New Jersey vs Pennsylvania: The Best Places to Live for Families

Are you caught in the dilemma of choosing between New Jersey vs Pennsylvania for your family's next home? In this blog, we dissect the suburban showdown between Marlton, NJ, and the Philadelphia suburbs of Haverford and Upper Dublin. From housing markets to schools, commuting, and lifestyle amenities, we cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

• Welcome to the South Jersey vs Philadelphia Suburbs Showdown
• Why Compare Marlton NJ, Haverford PA, and Upper Dublin PA?
• Housing Market Overview in Marlton NJ
• Housing Market Overview in Haverford PA and Upper Dublin, PA
• Comparing Property Taxes: NJ vs PA
• Education Systems of Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin
• Commuting and Transportation Options of Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin
• How We Can Help You Move to South Jersey or the Philly Suburbs
• FAQs about Moving to Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin

Welcome to the South Jersey vs Philadelphia Suburbs Showdown

Welcome to the ultimate showdown where we dive deep into the suburban charm of South Jersey and the Philadelphia suburbs! Here, we’ll explore the distinct vibes, amenities, and lifestyles of Marlton, NJ, and its Pennsylvania counterparts, Haverford and Upper Dublin. If you're contemplating a move to the suburbs, this is the perfect place to start your journey.

Why are we focusing on these specific towns? Well, Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin have become synonymous with family-friendly living, offering a blend of community spirit, accessibility, and quality education. Each town brings something unique to the table, making it essential to understand their offerings before making a decision.

Why Compare Marlton NJ, Haverford PA, and Upper Dublin PA?

We chose Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin because they represent the best of what suburban living can offer. These towns are not just about houses; they're about community, education, and lifestyle. Families looking for that perfect suburban blend will find that these towns check all the right boxes.

First and foremost, let’s talk about schools. Strong educational institutions are a top priority for families. Marlton boasts smaller class sizes, which allows for more individualized attention. On the other hand, Upper Dublin and Haverford shine with their state and national rankings, offering specialized programs that cater to advanced academics.

Additionally, the amenities in these towns cater to diverse lifestyles. Whether you’re a fan of outdoor activities, shopping, or dining, there’s something for everyone. Marlton features robust shopping centers along Routes 70 and 73, while Haverford and Upper Dublin offer charming main streets with unique local businesses.

And let’s not forget about commutes! Proximity to Philadelphia is a significant factor for many families. Marlton provides a manageable commute while still feeling like a retreat from city life. Haverford and Upper Dublin offer a slightly different experience, with their rich history and character adding to the suburban allure.

Housing Market Overview in Marlton NJ

Let’s dive into the housing market in Marlton, NJ. This town is often regarded as the most affordable option among our trio. The median home value here is around $456,000, which has seen an impressive increase of 88.3% over the last year. The median listing price currently stands at $462,500, with a price per square foot of $238.

What’s particularly appealing about Marlton is its balance. You can find spacious four-bedroom homes without stretching your budget too far. Homes typically sell quickly, often within 1 to 19 days, making it essential to act fast if you find something you love.

Marlton’s community vibe is friendly and welcoming. Neighbors know each other, and there’s a strong sense of belonging. The town is not just residential; it has a variety of shopping options and recreational amenities, making it a great place for families to thrive.

Housing Market Overview in Haverford PA and Upper Dublin, PA

Now, let’s shift our focus to Haverford and Upper Dublin. Haverford embodies the classic Philadelphia suburb vibe with charming, historic homes that boast character and elegance. The median home value here is approximately $413,000, with a median listing price around $495,000. This translates to a price per square foot of $294.

Homes in Haverford tend to take a bit longer to sell, typically around 30 days. This slower pace indicates a competitive market, but it also means you have time to consider your options. The median sale price has increased by 11.5% year-over-year, showing strong demand and potential for equity growth.

Upper Dublin, on the other hand, is known for its polished suburban lifestyle. The median listing price here is $618,000, reflecting a 14.5% increase. Homes sell quickly, often within just 12 days, making it the fastest-paced market of the three. Families looking for upscale living will appreciate the large lots, open floor plans, and premium finishes that Upper Dublin has to offer.

All three towns—Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin—offer solid educational options, but they cater to slightly different priorities. While Upper Dublin and Haverford boast advanced academic programs, Marlton focuses on smaller class sizes and strong extracurricular activities, which can be a deciding factor for many families.

Comparing Property Taxes: NJ vs PA

One of the most significant factors in deciding between New Jersey vs Pennsylvania is undoubtedly property taxes. New Jersey has earned a reputation for high property taxes, and while that holds some truth, the overall affordability can be more nuanced when you compare specific locations like Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin.

In Marlton, the median home price is about $412,000, with an average property tax rate of 2.42%. This translates to roughly $9,970 in annual taxes. On the other hand, Haverford's median home price is higher at approximately $532,000, but Pennsylvania's average tax rate is lower at 1.69%. This means Haverford residents pay around $8,995 annually in property taxes, which is less than Marlton despite the higher home price.

