Living in Cherry Hill, NJ: A Local’s Guide to the South Jersey Suburbs

Let’s talk about living in Cherry Hill, NJ. If you are looking at the Philadelphia suburbs, this Camden County township is probably already on your radar. Located just about eight miles east of Center City, Philadelphia, it is widely considered a premier South Jersey destination for buyers who want suburban space without giving up city convenience.

In this guide, we will sit down and look at the real numbers behind the local housing market, everyday amenities, commuting logistics, and objective crime statistics. Whether you are actively browsing homes for sale in Cherry Hill or just starting to weigh your relocation options, having a clear picture of the community is the best place to start.

Is Cherry Hill NJ a Good Place to Live?

When clients ask if Cherry Hill NJ is a good place to live, I usually point to the established feel of the community. This is not a town of brand-new, cookie-cutter subdivisions built overnight. Instead, you will find mature, tree-lined streets and established neighborhoods that have been growing organically for decades.

The area is well known for its highly-rated public schools and robust educational programs, which are a major draw for buyers focused on local academics. Outside the classroom, residents have incredible access to parks and outdoor recreation. Places like Cooper River and Croft Farm offer miles of trails, water access, and plenty of space for youth sports leagues.

Beyond the lifestyle perks, the local economy is remarkably stable. There are ample job opportunities with major employers right inside the township limits. Thanks to this strong local commercial base, the unemployment rate in Cherry Hill historically hovers lower than the national average.

The Housing Market in Cherry Hill NJ

Let’s turn to the housing market in Cherry Hill NJ, which is often the biggest factor in any move. Right now, we are looking at a seller’s market driven by consistently strong demand. Properties here typically do not sit long, generally selling within 34 days on average.

The median home price currently ranges from approximately $457,000 to $475,000, though this fluctuates depending on the exact neighborhood. You will find distinct architectural styles across the township, from the mid-century splits in Barclay and Woodcrest to the spacious colonials in Kingston and Springdale. Buyers should also keep in mind that property taxes here reflect the broader state of New Jersey, which means they will be a notable line item in your monthly budget.

The township also offers excellent specialized housing options. If you are looking for assisted living or independent senior living communities, there is a strong inventory of well-maintained facilities. This variety makes it easy for residents to stay in the area as their housing needs change over time.

Cost of Living in Cherry Hill, NJ

From there, it is smart to look at the overall cost of living in Cherry Hill, NJ. The reality is that living here is approximately 14% to 19% more expensive than the national average. Housing costs are the primary driver of this elevated index, but everyday expenses play a role as well.

To give you an idea of what to expect, here is a quick look at how typical expenses shape up:

• Housing: The biggest portion of the budget, driven by the $457,000 to $475,000 median home values and local property taxes.
• Groceries and Utilities: These generally align with broader Northeast regional averages, running slightly higher than the national baseline.
• Transportation: Costs can vary widely depending on whether you commute daily via toll bridges or utilize public transit.

While the costs are higher, they are balanced by a strong local earning potential. The median household income here exceeds $107,000, which helps offset the premium of living in a highly desirable suburb of Philadelphia. Plus, when you compare Cherry Hill’s affordability to major metro areas like New York or Washington D.C., you get significantly more space and community amenities for your dollar.

Crime Rate and Statistics in Cherry Hill NJ

Safety is always a priority when researching a place to live, so let’s look at the objective crime rate and statistics in Cherry Hill NJ. Overall, the township earns roughly a B+ crime grade, indicating a lower rate of violent crime than the average US city. The violent crime rate sits at approximately 1.45 per 1,000 residents, which is notably lower than the national average.

When reviewing local law enforcement data, it is important to understand the context of the numbers. Property crimes make up the vast majority of reported incidents here. Because Cherry Hill is a massive retail hub, offenses like retail theft at the major shopping plazas heavily skew the overall property crime statistics.

There is also some statistical variance depending on exactly where you look within the township limits. Based on statistical reporting, the northeast and southern sections tend to record fewer incidents overall. Reviewing local police blotters and neighborhood data is the best way to get a clear, factual picture of specific areas before you decide to move to Cherry Hill.

Commute Times and Public Transportation Options

If you are working in the city, commute times and public transportation options are likely at the top of your checklist. Cherry Hill is incredibly well-connected, making the daily trip into Philly highly efficient.

The absolute standout feature for commuters is the PATCO Speedline. Catching a train from nearby PATCO stations like Woodcrest or Collingswood means a ride into Philadelphia takes only about 12 to 20 minutes. It is a massive time-saver that lets you skip the bridge traffic entirely.

For those who prefer to drive, the township is crisscrossed by major highways. You have immediate access to New Jersey Route 70, Route 38, I-295, and the NJ Turnpike, allowing for easy travel throughout South Jersey and Burlington County. Additionally, there are several bus routes operated by NJ Transit that provide excellent regional connectivity for both work and leisure.

Amenities, Shopping, and Lifestyle

Finally, you cannot talk about living here without mentioning the amenities, shopping, and lifestyle. The Cherry Hill Mall serves as a major retail and economic engine for South Jersey, drawing shoppers from across the region. You will never have to travel far for high-end retail, daily necessities, or entertainment.

Beyond the main mall, the township is dotted with walkable shopping plazas and a highly diverse local dining scene. Whether you are looking for a quick bite after work or a sit-down dinner on the weekend, the restaurant options along Route 70 and Route 38 are endless. These everyday conveniences naturally become community gathering spots.

Ultimately, this area perfectly balances suburban space with urban accessibility. You get the breathing room, the parks, and the larger lots, all while sitting just minutes from world-class dining and culture across the river. It is a blend that keeps demand for this Camden County suburb incredibly high year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Cherry Hill

Where is Cherry Hill New Jersey located?

Cherry Hill is located in Camden County within the South Jersey region. It sits approximately eight miles east of Center City, Philadelphia, making it a highly accessible suburb for city commuters.

Is it expensive to live in Cherry Hill NJ?

Yes, the cost of living is roughly 14% to 19% higher than the national average, largely due to housing prices and property taxes. However, this is offset by a strong local economy where the median household income exceeds $107,000.

What parts of Cherry Hill are nice?

Many buyers gravitate toward established neighborhoods like Barclay and Woodcrest because of their mature trees and mid-century architecture. Areas like Kingston and Springdale are also highly sought after for their proximity to local parks and spacious lot sizes.

Are there senior living communities in Cherry Hill, NJ?

Yes, the township offers a variety of specialized housing options for older adults. You can find several highly-rated assisted living and independent senior living communities located conveniently near local healthcare facilities and shopping centers.