Pros and Cons of Living in Cherry Hill NJ: Is It Right for You in 2026?
Quick Answer
Is Cherry Hill right for you? Cherry Hill is one of South Jersey's premier communities, offering an unbeatable combination of top-tier schools, massive retail centers, excellent healthcare, and immediate access to Philadelphia. However, buyers must be prepared for higher property taxes, busier roads, and a highly competitive housing market. It's the perfect fit for those who want suburban living with urban conveniences right at their doorstep.
Why So Many People Consider Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill is consistently one of the most searched-for real estate markets in South Jersey. Located in Camden County, it serves as the commercial and cultural hub of the region. But what drives thousands of families, professionals, and retirees to look for homes here every year?
- Location: Just minutes from Philadelphia via the Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross bridges.
- Schools: The Cherry Hill Public School district is renowned for academic excellence.
- Shopping: Home to the iconic Cherry Hill Mall and endless retail corridors.
- Employment Access: Proximity to major corporate centers and healthcare systems.
- Lifestyle: A vibrant mix of quiet residential neighborhoods and bustling commercial districts.
Pros of Living in Cherry Hill NJ
"Cherry Hill combines suburban living with urban convenience better than almost any community in South Jersey."
Excellent Location
Cherry Hill's geography is undeniably its biggest asset. Situated directly east of Philadelphia, it offers unparalleled access to the city via the Ben Franklin Bridge and Betsy Ross Bridge. For professionals working in Center City, the commute is often less than 20 minutes outside of peak rush hour. Beyond Philadelphia, Cherry Hill is bisected by major regional arteries including Route 70, Route 38, Interstate 295, and the New Jersey Turnpike. This strategic positioning means residents can easily reach Princeton, Trenton, or the Jersey Shore (Ocean City, LBI, Avalon) in about an hour. It's the ultimate hub-and-spoke location for South Jersey living.
Strong School System
For many families, the Cherry Hill Public School system is the primary reason for relocating here. The district serves over 11,000 students and features two main high schools: Cherry Hill High School East and Cherry Hill High School West. Cherry Hill East, in particular, consistently ranks among the top public high schools in the state of New Jersey, boasting exceptional graduation rates, extensive Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings, and highly competitive athletics and arts programs. The elementary and middle schools feeding into these high schools are equally well-regarded, providing a solid educational foundation that drives consistent demand for housing in the district.
Shopping and Dining
If you love having immediate access to retail and restaurants, Cherry Hill is unmatched in South Jersey. The township is anchored by the iconic Cherry Hill Mall, one of the first enclosed shopping malls in the country, which today features high-end retailers like Nordstrom, Apple, and Zara. Just down the road, the Garden State Park development offers a massive outdoor retail experience with stores like Wegmans, Trader Joe's, Home Depot, and Costco. Dining options range from upscale steakhouses like The Capital Grille to beloved local diners, authentic international cuisine, and cozy neighborhood pubs. You rarely, if ever, need to leave town to find what you're looking for.
Healthcare Access
Healthcare infrastructure in Cherry Hill is world-class. The township is home to Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital, which has seen massive recent investments and expansions. Additionally, major regional providers like Penn Medicine, Cooper University Health Care, and Virtua Health operate extensive outpatient facilities, urgent care centers, and specialist offices throughout the town. For retirees, growing families, and medical professionals, this immediate access to top-tier healthcare is a massive quality-of-life benefit.
Housing Variety
Unlike newer planned communities that consist entirely of identical subdivisions, Cherry Hill offers an incredible diversity of housing stock. You can find historic farmhouses, classic mid-century split-levels, sprawling 1980s colonials, low-maintenance townhomes, and multi-million dollar luxury estates. This variety means Cherry Hill can accommodate a wide range of budgets and lifestyle preferences, from first-time buyers looking for a starter home to executives seeking premium, private properties.
Strong Property Values
Real estate in Cherry Hill is widely considered a blue-chip investment within the South Jersey market. Thanks to the perpetual demand driven by the school system and the location, property values here have historically remained very stable, even during broader economic downturns. Homes in highly desirable neighborhoods, particularly those zoned for Cherry Hill East, often see strong appreciation and command premium pricing, giving homeowners confidence in their long-term investment.
