New Jersey vs Pennsylvania: The Best Places to Live for Families

Are you caught in the dilemma of choosing between New Jersey vs Pennsylvania for your family's next home? In this blog, we dissect the suburban showdown between Marlton, NJ, and the Philadelphia suburbs of Haverford and Upper Dublin. From housing markets to schools, commuting, and lifestyle amenities, we cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

• Welcome to the South Jersey vs Philadelphia Suburbs Showdown
• Why Compare Marlton NJ, Haverford PA, and Upper Dublin PA?
• Housing Market Overview in Marlton NJ
• Housing Market Overview in Haverford PA and Upper Dublin, PA
• Comparing Property Taxes: NJ vs PA
• Education Systems of Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin
• Commuting and Transportation Options of Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin
• How We Can Help You Move to South Jersey or the Philly Suburbs
• FAQs about Moving to Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin

Welcome to the South Jersey vs Philadelphia Suburbs Showdown

Welcome to the ultimate showdown where we dive deep into the suburban charm of South Jersey and the Philadelphia suburbs! Here, we’ll explore the distinct vibes, amenities, and lifestyles of Marlton, NJ, and its Pennsylvania counterparts, Haverford and Upper Dublin. If you're contemplating a move to the suburbs, this is the perfect place to start your journey.

Why are we focusing on these specific towns? Well, Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin have become synonymous with family-friendly living, offering a blend of community spirit, accessibility, and quality education. Each town brings something unique to the table, making it essential to understand their offerings before making a decision.

Why Compare Marlton NJ, Haverford PA, and Upper Dublin PA?

We chose Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin because they represent the best of what suburban living can offer. These towns are not just about houses; they're about community, education, and lifestyle. Families looking for that perfect suburban blend will find that these towns check all the right boxes.

First and foremost, let’s talk about schools. Strong educational institutions are a top priority for families. Marlton boasts smaller class sizes, which allows for more individualized attention. On the other hand, Upper Dublin and Haverford shine with their state and national rankings, offering specialized programs that cater to advanced academics.

Additionally, the amenities in these towns cater to diverse lifestyles. Whether you’re a fan of outdoor activities, shopping, or dining, there’s something for everyone. Marlton features robust shopping centers along Routes 70 and 73, while Haverford and Upper Dublin offer charming main streets with unique local businesses.

And let’s not forget about commutes! For those looking into Philadelphia commuter suburbs in South Jersey, proximity to the city is a major selling point—especially for families. Marlton stands out by offering a manageable commute into Philly while still giving you that peaceful, suburban retreat. Meanwhile, areas like Haverford and Upper Dublin provide a slightly different vibe, blending historical charm with convenient access to the city, making them equally appealing options for commuters.

Housing Market Overview in Marlton NJ

Let’s dive into the housing market in Marlton, NJ. This town is often regarded as the most affordable option among our trio. The median home value here is around $456,000, which has seen an impressive increase of 88.3% over the last year. The median listing price currently stands at $462,500, with a price per square foot of $238.

What’s particularly appealing about Marlton is its balance. You can find spacious four-bedroom homes without stretching your budget too far. Homes typically sell quickly, often within 1 to 19 days, making it essential to act fast if you find something you love.

Marlton’s community vibe is friendly and welcoming. Neighbors know each other, and there’s a strong sense of belonging. The town is not just residential; it has a variety of shopping options and recreational amenities, making it a great place for families to thrive.

Housing Market Overview in Haverford PA and Upper Dublin, PA

Now, let’s shift our focus to Haverford and Upper Dublin. Haverford embodies the classic Philadelphia suburb vibe with charming, historic homes that boast character and elegance. The median home value here is approximately $413,000, with a median listing price around $495,000. This translates to a price per square foot of $294.

Homes in Haverford tend to take a bit longer to sell, typically around 30 days. This slower pace indicates a competitive market, but it also means you have time to consider your options. The median sale price has increased by 11.5% year-over-year, showing strong demand and potential for equity growth.

Upper Dublin, on the other hand, is known for its polished suburban lifestyle. The median listing price here is $618,000, reflecting a 14.5% increase. Homes sell quickly, often within just 12 days, making it the fastest-paced market of the three. Families looking for upscale living will appreciate the large lots, open floor plans, and premium finishes that Upper Dublin has to offer.

All three towns—Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin—offer solid educational options, but they cater to slightly different priorities. While Upper Dublin and Haverford boast advanced academic programs, Marlton focuses on smaller class sizes and strong extracurricular activities, which can be a deciding factor for many families.

Comparing Property Taxes: NJ vs PA

One of the most significant factors in deciding between New Jersey vs Pennsylvania is undoubtedly property taxes. New Jersey has earned a reputation for high property taxes, and while that holds some truth, the overall affordability can be more nuanced when you compare specific locations like Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin.

In Marlton, the median home price is about $412,000, with an average property tax rate of 2.42%. This translates to roughly $9,970 in annual taxes. On the other hand, Haverford's median home price is higher at approximately $532,000, but Pennsylvania's average tax rate is lower at 1.69%. This means Haverford residents pay around $8,995 annually in property taxes, which is less than Marlton despite the higher home price.

Upper Dublin has an even higher median home price, sitting at $645,000, but maintains the same 1.69% tax rate, leading to approximately $10,900 in taxes. However, this isn’t the complete story. Residents in Haverford and Upper Dublin also face additional local taxes that can add up quickly, such as the Earned Income Tax, which is typically around 1% of your household income, plus a local services tax of $52 annually.

When we consider total housing costs, Marlton may seem more predictable and straightforward due to its higher property tax but lower additional local taxes. It’s essential to weigh these factors when considering your overall budget. For example, the total annual housing cost for a home in Marlton comes to about $38,698. In contrast, a similar home in Haverford totals around $50,463, and in Upper Dublin, it climbs to about $57,200.

Education Systems of Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin

Education is another pivotal factor when comparing Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin. Each community offers distinct educational experiences that can influence your decision. Marlton is served by the Evesham Township School District for K-8, transitioning to Lenape Regional High School District for high school. The schools here are known for their consistent performance, with Cherokee High School boasting a 96.4% graduation rate.

In Haverford, the education system is continuous from K-12, with Haverford Senior High School ranked 36th in Pennsylvania. This district balances academics with extracurricular activities, although class sizes are a bit larger, averaging a 15:1 student-teacher ratio.

Upper Dublin also offers a K-12 system and is ranked 27th in the state. It provides advanced academic opportunities, including gifted education and AP courses, which can be crucial for families focused on preparing their children for higher education. However, it shares the same student-teacher ratio as Haverford, which can impact the level of individualized attention students receive.

In summary, while Marlton offers smaller class sizes that foster personalized learning, Haverford and Upper Dublin stand out due to their higher academic rankings and specialized programs. The right choice will depend on your family’s educational priorities.

Commuting and Transportation Options of Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin

When it comes to commuting and transportation, proximity to Philadelphia is a crucial factor—especially for those exploring Philadelphia commuter suburbs in South Jersey. Marlton, for example, sits just 14.8 miles east of Philly, making for a quick 20-minute drive in light traffic. However, peak hours can bring delays, particularly at bridge crossings, which is something commuters should factor in.

Although not in South Jersey, Haverford is another top choice for Philadelphia-area commuters. Located about 13 miles from the city, it offers a typical drive time of around 28 minutes. With access to major routes and SEPTA train service, residents can also enjoy a stress-free ride into the city in roughly 22 minutes.

Upper Dublin is about 16.1 miles from Philadelphia, with an average commute of 28 minutes by car. It also has strong transit options—namely, the Fort Washington train station, which gets you into downtown Philly in about 32 minutes.

Each of these communities—whether you’re focused on Philadelphia commuter suburbs in South Jersey like Marlton or nearby Pennsylvania towns like Haverford and Upper Dublin—offers solid commuting options. Whether you’re driving or hopping on public transit, these areas provide flexibility and convenience for anyone working in the city.

How We Can Help You Move to South Jersey or the Philly Suburbs

If you’re considering a move to South Jersey or the Philadelphia suburbs, you’re not alone! Many families are making the leap to these vibrant communities, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re buying, selling, or doing both, our team is equipped to guide you through the entire process.

We start by understanding your unique situation and goals. Are you looking for a family-friendly neighborhood with great schools? Or maybe you want to be close to vibrant shopping and dining options? Whatever your priorities, we'll help you create a personalized plan that fits your needs.

Our expertise extends beyond just finding a home. We’ll help you navigate the logistics of moving, from understanding the local market to coordinating the details of your transition. Our goal is to make the process as seamless as possible, allowing you to focus on settling into your new community.

We pride ourselves on our deep knowledge of the area, including the nuances of each neighborhood. This means we can provide you with insights on the best schools, parks, and local amenities that fit your lifestyle. Plus, our established relationships with local service providers can ease your transition.

So, if you’re ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to reach out. We would love to chat with you about your goals, answer any questions you have, and help you find the perfect community and home that works best for you.

FAQs About Moving to Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin

Moving to a new area can come with a lot of question. To help you navigate your decision, here are some frequently asked questions about moving to Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin.

What is the cost of living like in Marlton, Haverford, and Upper Dublin?

The cost of living varies significantly across these suburbs. Marlton—one of the more affordable Philadelphia commuter suburbs in South Jersey —tends to offer lower housing costs. Haverford and Upper Dublin come with a higher price tag, but many families find the investment worthwhile due to excellent schools and upscale amenities.

How are the school districts in these areas?

Education is a top priority in all three towns. Marlton is praised for its strong sense of community and smaller class sizes. Meanwhile, Haverford and Upper Dublin are known for their top-rated academic programs, including honors and AP options, making them highly attractive for families focused on education.

What recreational activities are available?

Each area offers plenty of things to do. Marlton features community parks and recreational facilities that appeal to families. Haverford boasts rich historical landmarks and local events. Upper Dublin is perfect for nature lovers, with scenic trails, parks, and a peaceful vibe that makes it ideal for weekend escapes.

How is the public transportation system?

If you’re considering commuting from the suburbs, this is a key factor. Haverford and Upper Dublin offer SEPTA train service, making daily commutes into Philadelphia fast and convenient. Marlton, as one of the Philadelphia commuter suburbs in South Jersey, offers easy access to major highways, but has fewer public transit options—making it better suited for those who prefer to drive.

What is the community vibe like in each town?

Marlton offers a warm, family-oriented atmosphere with a strong neighborhood feel—one of the reasons it stands out among Philadelphia commuter suburbs in South Jersey. Haverford delivers classic suburban charm mixed with rich history, while Upper Dublin is known for its polished, upscale environment, perfect for those seeking peace and privacy.

Each town has its own unique appeal, and understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the convenience of South Jersey or the prestige of Pennsylvania suburbs, we’re here to help you find the right fit. Feel free to reach out for personalized guidance!