Why Pennsauken
What Is Pennsauken Like?
Pennsauken is a diverse and affordable township in Camden County, South Jersey, known for its convenient location along the Delaware River and one of the shortest commutes to Philadelphia. The township spans approximately 12 square miles along the Delaware River, providing residents with easy access to the city while maintaining a suburban feel and a more reasonable cost of living than many neighboring communities.
Pennsauken has a fascinating history. It is home to America's first drive-in movie theater, which opened in 1933 as the Camden Drive-In and screened the comedy "Wives Beware." The township is also home to Petty's Island, a 392-acre island in the Delaware River that was once an oil storage facility and is now being transitioned into a new state park.
Today, Pennsauken is one of the most diverse communities in Camden County, with a population of approximately 35,900. The township includes the neighborhoods of Delair, Dudley, and Hillcrest, each with its own character. Major employers in the area include a Pepsi bottling plant and the J&J Snack Foods headquarters.
Lifestyle
Living in Pennsauken
Life in Pennsauken is defined by convenience and community. The township's location along the Delaware River provides beautiful water views and easy access to Philadelphia. The Pennsauken Marina is a popular spot for boaters, and the riverfront offers a peaceful escape from the busy highway corridors nearby.
Pennsauken is well served by parks and recreation facilities. The Pennsauken Recreation Department maintains multiple parks, sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails throughout town. The Pennsauken Community Center hosts programs and events for residents of all ages. The historic Griffith Morgan House, a colonial-era farmhouse, offers a glimpse into the township's early history.
The township is known for its cultural diversity, which is reflected in the range of restaurants, shops, and community events. You will find everything from authentic Mexican and Vietnamese cuisine to classic South Jersey pizza and cheesesteaks. Pennsauken hosts community events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, concerts in the park, and programs at the community center.
Nearby Communities
Explore Neighboring Towns
Pennsauken is centrally located in Camden County, close to several other excellent communities.
Cherry Hill
The largest municipality in Camden County, known for premier shopping and dining, excellent schools, and PATCO access. A popular move-up destination for Pennsauken residents.
ExploreCollingswood
Walkable downtown with a celebrated dining scene, PATCO access, and a vibrant arts community. A short drive from Pennsauken with a very different character.
ExploreHaddonfield
Historic borough with a charming downtown, top-ranked schools, and a 15-minute PATCO commute to Philadelphia. Minutes from Pennsauken.
ExploreEducation
Pennsauken Schools
The Pennsauken Public Schools district serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, operating 10 schools and serving approximately 4,900 students. The district offers a range of academic programs, special education services, and extracurricular activities designed to meet the needs of a diverse student body.
Pennsauken High School offers a variety of academic tracks, including Advanced Placement courses, vocational programs, and college preparatory curricula. The school fields competitive athletic teams across multiple sports and has active arts and music programs.
For families seeking private or parochial education options, several schools are within a short drive of Pennsauken, including Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in nearby Pennsauken proper, Holy Cross Academy in Delran, and other religious and independent schools throughout Camden County.
Commute
Commute Times from Pennsauken
Pennsauken's location directly across the Delaware River from Philadelphia makes it one of the most commuter-friendly towns in Camden County. Major highways and transit options provide quick access to the city and the broader region.
10-15 min
To Center City Philadelphia by car
15-20 min
To Philadelphia International Airport
75-90 min
To New York City
Pennsauken is served by NJ Transit bus routes, including Route 400, which travels to Center City Philadelphia with stops along the Black Horse Pike. The PATCO Speedline is accessible from nearby stations in Cherry Hill and Collingswood, providing rail service to Philadelphia in about 15-20 minutes. The Betsy Ross Bridge and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge both connect Pennsauken directly to Philadelphia, making the drive across the river remarkably quick for a commuter.
Market Insights
The Pennsauken Real Estate Market
Pennsauken offers one of the more affordable real estate markets in Camden County, making it an attractive option for first-time homebuyers, investors, and families looking for more space without the premium prices of nearby Cherry Hill or Haddonfield.
The housing stock in Pennsauken is diverse and well-suited to a range of budgets. You will find classic post-war ranches and Cape Cods, older colonials, rowhomes in the Delair neighborhood, and newer townhome developments. Price points typically range from the mid-$200,000s for fixer-uppers and smaller homes to the mid-$400,000s for larger, updated properties. This makes Pennsauken one of the most accessible markets for buyers who want to be close to Philadelphia without the high price tag.