Diverse Community
Cherry Hill is one of the most culturally and demographically diverse communities in Burlington and Camden Counties. This diversity is reflected in the township's vibrant array of international restaurants, specialty grocery stores, cultural festivals, and community organizations. For families, this provides an enriching environment where children grow up exposed to a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives.
Commuter Convenience
Beyond highway access, Cherry Hill offers fantastic public transportation options. The Woodcrest PATCO high-speed line station is located right on the edge of town, providing a stress-free, 20-minute train ride directly into Center City Philadelphia. Additionally, the Cherry Hill NJ Transit station connects riders to the Atlantic City Line and the Northeast Corridor, making trips to New York City or the Jersey Shore highly accessible without a car.
Cons of Living in Cherry Hill NJ
While the benefits are numerous, living in a major regional hub comes with tradeoffs.
Higher Housing Costs
The desirability of Cherry Hill comes with a price tag. Particularly in the highly sought-after Cherry Hill East district and luxury neighborhoods like Springdale or Short Hills, home prices command a significant premium compared to national and regional averages. For first-time homebuyers or those on a strict budget, breaking into the Cherry Hill market can be challenging, often requiring compromises on home size or condition.
Property Taxes
Like much of New Jersey, property taxes in Cherry Hill are high. Supporting a massive, top-tier school district and extensive township services requires significant tax revenue. For buyers moving from out of state, the property tax bill can be a case of sticker shock. It's crucial to factor these taxes into your monthly carrying costs when determining affordability.
Traffic Congestion
Because Cherry Hill is a regional retail and commercial hub, traffic is a reality of daily life. Major arteries like Route 38, Route 70, Haddonfield Road, and Kings Highway experience heavy congestion, especially during morning and evening rush hours, and particularly around the Cherry Hill Mall during the holiday shopping season. If you prefer quiet country roads, the traffic volume here may be frustrating.
Competitive Housing Market
Desirable homes in Cherry Hill—especially updated properties zoned for top schools—rarely sit on the market. They often see multiple offers, waived contingencies, and sell very quickly. Buyers need to be pre-approved, aggressive, and well-prepared to act fast. This highly competitive environment can be stressful for buyers who prefer to take their time making decisions.
Busier Lifestyle Than Smaller Suburbs
Cherry Hill is a bustling, energetic township of over 70,000 residents. If you're looking for a sleepy, quiet, rural-suburban town where nothing happens after 8 PM, Cherry Hill's fast-paced environment might feel overwhelming. It lacks a traditional, quaint, walkable "Main Street" (like you might find in Moorestown or Haddonfield), substituting it instead with massive commercial corridors.
Cost of Living Considerations
Understanding the true cost of living in Cherry Hill requires looking beyond just the mortgage payment. You are paying for premium access, top-tier schools, and extensive municipal services.
- Housing: Prices vary wildly depending on the neighborhood. The West side generally offers more affordable, entry-level homes, while the East side features premium pricing, particularly in luxury enclaves like Short Hills.
- Taxes: Expect property taxes to be a significant portion of your monthly housing expense. While high, many residents view this as a worthwhile tradeoff for the quality of the public school system, which saves them from paying private school tuition.
- Utilities: Standard for the South Jersey region. However, because Cherry Hill has a large inventory of mid-century homes, buyers should factor in potential costs for updating HVAC systems or improving insulation for energy efficiency.
- Daily Expenses: While basic necessities like groceries and gas are standard, the sheer abundance of high-end dining, retail shopping, and entertainment options right in your backyard can easily lead to higher discretionary spending.
Best Neighborhoods in Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill is vast, and choosing the right neighborhood is critical to your experience.
- Barclay Farm: Famous for its historic charm, mature trees, and strong community association.
- Short Hills: An upscale, established neighborhood on the East side featuring beautiful luxury homes.
- Wilderness Acres: Perfect for those seeking privacy, featuring heavily wooded, larger lots.
- Cherry Hill East Area: Highly coveted for its direct access to the acclaimed Cherry Hill East High School.
- Old Orchard: A lovely, established neighborhood that offers great walkability and community feel.
Read our complete guide to the Best Neighborhoods in Cherry Hill NJ (Coming Soon)
Who Should Live in Cherry Hill?
Families
Families who prioritize top-tier public education, diverse extracurricular activities, and proximity to parks and youth sports will find Cherry Hill to be an exceptional environment to raise children. The school district's reputation alone is often the deciding factor.
