Short Answer
Relocating from Philadelphia to South Jersey is a popular move for families and young professionals seeking more space, better schools, and lower cost of living while staying close to the city. The PATCO Speedline makes commuting to Center City quick and easy. Property taxes in New Jersey are higher than Philadelphia, but you get more home for your money. Each town has its own personality, so take time to find the right fit for your lifestyle.
The Philadelphia to South Jersey relocation is one of the most common moves I see. Buyers typically want more square footage, a yard, better schools, and a quieter neighborhood while keeping their Philadelphia jobs and connections. The PATCO Speedline is the key link, with stations in Collingswood, Haddonfield, Cherry Hill, Voorhees, and Lindenwold. The train ride from Cherry Hill to Center City is about 22 minutes. Driving via the Ben Franklin or Walt Whitman Bridges takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. You should be aware of the tax difference. New Jersey has higher property taxes than Philadelphia, but income taxes may be lower depending on your situation. The overall cost of living can be comparable when you factor in the lower cost of parking, the elimination of the Philadelphia city wage tax, and the better value per square foot in housing. You also get access to excellent schools, safer neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor recreation. The best towns for Philadelphia transplants include Collingswood, Haddonfield, Cherry Hill, and Moorestown. Each offers different tradeoffs in terms of walkability, school quality, and home prices.
Bob's Advice
Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent
I have helped dozens of families make the move from Philadelphia to South Jersey. The most common question I get is, which town feels most like the city? Collingswood and Haddonfield both offer walkable downtowns with restaurants and shops, plus PATCO access. If you want more space and great schools, Moorestown and Mount Laurel are excellent choices. Let us talk about what you love about Philadelphia and find a South Jersey town that gives you the best of both worlds.
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