With 20 years in the market and more than 600 homes sold across South Jersey, I have helped many families buy and sell in Pennsauken. Whether you are a first-time buyer looking for an affordable entry point or a seller wanting to maximize your home's value, I can guide you through every step.
636+
Homes Sold
$89M+
Career Sales Volume
20
Years of Experience
Things to Do
Things to Do in Pennsauken
Pennsauken offers a mix of outdoor recreation, local dining, and easy access to the attractions of Philadelphia and the rest of Camden County.
Delaware River & Petty's Island
The Pennsauken Marina offers boat slips and river access. Petty's Island, a 392-acre island in the Delaware River, is being transitioned into a new state park that will provide public access to one of the most unique natural spaces in the region.
Parks & Recreation
The Pennsauken Recreation Department maintains multiple parks, sports fields, and playgrounds throughout the township. The community center hosts programs for all ages. The historic Griffith Morgan House offers a connection to Pennsauken's colonial past.
Dining & Entertainment
Pennsauken's diversity is reflected in its dining scene, with authentic Mexican, Vietnamese, and Italian restaurants alongside classic South Jersey pizza and deli spots. The town is also minutes from the Cherry Hill Mall, the Adventure Aquarium in Camden, and all the attractions of Philadelphia.
Why People Choose Pennsauken
Why People Choose to Live in Pennsauken
People choose Pennsauken primarily for its affordability and location. It offers one of the most accessible price points in Camden County for buyers who want to be close to Philadelphia. The commute across the Betsy Ross or Benjamin Franklin Bridge is hard to beat, and the diversity of the community is a draw for families who want their children to grow up in a multicultural environment.
Pennsauken is an especially smart choice for first-time homebuyers who may feel priced out of other Camden County towns. The lower price point allows buyers to enter the market, build equity, and eventually move up when they are ready. It is also a strong market for real estate investors looking for rental properties with solid appreciation potential.
Whether you are buying your first home, investing in a rental property, or downsizing from a larger home in a more expensive town, Pennsauken offers genuine value without sacrificing convenience.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsauken
How affordable is Pennsauken compared to nearby towns?
Pennsauken is one of the more affordable communities in Camden County, with home prices typically ranging from the mid-$200,000s to the mid-$400,000s. This is significantly lower than nearby Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, or Collingswood, making it a popular choice for first-time buyers and investors.
What is the commute like from Pennsauken to Philadelphia?
The commute from Pennsauken to Center City Philadelphia is one of the shortest in South Jersey, typically 10-15 minutes by car via the Betsy Ross or Benjamin Franklin Bridge. NJ Transit bus routes also serve the area, and PATCO stations are a short drive away. Philadelphia International Airport is about 15-20 minutes from Pennsauken.
What types of homes are available in Pennsauken?
Pennsauken offers a diverse range of housing. You will find post-war ranches and Cape Cods, older colonials, rowhomes in the Delair neighborhood, and newer townhome developments. The housing stock is well-suited to first-time buyers, growing families, and investors alike.
What is Pennsauken known for?
Pennsauken is known for being the site of America's first drive-in movie theater, which opened in 1933. It is also home to Petty's Island, a 392-acre island in the Delaware River that is being developed into a new state park. The township is one of the most diverse communities in Camden County.
Is Pennsauken a good place for first-time homebuyers?
Yes. Pennsauken is an excellent choice for first-time homebuyers thanks to its affordable price points, convenient location near Philadelphia, and diverse housing options. Many first-time buyers start here, build equity, and move up to larger homes in the area when they are ready.
Meet Your Agent
Bob Millaway | Redfin Senior Agent
With 20 years of experience, over 600 homes sold, and more than $89 million in career sales, I know Pennsauken and Camden County inside and out. I have helped many families find affordable homes in this community, and I combine deep local expertise with the most advanced technology available to give my clients an unfair advantage in the market.
My approach is built on education, honesty, and guidance. My role is not to pressure you into a decision. It is to give you the information, perspective, and support you need to make the right choice for your family.
Ready to Make Your Move in Pennsauken?
Whether you are buying, selling, or just getting to know Pennsauken, I can help you navigate the market with confidence. No pressure. No obligation. Just honest guidance.
856.347.2002 | bob.millaway@redfin.com | NJ Lic. #791082