Upper Dublin has an even higher median home price, sitting at $645,000, but maintains the same 1.69% tax rate, leading to approximately $10,900 in taxes. However, this isn’t the complete story. Residents in Haverford and Upper Dublin also face additional local taxes that can add up quickly, such as the Earned Income Tax, which is typically around 1% of your household income, plus a local services tax of $52 annually.

When we consider total housing costs, Marlton may seem more predictable and straightforward due to its higher property tax but lower additional local taxes. It’s essential to weigh these factors when considering your overall budget. For example, the total annual housing cost for a home in Marlton comes to about $38,698. In contrast, a similar home in Haverford totals around $50,463, and in Upper Dublin, it climbs to about $57,200.

Education Systems of Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin

Education is another pivotal factor when comparing Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin. Each community offers distinct educational experiences that can influence your decision. Marlton is served by the Evesham Township School District for K-8, transitioning to Lenape Regional High School District for high school. The schools here are known for their consistent performance, with Cherokee High School boasting a 96.4% graduation rate.

In Haverford, the education system is continuous from K-12, with Haverford Senior High School ranked 36th in Pennsylvania. This district balances academics with extracurricular activities, although class sizes are a bit larger, averaging a 15:1 student-teacher ratio.

Upper Dublin also offers a K-12 system and is ranked 27th in the state. It provides advanced academic opportunities, including gifted education and AP courses, which can be crucial for families focused on preparing their children for higher education. However, it shares the same student-teacher ratio as Haverford, which can impact the level of individualized attention students receive.

In summary, while Marlton offers smaller class sizes that foster personalized learning, Haverford and Upper Dublin stand out due to their higher academic rankings and specialized programs. The right choice will depend on your family’s educational priorities.

Commuting and Transportation Options of Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin

When it comes to commuting and transportation, the proximity to Philadelphia is a crucial factor. Marlton is about 14.8 miles east of Philly, making for a quick drive of approximately 20 minutes under light traffic. However, during peak hours, commuters can expect delays, particularly at the bridges.

Haverford is slightly closer at about 13 miles from Philly, with a typical commute taking around 28 minutes. The town offers reliable access to major routes, making it straightforward for residents to drive into the city. Additionally, Haverford has SEPTA train service, allowing for a quick ride into the city in about 22 minutes.

Upper Dublin is about 16.1 miles from Philadelphia, with a similar drive time of around 28 minutes. It also has access to major roadways, though timing is critical to avoid rush hour delays. The Fort Washington station provides a convenient train option, taking about 32 minutes to reach downtown Philly.

Each community offers various commuting options, making it easier for residents to choose what fits their lifestyle best. Whether you prefer driving or taking public transit, you'll find accessible routes from Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin.

How We Can Help You Move to South Jersey or the Philly Suburbs

If you’re considering a move to South Jersey or the Philadelphia suburbs, you’re not alone! Many families are making the leap to these vibrant communities, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re buying, selling, or doing both, our team is equipped to guide you through the entire process.

We start by understanding your unique situation and goals. Are you looking for a family-friendly neighborhood with great schools? Or maybe you want to be close to vibrant shopping and dining options? Whatever your priorities, we'll help you create a personalized plan that fits your needs.

Our expertise extends beyond just finding a home. We’ll help you navigate the logistics of moving, from understanding the local market to coordinating the details of your transition. Our goal is to make the process as seamless as possible, allowing you to focus on settling into your new community.

We pride ourselves on our deep knowledge of the area, including the nuances of each neighborhood. This means we can provide you with insights on the best schools, parks, and local amenities that fit your lifestyle. Plus, our established relationships with local service providers can ease your transition.

So, if you’re ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to reach out. We would love to chat with you about your goals, answer any questions you have, and help you find the perfect community and home that works best for you.

FAQs about Moving to Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin

Moving to a new area can come with a lot of questions. To help you navigate your decision, here are some frequently asked questions about moving to Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin.

What is the cost of living like in Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin?

The cost of living can vary significantly between these towns. Marlton tends to be more affordable, especially in terms of housing costs. Haverford and Upper Dublin, while slightly pricier, offer amenities and schools that many families find worth the investment.

How are the school districts in these areas?

Education is a top priority in all three towns. Marlton is known for its smaller class sizes and strong community support, while Haverford and Upper Dublin offer highly ranked academic programs with advanced placement options.

What recreational activities are available?

All three towns offer a variety of recreational activities. Marlton has numerous parks and sports facilities, while Haverford is known for its historical sites and community events. Upper Dublin boasts beautiful parklands and trails for outdoor enthusiasts.

How is the public transportation system?

Public transportation options are accessible in Haverford and Upper Dublin with SEPTA train services, making commutes to Philadelphia straightforward. Marlton offers convenient driving routes, but public transit options are more limited.

What is the community vibe like in each town?

Marlton has a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, where neighbors often know each other. Haverford exudes a classic suburban charm with a touch of history, while Upper Dublin offers a polished, upscale environment, perfect for those looking for a quieter lifestyle.

Each of these towns has its unique appeal, and understanding these aspects can help you make the right decision for your family. If you have more questions or need personalized advice, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you find your perfect fit in the New Jersey vs Pennsylvania debate!