reduces reliance on vehicles.
Community Amenities: Philadelphia boasts world-class museums, restaurants, theaters, and cultural institutions. From the Philadelphia Museum of Art to Independence Hall, residents enjoy unparalleled access to history, culture, and entertainment. Parks like Fairmount Park provide green space, while neighborhoods feature local coffee shops, galleries, and vibrant street life.
Upper Darby
School Districts: Upper Darby School District is consistently recognized as one of the strongest in the region. With well-funded schools and strong academic performance, it attracts families prioritizing education. The district offers diverse programs and extracurricular activities that enhance student development.
Commute Times: Upper Darby's location on the Main Line provides convenient access to Philadelphia via the SEPTA Regional Rail, making commutes to Center City approximately 20-30 minutes. The community is also well-positioned for those working in the western suburbs or along the Route 1 corridor.
Community Amenities: Upper Darby offers suburban comfort with urban convenience. The community features shopping centers, dining options, and recreational facilities. Nearby attractions include the Granite Run Mall and numerous parks. The neighborhood maintains a strong sense of community with local events and activities throughout the year.
Egg Harbor Township
School Districts: Egg Harbor Township Schools serve the community with solid academic programs. The district focuses on student achievement and offers various educational pathways. For families considering the Shore area, this township provides reasonable school options without the premium pricing of some other regions.
Commute Times: Located in Atlantic County near Atlantic City, Egg Harbor Township is ideal for those working in the Shore region or seeking a more relaxed lifestyle. Commutes to Philadelphia are longer (approximately 1.5-2 hours), making this community better suited for remote workers or those employed locally.
Community Amenities: This township offers beach proximity, outdoor recreation, and a more laid-back atmosphere. Residents enjoy access to Atlantic City's entertainment, coastal activities, and natural beauty. The area features golf courses, parks, and waterfront dining, appealing to those seeking a vacation-like lifestyle.
Upper Chichester
School Districts: Upper Chichester Township is served by the Chichester School District, which provides solid educational services. The district emphasizes community involvement and student success, though it may not have the same reputation as Upper Darby's system.
Commute Times: Located in Delaware County, Upper Chichester offers reasonable commutes to Philadelphia via car or public transportation. The community is well-positioned for those working in the southern suburbs or along the I-95 corridor, with commute times typically ranging from 30-45 minutes to Center City.
Community Amenities: Upper Chichester provides a quieter, more residential feel while maintaining proximity to urban amenities. The township features parks, local businesses, and a tight-knit community atmosphere. Residents benefit from being close enough to Philadelphia for entertainment and dining while enjoying suburban tranquility.
Property Values, Market Trends, and Affordability by Neighborhood
Philadelphia
Philadelphia's real estate market remains dynamic, with significant variation based on neighborhood. Center City and Rittenhouse command premium prices, often exceeding $500,000 for modest properties. However, emerging neighborhoods offer more affordable options, with some areas featuring properties in the $250,000-$400,000 range. The market has seen steady appreciation, particularly in revitalized neighborhoods. First-time buyers should research specific neighborhoods carefully, as prices and appreciation potential vary dramatically.
Upper Darby
Upper Darby offers excellent value for families prioritizing schools and suburban living. Properties typically range from $300,000 to $550,000, depending on size and condition. The strong school district supports property values and attracts consistent buyer interest. Market trends show steady appreciation, making Upper Darby a solid investment choice for long-term homeowners.
Egg Harbor Township
Egg Harbor Township provides the most affordable options among these four markets, with properties often ranging from $200,000 to $400,000. The lower price point reflects the more rural character and distance from major employment centers. However, for those seeking Shore proximity and a relaxed lifestyle, the affordability combined with quality of life makes it attractive. Market trends show modest appreciation, with strong seasonal demand from vacation home buyers.
Upper Chichester
Upper Chichester offers moderate pricing, with properties typically ranging from $280,000 to $450,000. The township provides good value compared to Upper Darby while maintaining suburban character and reasonable commute times. The market shows steady appreciation, appealing to buyers seeking balance between affordability and location.
Finding Your Ideal Home in the Right Philadelphia Area Community
Selecting the right neighborhood requires honest assessment of your priorities. Ask yourself:
- What are your non-negotiable factors—schools, commute time, urban amenities, or affordability?
- How important is walkability versus having a car-dependent lifestyle?
- Are you seeking investment appreciation or a long-term family home?
- What's your realistic budget, and how does it align with each market?
Philadelphia suits urban professionals and culture enthusiasts who value walkability and diverse experiences. Upper Darby appeals to families prioritizing excellent schools and suburban comfort. Egg Harbor Township attracts those seeking affordability and Shore lifestyle. Upper Chichester offers a middle ground for buyers wanting suburban living with reasonable commutes and moderate pricing.
The Philadelphia area's diversity means there's a neighborhood for nearly every lifestyle and budget. By carefully evaluating schools, commute times, amenities, and property values, you'll find the community that truly feels like home. Take time to visit neighborhoods at different times of day, talk to residents, and imagine your daily life there. Your ideal Philadelphia area home is waiting—you just need to know where to look.
