Living in Cherry Hill NJ: The Complete Guide

Cherry Hill is a family-friendly South Jersey suburb with top-rated schools, a 20-minute PATCO commute to Philadelphia, and a diverse housing market spanning mid-century ranches to luxury estates, making it one of the best places to live in Camden County for families and professionals. With a population of nearly 79,000, it offers the amenities of a major suburban hub while maintaining the character of established, family-friendly neighborhoods.

What sets Cherry Hill apart is the combination of highly rated schools, exceptional shopping and dining, and a commute to Philadelphia that rivals any suburb in the region. Whether you are raising a family, starting a career, or looking for the right place to settle down, Cherry Hill has something to offer.

This guide covers everything you need to know about living in Cherry Hill, from the real estate market and schools to the lifestyle and local attractions. For a deeper look at specific neighborhoods, read our Best Neighborhoods in Cherry Hill guide.

What Is Cherry Hill Like?

Cherry Hill Township is located in Camden County, about 15 minutes from Center City Philadelphia. It is the most populous municipality in South Jersey, with a diverse population and a wide range of housing options. The township was originally formed as Delaware Township in 1844 and was renamed Cherry Hill in 1961 after the Cherry Hill Farm that once occupied the area.

Today, Cherry Hill is best known for the Cherry Hill Mall, one of the first enclosed shopping malls on the East Coast, and the thriving retail corridor along Route 38. But the town is also home to more than 50 parks, historic sites like Croft Farm and the Barclay Farmstead, and a nationally recognized school district.

What Is the Lifestyle Like in Cherry Hill?

Cherry Hill offers a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences. The town is large enough to provide endless options for shopping, dining, and entertainment, but the individual neighborhoods retain a strong sense of community. From the mid-century ranches of Kingston Estates to the luxury estates in the eastern part of town, each area has its own character and charm.

The community is diverse and welcoming, with active civic organizations, sports leagues, and cultural events throughout the year. The township's parks system is exceptional, with Laurel Acres Park, Challenge Grove Park, and Croft Farm all offering recreational opportunities for families.

For a full picture of the lifestyle advantages and trade-offs, see our Pros and Cons of Living in Cherry Hill.

Does Cherry Hill Have a Downtown?

Cherry Hill does not have a traditional walkable downtown like some of its neighbors. Instead, the commercial heart of the town is the Route 38 corridor, anchored by the Cherry Hill Mall. The mall features major department stores, boutique retailers, and a diverse food court. The surrounding area offers everything from big-box retailers to unique local shops.

The Marketplace at Garden State Park, built on the site of the former Garden State Park racetrack, adds even more dining and shopping options, including popular restaurants, a movie theater, and entertainment venues. The Cherry Hill area has one of the highest concentrations of dining options in South Jersey, with cuisine ranging from Italian and Japanese to Mexican and classic American.

How Are the Schools in Cherry Hill?

The Cherry Hill Public School District is one of the largest and most respected in New Jersey. Niche gives the district an overall grade of A-, and it serves approximately 10,600 students across 20 public schools, including 12 elementary schools, three middle schools, and two comprehensive high schools.

Joseph D. Sharp Elementary School is ranked among the top elementary schools in New Jersey. Both Cherry Hill High School East and Cherry Hill High School West offer strong Advanced Placement programs, award-winning performing arts, and competitive athletics. The district's graduation rate is approximately 94%, and students regularly gain admission to top colleges and universities nationwide.

Private school options include Paul VI High School, Brookfield Academy, and Resurrection Catholic School, providing additional educational choices for families.

How Is the Commute from Cherry Hill?

Cherry Hill is one of the most commuter-friendly towns in South Jersey. The PATCO Speedline has multiple stations in town, including the Cherry Hill and Ashland stations, providing direct rail service to Center City Philadelphia in about 20 to 25 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and PATCO operates 24 hours a day on weekends.

For drivers, I-295 and Route 38 provide quick access to Philadelphia in about 15 to 20 minutes. The New Jersey Turnpike is also easily accessible, offering a direct route to New York City in about 90 minutes. Philadelphia International Airport is approximately 20 minutes away.

What Is the Housing Market Like in Cherry Hill?

Cherry Hill's real estate market is one of the most active in Camden County. The housing stock is remarkably diverse, reflecting the town's growth over several decades. You will find mid-century ranches and split-levels in the post-war neighborhoods, classic colonials in established areas, luxury estates on larger lots in the eastern part of town, and modern townhomes and condos for buyers seeking lower-maintenance living.

The median home price in Cherry Hill is approximately $450,000 to $495,000, depending on the neighborhood and property type. Median household income is around $121,000, and average annual property taxes are approximately $9,874. The combination of strong schools, convenient location, and diverse housing creates consistent demand from buyers across the region.

For a detailed breakdown of the costs, read our Cost of Living in Cherry Hill guide.

What Is There to Do in Cherry Hill?

Cherry Hill offers an impressive variety of activities for residents of all ages:

• Shopping and Dining: The Cherry Hill Mall and Route 38 corridor offer an unparalleled selection. The Marketplace at Garden State Park adds even more dining and entertainment options.
• Parks and Recreation: The township maintains more than 50 parks. Challenge Grove Park has playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. Laurel Acres Park features a fishing lake. Croft Farm, dating to 1753, serves as an arts center. The Barclay Farmstead operates as a museum and event venue.
• Family Attractions: The Garden State Discovery Museum offers interactive exhibits for children. Jake's Place is a beloved inclusive playground. The Funplex provides family entertainment with bowling, arcade games, and rides.
• Nearby Attractions: Cooper River Park offers kayaking, biking, and walking trails. Philadelphia is minutes away, providing world-class museums, restaurants, sports, and cultural attractions.

Is Cherry Hill Good for Families?

People choose Cherry Hill for the combination of excellent schools, convenient commute, and unmatched amenities. It is a town where families can find a range of housing options, from starter homes to forever homes, within a community that values education, diversity, and quality of life.

The median household income of approximately $121,000 reflects the professional workforce that lives here, and the town's stability is reinforced by generations of families who have made Cherry Hill their home. For a closer look at the trade-offs involved in moving here, check out the Pros and Cons of Living in Cherry Hill.

For comprehensive information about the community, visit the Cherry Hill Community Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions