Burlington County, New Jersey offers first-time buyers an exceptional combination of affordable home prices, top-rated schools, convenient commutes to Philadelphia and New York, and a quality of life that is hard to match. With a median home price around $375,000 and down payment assistance programs available, homeownership is more attainable here than in most other parts of the New Jersey-Philadelphia region. I have helped over 636 families buy homes in this county, and this guide gives you everything you need to start your search with confidence.
Burlington County stretches from the Delaware River in the west to the Pine Barrens in the east, encompassing more than 40 communities each with its own personality. Whether you are looking for a historic downtown like Moorestown, a lakeside community like Medford Lakes, or a commuter-friendly town like Mount Laurel, Burlington County has options for every lifestyle and budget.
This guide is designed specifically for first-time buyers. It covers the towns that offer the best value, the schools you should know about, how to navigate the commute to Philadelphia and other employment centers, current market conditions, and the financing programs that can help you get into your first home.
Why Choose Burlington County for Your First Home?
Burlington County consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in New Jersey for several reasons:
- Affordable home prices: The median home price in Burlington County is approximately $375,000, significantly lower than nearby counties like Mercer ($425,000) and Camden ($390,000), and dramatically lower than Bergen ($600,000+) or Essex ($500,000+).
- Excellent schools: Multiple school districts in the county are consistently ranked among the top in New Jersey, including Moorestown, Medford, Mount Laurel, Lenape Regional, and Evesham.
- Convenient location: Burlington County offers easy access to Route 295, the New Jersey Turnpike, and the PATCO Speedline, making commutes to Philadelphia straightforward. Many towns also have NJ Transit rail stations.
- Quality of life: The county offers abundant parks, open space, and community events. The Pine Barrens provide hiking, kayaking, and outdoor recreation just minutes from suburban neighborhoods.
- Low county tax rate: Burlington County has the lowest county-level property tax in New Jersey for the seventh consecutive year, helping keep overall housing costs more manageable.
What Are the Best Towns for First-Time Buyers in Burlington County?
Every buyer has different priorities, but these towns are particularly well-suited for first-time buyers based on price, amenities, and accessibility:
Mount Laurel
Mount Laurel is one of the most popular choices for first-time buyers in Burlington County. With a median home price around $385,000 to $430,000, it offers excellent value compared to neighboring towns. The school system is well-regarded, and the location provides easy access to Routes 70, 38, and 295, as well as the Moorestown Mall and countless shopping and dining options.
Housing options range from townhomes and condos ideal for first-time buyers to single-family homes on quarter-acre lots. The diverse inventory means you can start with a more affordable townhome and move up as your needs grow. See our Mount Laurel living guide for a deeper look.
Marlton (Evesham Township)
Marlton offers a blend of excellent schools, a strong sense of community, and a wide range of housing options. Median home prices range from $470,000 to $520,000, making it a step up from Mount Laurel but still accessible for many first-time buyers, especially those with dual incomes.
The Main Street area features local shops and restaurants, and the community hosts events throughout the year. Marlton is also convenient to Routes 73 and 70 for commuting. See our Marlton living guide for more details.
Cinnaminson
Located along the Delaware River, Cinnaminson offers first-time buyers a convenient location near the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge for quick access to Philadelphia. Home prices are generally more moderate than Moorestown or Medford, with a range of housing styles from ranchers and Cape Cods to newer construction.
The school system is solid, and the town has a suburban feel with easy access to the riverfront. For buyers who need to commute to Philadelphia regularly, Cinnaminson is one of the most convenient options in the county. See our Cinnaminson living guide for more.
Delran
Delran sits adjacent to Cinnaminson and offers similar benefits at slightly more affordable price points. The town has seen steady growth and offers a mix of established neighborhoods and newer developments. Delran's location provides easy access to Route 130 and the New Jersey Turnpike.
First-time buyers often find Delran attractive because of its reasonable home prices, good schools, and convenient location. The community is family-friendly with parks, sports leagues, and community events. See our Delran living guide for more.
Burlington Township
Burlington Township offers a suburban environment with strong community services and a growing housing market. Home prices are generally accessible for first-time buyers, and the town provides convenient access to Routes 130, 541, and the New Jersey Turnpike.
The town features several parks, a community center, and an excellent school system. For buyers looking for value and a strong sense of community, Burlington Township is worth a close look. See our Burlington Township living guide for more.
Lumberton and Hainesport
These neighboring towns offer a more rural setting with larger lots while still being close to the amenities of Mount Laurel and Medford. Home prices in Lumberton and Hainesport can be more accessible than in some of the more established towns, making them attractive for first-time buyers who want more space.
Lumberton has a charming town center with local shops and restaurants, while Hainesport offers newer construction neighborhoods and a quieter pace of life. Both towns are served by well-regarded school districts. See our Lumberton guide and Hainesport guide for more details.
How Are the Schools in Burlington County?
Burlington County is home to some of the best school districts in New Jersey. For first-time buyers with children or plans to start a family, school quality is often the most important factor in choosing a town.
Top-rated districts in Burlington County:
- Moorestown Township Public Schools - Consistently ranked among the top 20 districts in New Jersey. Excellent academics, arts, and athletics programs.
- Medford Township School District - Strong elementary and middle schools feeding into Lenape Regional High School, one of the top high schools in the state.
- Mount Laurel Schools - Well-regarded K-8 district with multiple elementary schools feeding into Lenape Regional High School.
- Evesham Township School District - Strong academics with a focus on STEM and the arts, feeding into Cherokee High School.
- Lenape Regional High School District - Serves multiple towns including Mount Laurel, Medford, Shamong, Tabernacle, Southampton, and Evesham. Consistently high rankings.
- Northern Burlington County Regional - Serves Chesterfield, Mansfield, North Hanover, and Springfield. Strong academic reputation.
For more detailed information, see our guides on the best school districts in Burlington County and best schools in South Jersey.
What Is the Commute Like From Burlington County?
Commuting from Burlington County is one of its greatest advantages. The county is strategically located with multiple transportation options:
Driving to Philadelphia:
- Cinnaminson/Delran: 15 to 20 minutes via the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge or Betsy Ross Bridge
- Mount Laurel/Marlton: 25 to 35 minutes via Route 73 to Route 38 or the Ben Franklin Bridge
- Moorestown: 20 to 30 minutes via Route 38 or Route 295 to the Ben Franklin Bridge
- Medford/Lumberton: 35 to 45 minutes via Route 70 or Route 295
Public transit options:
- PATCO Speedline: Stations in Woodcrest (Cherry Hill), Haddonfield, Westmont, Collingswood, and Ferry Avenue provide direct service to Center City Philadelphia in 15 to 25 minutes.
- NJ Transit River LINE: Light rail connecting Trenton through Burlington County, with stations in Bordentown, Burlington City, Riverside, and other river towns.
- NJ Transit buses: Multiple bus routes connect Burlington County towns to Philadelphia and New York.
For first-time buyers who commute to Philadelphia, towns in the western part of Burlington County (Cinnaminson, Delran, Burlington Township) offer the shortest drive times, while those near the PATCO line in nearby Camden County offer excellent rail access. See our guide to the best commuter towns for more detail.
What Are Current Market Conditions for First-Time Buyers?
The Burlington County housing market has remained strong in 2025-2026, with steady demand driven by the county's affordability, quality of life, and proximity to Philadelphia. Here is what first-time buyers should know about the current market:
- Inventory: The market remains somewhat constrained, with desirable homes in top school districts receiving multiple offers. However, inventory has improved compared to the peak shortage of 2021-2022.
- Price trends: Home values have appreciated steadily, approximately 4% to 6% year over year in most Burlington County communities. This makes buying now an opportunity to build equity over time.
- Days on market: Well-priced homes in desirable towns typically sell within 10 to 20 days. Homes that are overpriced may sit for 30 to 60 days before price adjustments.
- Competition: First-time buyers should be prepared to act quickly when they find the right home. Getting pre-approved before starting your search is essential.
- Interest rates: Mortgage rates have stabilized after the increases of 2023-2024 but remain higher than the historic lows of 2020-2021. However, home prices in Burlington County remain more affordable than many surrounding areas, offsetting some of the rate impact.
For a deeper look at current market data, see our Burlington County market report.
How Can First-Time Buyers Afford a Home in Burlington County?
Affordability is one of Burlington County's strongest selling points for first-time buyers. Here is a realistic look at what it takes to buy your first home:
Sample First-Time Buyer Budget (Mount Laurel area)
Includes principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and FHA MIP. Actual payments vary by interest rate and specific property.
If $24,000 in upfront cash feels out of reach, remember that down payment assistance programs can reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly. The NJHMFA program can provide up to $15,000 in forgivable assistance, bringing your required cash down to under $10,000 in many cases. See our down payment assistance guide for complete details.
What Is the First Step for First-Time Buyers in Burlington County?
The best first step is to have a conversation with a local agent who knows Burlington County inside and out. I offer a no-pressure, no-obligation initial consultation where we can talk about your goals, your budget, and the towns that might be the right fit for you.
From there, I will connect you with trusted local lenders who can help you get pre-approved and explore your financing options, including down payment assistance if you qualify. Then we will start looking at homes together, with a clear understanding of what you want and what you can afford.
I have helped hundreds of first-time buyers find their first home in Burlington County. I know the market, the schools, the commute patterns, and the neighborhoods that offer the best value. More importantly, I will never push you into a decision you are not ready for. My approach is built on education, transparency, and honest guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Burlington County a good place for first-time home buyers?
Yes. Burlington County offers some of the best value for first-time buyers in the New Jersey-Philadelphia region. With a median home price around $375,000, excellent schools, convenient commutes, and down payment assistance programs, it is one of the most accessible markets for first-time buyers in the state.
What is the most affordable town for first-time buyers in Burlington County?
Towns like Mount Laurel, Delran, Burlington Township, Willingboro, and Pemberton offer more affordable entry points for first-time buyers. Home prices in these towns are generally lower than Moorestown, Medford, or Marlton while still providing good schools and convenient locations.
How long does it take to buy a first home in Burlington County?
Most first-time buyers take 3 to 6 months from pre-approval to closing. The search phase typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, and the closing process takes 30 to 60 days after offer acceptance. Getting pre-approved before you start looking saves significant time.
How are property taxes in Burlington County?
The average effective property tax rate in Burlington County is approximately 2.56% of assessed home value. The county-level tax is the lowest in New Jersey for the seventh consecutive year. Rates vary by town, so it is important to factor local taxes into your monthly payment calculation.
Should I work with a local buyer's agent for my first home purchase?
Absolutely. A local buyer's agent who knows Burlington County neighborhoods, school districts, market conditions, and local regulations is invaluable for first-time buyers. In most cases, the seller pays the buyer's agent commission, so there is no additional cost to you. I have helped hundreds of families find their first home in this area and know the nuances of every community.
How competitive is the Burlington County housing market for first-time buyers?
Desirable towns like Moorestown, Medford, and Marlton can be competitive for well-priced homes. Being pre-approved, working with an experienced local agent, and being prepared to act quickly gives you a clear advantage. Towns like Mount Laurel, Delran, and Burlington Township tend to have more inventory and less competition.
Ready to Find Your First Home in Burlington County?
Burlington County is an incredible place to buy your first home. The schools are excellent, the communities are welcoming, the commutes are manageable, and the home values offer real opportunity for building equity. I have spent over 20 years helping families find the right home in this area, and I would love to help you too.
My approach is simple: I educate, I guide, and I never pressure. If you are curious about what your first home could look like in Burlington County, I would love to start the conversation.
Bob Millaway
Epique Realty Agent and AI Certified Agent with 20+ years of experience and 636+ homes sold across Burlington County and South Jersey. Licensed NJ Salesperson #791082. Bob combines local expertise, honest guidance, and cutting-edge technology to help buyers and sellers make confident real estate decisions.