Moving to South Jersey?

If you're thinking about moving to South Jersey, you're probably already discovering that choosing where to live can be just as important as choosing the right home.

Located just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, South Jersey offers a wide range of communities, from established suburban neighborhoods and historic downtowns to wooded properties, newer developments, and waterfront towns. Whether you're relocating from Pennsylvania, moving from North Jersey, or coming from out of state, the region offers a variety of lifestyles, housing options, and commuting possibilities.

But here's something many people don't realize until they start house hunting: two towns that are only 15 minutes apart can offer very different living experiences.

Property taxes, school district boundaries, housing styles, commute times, neighborhood layouts, and access to everyday conveniences can all vary significantly from one municipality to another.

So, where should you start?

If you're considering a move to South Jersey, this guide breaks down some of the area's most popular communities, what makes each one different, and what you should consider before purchasing a home.

Why Are So Many People Moving to South Jersey?

South Jersey has long attracted homebuyers looking for suburban living with convenient access to Philadelphia, regional employment centers, shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation.

One of the area's biggest advantages is its variety. You can find established neighborhoods with mature trees, homes with larger yards, townhome communities, new construction, and historic properties without having to travel far between different types of communities.

For commuters, proximity to Philadelphia is a major consideration. Depending on where you live and work, you may have access to major roadways, regional rail services, and PATCO stations.

South Jersey also offers access to several distinct environments. Some communities are known for their established downtown areas, while others offer wooded surroundings, local farms, parks, and quieter residential settings.

And because South Jersey covers multiple counties and dozens of municipalities, buyers have plenty of options to explore.

The Best Towns to Consider When Moving to South Jersey

There isn't one perfect town for every buyer. The right community depends on your budget, preferred home style, commute, and the features that matter most to your day-to-day life.

Here are several South Jersey towns worth exploring when beginning your home search.

1. Marlton (Evesham Township), NJ

Marlton is one of the most recognizable communities in Burlington County and a popular starting point for buyers exploring South Jersey real estate.

Technically part of Evesham Township, Marlton offers a mix of established residential neighborhoods, newer construction, townhomes, and single-family properties.

Its location near Routes 70 and 73 provides convenient access to shopping, restaurants, professional services, and neighboring communities. Residents also have access to local parks, recreational opportunities, and the Marlton business district.

One of Marlton's biggest advantages is its central location within the South Jersey suburban corridor. Buyers can explore nearby Mount Laurel, Medford, Moorestown, and Cherry Hill without having to look far beyond the surrounding area.

What to consider when buying in Marlton:

• The variety of housing styles and neighborhood layouts.
• Differences in property taxes between individual properties.
• School district assignments based on the property's location.
• Commute routes and traffic along Routes 70 and 73.
• The age and condition of the home's major systems.

For buyers who want an established suburban community with access to everyday conveniences, Marlton is an excellent place to begin exploring.

2. Mount Laurel, NJ

Mount Laurel is another popular destination for people relocating to Burlington County.

The township offers a wide range of residential options, including single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums, and planned residential communities.

Its location near Routes 38, 73, and I-295 makes it particularly convenient for people who commute throughout South Jersey or travel into Pennsylvania.

Mount Laurel also has a substantial commercial presence, with shopping centers, restaurants, office buildings, and everyday services throughout the township.

One important consideration for buyers is that Mount Laurel has several different types of residential communities. A condominium development, a traditional single-family neighborhood, and a newer townhome community can offer very different ownership experiences.

What to consider when buying in Mount Laurel:

• Homeowners association fees and community restrictions.
• Property taxes and the property's current assessment.
• Proximity to major roadways and employment centers.
• Differences between older and newer housing developments.
• Maintenance responsibilities for townhomes and condominiums.

Mount Laurel is worth exploring if you're looking for suburban convenience and a variety of housing options.

3. Medford, NJ

If you're drawn to a more wooded setting, Medford deserves a spot on your South Jersey home search list.

Located in Burlington County, Medford is known for its natural surroundings, established neighborhoods, and recognizable Main Street.

Compared with some of the more commercially developed communities nearby, Medford offers a different atmosphere. Buyers will find homes surrounded by mature trees, larger properties, traditional neighborhoods, and communities with a more tucked-away feel.

Medford also offers a distinct mix of housing, from traditional single-family homes to properties with more land and homes located near wooded areas.

For buyers who prioritize outdoor space and a residential setting, Medford is a community worth exploring.

What to consider when buying in Medford:

• Lot size, property boundaries, and available outdoor space.
• Septic versus public sewer service, depending on the property.
• Well water versus public water, where applicable.
• Wooded lots, drainage, and potential maintenance requirements.
• Drive times to major roadways and nearby shopping areas.

It's especially important to evaluate the individual property in Medford because homes within the same township can have very different features and maintenance considerations.

4. Moorestown, NJ

Moorestown is known for its established character, historic downtown, and variety of residential architecture.

The community offers a combination of traditional homes, historic properties, larger single-family residences, and newer construction.

One of Moorestown's defining features is its downtown area, where residents can enjoy local shops, restaurants, and community events.

For buyers who appreciate architectural character and an established community atmosphere, Moorestown is worth considering.

However, buyers should also be prepared for a different price point in many parts of the township compared with some surrounding communities.

What to consider when buying in Moorestown:

• The age and condition of historic properties.
• Renovation restrictions that may apply to certain properties.
• Property taxes and long-term ownership costs.
• Lot sizes and neighborhood characteristics.
• Proximity to downtown and major commuting routes.