Professionals
Those working in healthcare, corporate sectors, or in Center City Philadelphia who want a sophisticated suburban lifestyle without a grueling commute. The access to major highways and PATCO makes getting to the office seamless.
Commuters
Anyone who needs fast, reliable access to Philadelphia, Trenton, or even New York City. Cherry Hill's infrastructure is built to move people efficiently across the region.
Retirees
Active adults who want immediate access to excellent healthcare systems (Jefferson, Penn Medicine), endless shopping, and diverse dining, all without sacrificing the comfort of a suburban home or condo.
Luxury Buyers
Buyers looking for sprawling, custom estates in established, prestigious neighborhoods like Short Hills or Springdale, where mature landscaping and architectural character are already in place.
Downsizers
Homeowners looking to move out of large family homes into low-maintenance condos, townhomes, or active adult communities while keeping urban amenities and healthcare facilities close by.
Who Might Prefer Another Community?
If Cherry Hill's bustling energy isn't for you, Burlington County offers excellent alternatives:
| Alternative Town | Why Choose It Over Cherry Hill? |
|---|---|
| Marlton | Quieter, more planned suburban feel with slightly less traffic congestion. |
| Mount Laurel | Often more affordable, highly commuter-friendly, with diverse housing options. |
| Moorestown | Offers a historic, walkable Main Street and a more traditional small-town charm. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cherry Hill NJ a good place to live?
Yes, Cherry Hill is widely considered one of the best places to live in New Jersey, offering excellent schools, amenities, and proximity to Philadelphia.
Is Cherry Hill expensive?
It can be, particularly in the East side neighborhoods. However, it offers a wider range of price points than some neighboring luxury towns.
How are the schools in Cherry Hill?
The Cherry Hill Public School district is highly rated, with Cherry Hill East frequently ranking among the state's top high schools.
Is Cherry Hill safe?
Yes, Cherry Hill is generally considered a safe, family-friendly suburban community with a strong local police presence.
How far is Cherry Hill from Philadelphia?
Depending on traffic and your exact location, it's typically a 15 to 25-minute drive into Center City.
Does Cherry Hill have a downtown?
No, Cherry Hill does not have a traditional walkable Main Street; it is characterized by large retail corridors and shopping centers.
What is the property tax rate in Cherry Hill?
Property taxes are high, consistent with New Jersey averages, but they fund an extensive school system and township services.
Is Cherry Hill walkable?
Overall, it is car-dependent, though specific neighborhoods (like Barclay Farm) are very walkable internally.
What is the difference between Cherry Hill East and West?
They are the two main high school zones. East is generally more affluent and commands higher home prices, while West offers more affordable housing options.
Are there good restaurants in Cherry Hill?
Absolutely. Cherry Hill is a dining destination, offering everything from high-end steakhouses to diverse international cuisine.
Does PATCO go to Cherry Hill?
While the Woodcrest station is technically in Cherry Hill, several other stations (Haddonfield, Collingswood) are just minutes away.
Is Cherry Hill good for retirees?
Yes, many retirees appreciate the immediate access to top-tier healthcare, shopping, and diverse housing options like condos.
What is the weather like in Cherry Hill?
It experiences all four seasons: hot, humid summers, crisp autumns, cold winters with occasional snow, and pleasant springs.
How far is Cherry Hill from the Jersey Shore?
It's about a 60 to 75-minute drive to popular shore towns like Ocean City or Long Beach Island.
What is the Cherry Hill Mall?
It is one of the largest and most upscale enclosed shopping malls in the Philadelphia metropolitan area.
Are there parks in Cherry Hill?
Yes, the township maintains over 50 public parks, including Challenge Grove and the historic Barclay Farmstead.
Is it a good place for young professionals?
Yes, the proximity to Philly, abundant nightlife/dining, and transit options make it very popular for young professionals.
How competitive is the housing market?
Very competitive. Well-priced homes in good school zones often sell quickly with multiple offers.
What county is Cherry Hill in?
Cherry Hill is located in Camden County.
Should I choose Cherry Hill or Marlton?
Choose Cherry Hill for urban-suburban energy and amenities; choose Marlton for a quieter, planned-neighborhood feel.
Related Resources
Robert Millaway
AI Certified Agent™ | South Jersey Relocation Specialist
Robert Millaway helps buyers, sellers, retirees, downsizers, and relocating families make smarter real estate decisions throughout Burlington and Camden Counties.