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🚆 Best Philadelphia Suburbs for Commuters in 2025

July 10, 20253 min read

By Megan Harkins | Living Beach 2 Burbs
🌐 www.livingbeach2burbs.com | 📧 [email protected] | 📞 215-935-4113


Want Suburban Living Without a Long Commute?

If you love the idea of a bigger home, quieter streets, and a yard—but still need to get to Center City Philadelphia quickly—you’re in luck. Philly is surrounded by charming, commuter-friendly suburbs that offer the best of both worlds.

As a local real estate agent who’s helped countless buyers make the move from city to suburb, I’m breaking down the top suburbs near Philadelphia for commuters in 2025—based on travel time, lifestyle, and home value.


🏘️ 1. Ardmore, PA

Distance to Center City: ~25 minutes by train (Paoli/Thorndale Line)

Why it’s great:

  • Bustling downtown with shops, restaurants, and cafes

  • Walkable and transit-oriented

  • Highly rated Lower Merion School District

Real estate vibe:

  • Historic homes, modern townhomes, and updated condos

  • Median home price: ~$525,000


🏘️ 2. Media, PA

Distance to Center City: ~35–40 minutes (Media/Elwyn Line)

Why it’s great:

  • Nicknamed "Everybody's Hometown"

  • Charming trolley system and family-friendly events

  • Walkable State Street packed with local businesses

Real estate vibe:

  • Spacious single-family homes and townhomes

  • Median home price: ~$475,000


🏘️ 3. Narberth, PA

Distance to Center City: ~20 minutes by SEPTA Regional Rail

Why it’s great:

  • Small-town feel with artsy, creative energy

  • Great public schools and community vibe

  • One of the most walkable Philly suburbs

Real estate vibe:

  • Bungalows, colonials, and Tudor-style homes

  • Median home price: ~$600,000


🏘️ 4. Jenkintown, PA

Distance to Center City: ~25 minutes by train

Why it’s great:

  • Quiet streets, mature trees, and strong sense of community

  • Walkable downtown with restaurants and shopping

  • Affordable and underrated

Real estate vibe:

  • Mix of historic homes and mid-century options

  • Median home price: ~$350,000


🏘️ 5. Conshohocken, PA

Distance to Center City: ~30 minutes by train or car

Why it’s great:

  • Urban-suburban hybrid with a youthful, professional crowd

  • Lots of new construction and riverfront development

  • Strong dining and nightlife scene

Real estate vibe:

  • Condos, townhomes, and newer single-family homes

  • Median home price: ~$400,000


🏘️ 6. Haddonfield, NJ

Distance to Center City: ~20 minutes via PATCO Speedline

Why it’s great:

  • Historic charm and top-rated schools

  • Beautiful downtown with boutique shops and cafes

  • New Jersey taxes can be higher, but it's a unique lifestyle option

Real estate vibe:

  • Grand Victorians and craftsman-style homes

  • Median home price: ~$575,000


👩‍💼 Megan’s Local Insight

"Many of my clients want space and calm—but can’t sacrifice city access. These suburbs give you both, whether you need a 20-minute train ride or a quick hop on I-76. I help buyers evaluate lifestyle, schools, and commute time so they can make the move with confidence."
Megan Harkins, Realtor® | Living Beach 2 Burbs


🧠 Tips for Choosing a Commuter-Friendly Suburb

  1. Test the commute during your usual work hours

  2. Look at SEPTA and PATCO rail access

  3. Factor in school ratings and walkability

  4. Check for parking availability if you’ll drive to the station

  5. Work with a local agent (me!) who knows both city and suburban markets


🏡 Ready to Make the Move from City to Suburb?

If you're looking to escape the hustle of Center City without giving up convenience, I can help you find the right suburb for your lifestyle, budget, and commute. From Ardmore to Conshy and everything in between—I’ve got you covered.

📞 Call or text: 215-935-4113
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Visit: www.livingbeach2burbs.com

Let’s find your dream home—just a quick ride from the city.

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