Burlington County Vs Camden County: Which Is Better For Your Next Home?

If you have ever searched "Is Mount Laurel, NJ a good place to live?" at 2 a.m. while scrolling through Zillow listings, you are not alone. That question leads to a bigger one: Should I buy in Burlington County or Camden County?

Both South Jersey counties sit within easy reach of Philadelphia. Both offer fantastic schools, tight-knit communities, and that unmistakable Jersey charm. But they are not the same. Picking the right one depends on what you value most: open green spaces or walkable downtowns? Newer developments or historic character? A shorter commute or a bigger backyard?

Let's break it all down so you can find the county that fits your lifestyle like a glove.

The Tale of Two Counties

Think of Burlington and Camden Counties as siblings with very different personalities.

Burlington County is the quiet, nature-loving sibling. It is the largest county in New Jersey by land area, which means room to breathe. You will find sprawling parks, tree-lined neighborhoods, and newer housing developments. Towns like Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and Evesham consistently rank among the best large towns in New Jersey. Mount Laurel alone landed at number nine on recent statewide rankings, and Evesham claimed the twelfth spot.

Camden County is the social butterfly. It offers urban-adjacent living with historic charm and walkable downtowns. Towns like Haddonfield and Collingswood have become destination neighborhoods, complete with boutique shopping, farm-to-table restaurants, and vibrant arts scenes. Cherry Hill, one of the county's largest municipalities, ranked sixteenth among the best large towns in NJ.

Property Taxes and Home Prices: The Numbers That Matter

Let's talk dollars and cents because your budget will play a big role in this decision.

As of early 2026, Camden County has a higher median home price at approximately $475,000. Burlington County comes in slightly more affordable at around $440,000. Both counties experienced identical countywide price appreciation of 8.4% from 2022 to 2023, and projections for 2025 to 2026 estimate continued growth of 3% to 5%.

Property taxes in New Jersey are famously high across the board, but they vary by municipality. Generally speaking, Burlington County towns tend to offer slightly lower tax rates compared to their Camden County counterparts. However, this is not a hard rule. Some Camden County towns with strong commercial bases offset residential tax burdens quite well.

The bottom line? If stretching your dollar further is a priority, Burlington County may give you more square footage for your money.

Schools: A+ Options in Both Counties

Good news for families: You cannot go wrong in either county when it comes to education.

Both Burlington and Camden Counties boast strong public school districts. Moorestown, Mount Laurel, and Medford in Burlington County consistently earn high marks. Over in Camden County, Haddonfield and Cherry Hill school districts are perennial favorites.

Private and parochial school options abound in both counties as well, giving families flexibility no matter where they land.

Commute to Philly: How Fast Can You Get There?

If you work in Philadelphia, your daily commute will be a major factor.

Camden County wins this round. The PATCO Speedline runs directly from Lindenwold through Haddonfield, Collingswood, and into Center City Philadelphia. Door-to-door commutes can clock in at 20 to 30 minutes. Plus, major highways like I-76 and I-295 make driving into the city relatively painless.

Burlington County requires a longer commute of 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your starting point. There is no direct rail line into Philly, so you are looking at car commutes or connecting via NJ Transit buses and trains.

If a quick, transit-friendly commute is non-negotiable, Camden County is your pick.

The Vibe Check: What Does Daily Life Feel Like?

Here is where things get personal.

Burlington County: Space, Serenity, and Suburban Comfort

Burlington County is ideal if you crave open space. The county is home to massive parks, nature preserves, and the Pinelands National Reserve. Weekend activities often include hiking, biking, and exploring farmers' markets.

Housing stock skews toward newer developments with modern amenities. Think open floor plans, two-car garages, and cul-de-sac streets where kids ride bikes until sunset. Towns like Mount Laurel and Marlton offer excellent shopping, dining, and healthcare facilities without the urban density.

Camden County: Historic Charm and Walkable Living

Camden County delivers a different energy. Walkable downtowns are the star attraction here. Haddonfield's Kings Highway is lined with locally owned shops and eateries. Collingswood's Haddon Avenue hosts a beloved farmers market and restaurant scene that punches well above its weight.

If you want to grab coffee, browse a bookstore, and catch a live music show all without getting in your car, Camden County towns make that possible.

Looking for Haddonfield homes for sale? It is one of the most sought-after markets in South Jersey for good reason.

Safety Considerations

Safety matters, and the data is worth noting.

Burlington County has a lower violent crime rate at 34.96 per 10,000 individuals compared to Camden County's rate of 64.01 per 10,000. This does not mean Camden County is unsafe. Crime rates vary significantly by municipality. Towns like Haddonfield and Cherry Hill maintain very low crime rates, while other areas may skew the countywide average.

Always research specific towns and neighborhoods when making your decision.

Burlington County Vs Camden County: Quick Comparison

How AI-Powered Insights Help You Choose

Choosing between two great counties can feel overwhelming. That is where technology makes a real difference.

As an AI Certified Agent™, I use AI-powered tools and data insights to help buyers identify the right community based on their unique priorities. Whether you value school rankings, commute times, walkability scores, or future appreciation potential, AI helps us analyze the data and present options that truly match your lifestyle.

This is not about replacing the personal touch. It is about combining local expertise with cutting-edge technology so you make the most informed decision possible.

Ready to explore your options? Check out our AI Home Buying Guide to see how we simplify the search process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mount Laurel, NJ, a good place to live?
Absolutely. Mount Laurel consistently ranks among the best large towns in New Jersey. It offers excellent schools, abundant green space, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shopping and dining. It is a top choice for families and professionals alike.

Which county has lower property taxes?
Generally, Burlington County tends to have slightly lower property tax rates compared to Camden County. However, rates vary by municipality, so always research specific towns.

Is Camden County safe?
Safety varies by town. Municipalities like Haddonfield and Cherry Hill maintain very low crime rates. Always research specific neighborhoods before making a decision.

Which county is better for commuting to Philadelphia?
Camden County offers a shorter commute thanks to the PATCO Speedline and direct highway access. If you work in Center City, Camden County is the more convenient choice.

Are schools good in both counties?
Yes. Both Burlington and Camden Counties have highly rated public school districts, including Moorestown, Mount Laurel, Cherry Hill, and Haddonfield.

Final Thoughts

So, which county is better for your next home?

If you prioritize space, newer homes, lower crime rates, and access to nature, Burlington County is calling your name.

If you crave walkable downtowns, historic charm, a shorter Philly commute, and vibrant local culture, Camden County is where you belong.

The good news? You really cannot go wrong with either choice. Both counties offer incredible communities, strong schools, and that welcoming South Jersey lifestyle.

The key is knowing what matters most to you. And if you need help figuring that out, I am here to guide you every step of the way.

Start your home search today, and let's find the neighborhood that fits your life perfectly.