Moorestown is a strong option for buyers who want an established community with a recognizable downtown and a range of traditional residential properties.

5. Cherry Hill, NJ

For buyers who want access to a larger suburban community with extensive shopping, dining, and transportation options, Cherry Hill is worth exploring.

Located in Camden County, Cherry Hill offers a broad selection of housing, including established single-family neighborhoods, condominiums, townhomes, and larger residential properties.

Its location provides convenient access to Philadelphia, major highways, and surrounding Camden and Burlington County communities.

Cherry Hill is also home to a variety of shopping and dining destinations, making it a convenient choice for people who prefer having many everyday services close to home.

One important detail about Cherry Hill is its size. Different sections of the township can have noticeably different neighborhood layouts, housing styles, and commuting considerations.

What to consider when buying in Cherry Hill:

• The specific neighborhood and its surrounding amenities.
• School district assignments and attendance boundaries.
• Access to PATCO and major roadways.
• Property taxes and the home's assessed value.
• Differences between older and newer residential developments.

Cherry Hill is a community where narrowing your search by neighborhood can make a significant difference.

6. Voorhees, NJ

Voorhees is another Camden County community that deserves attention from buyers relocating to South Jersey.

The township features a variety of residential neighborhoods, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condominium communities.

Voorhees offers convenient access to Route 73 and other regional roadways, along with nearby shopping, restaurants, and recreational opportunities.

One of its transportation advantages is access to the PATCO Speedline through the Lindenwold station area, which can be useful for commuters traveling toward Philadelphia.

Buyers considering Voorhees should compare individual neighborhoods carefully, particularly when evaluating housing styles, association fees, and commuting routes.

7. Maple Shade, NJ

If you're looking for a community with convenient access to surrounding South Jersey towns and Philadelphia, Maple Shade is another option worth researching.

Located in Burlington County, Maple Shade offers a mix of residential properties, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums.

Its location near Routes 38, 41, and 73 provides access to nearby shopping, restaurants, and neighboring communities.

Maple Shade can also be an interesting option for buyers comparing different property types and price points throughout Burlington County.

For anyone relocating to the area, it's worth exploring the different neighborhoods rather than assuming all properties offer the same experience.

8. Collingswood and Haddonfield, NJ

For buyers who prefer a more traditional downtown atmosphere, Collingswood and Haddonfield are two communities worth adding to the list.

Both are located in Camden County and offer established residential neighborhoods with distinctive downtown areas.

Collingswood is known for its walkable downtown, local restaurants, independent businesses, and access to PATCO.

Haddonfield offers a historic setting, traditional architecture, and a downtown filled with local shops and restaurants.

These communities may appeal to buyers who value being closer to restaurants, local businesses, and community activities rather than relying exclusively on shopping centers and major roadways.

Housing styles, lot sizes, and property values can differ considerably, so buyers should evaluate individual neighborhoods and homes before making a decision.

Understanding South Jersey Property Taxes Before You Buy

If you're relocating to South Jersey from another state, property taxes should be one of the first things you research.

New Jersey property taxes are an important part of homeownership, and buyers should never assume that two similarly priced homes will have similar annual tax bills.

Even neighboring municipalities can have substantial differences.

According to the New Jersey Division of Taxation's 2025 Average Residential Statistics, the average residential tax bills in several popular Burlington County communities were:

These figures are municipality-wide averages, not estimates of what you will pay on a particular home. Your actual property taxes will depend on the individual property's assessment and applicable tax rates.

The same report also shows differences across Camden County communities, including Cherry Hill, Voorhees, and Haddonfield.

Here's what every relocating buyer should do:

1. Request the current annual property tax amount for the home.
2. Review the property's assessed value.
3. Ask whether any tax appeal or reassessment may affect future taxes.
4. Factor property taxes into your monthly mortgage budget.
5. Compare the total cost of ownership between towns, not just the purchase price.

A home that appears less expensive upfront may not necessarily be the more affordable option once taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance are included.

You can review the official New Jersey Property Tax Statistics before making a decision.

What Is the Commute Like From South Jersey?

For many people moving to South Jersey, commuting is a major part of the decision.

The good news is that the region offers several transportation options, depending on where you choose to live.

Commuting to Philadelphia

Many South Jersey communities provide access to Philadelphia through major roadways, including:

• I-295
• Route 70
• Route 73
• Route 38
• Route 30
• The New Jersey Turnpike

PATCO is another important transportation option for commuters. It connects several Camden County communities with Center City Philadelphia.

However, not every South Jersey town has a nearby PATCO station. Your daily commute may involve driving to a station, parking, and taking the train for the remainder of the trip.

Commuting Beyond Philadelphia

South Jersey also has connections to other parts of the region.

The NJ TRANSIT River LINE runs between Camden and Trenton, with connections to additional transportation services along the way.

The Atlantic City Rail Line also serves communities including Cherry Hill, Lindenwold, and Hammonton, connecting Philadelphia with Atlantic City.

If you work in Philadelphia, Trenton, Camden, Wilmington, or elsewhere in the region, research your actual commute from the specific neighborhood you're considering.

A town may look close on a map but offer a very different commute during morning and evening rush hour.

What Should You Know About South Jersey School Districts?

For buyers with school-aged children, understanding school district boundaries is an important part of the home search.

One of the biggest mistakes relocating buyers can make is assuming that every home in a particular town automatically belongs to the same school district or attendance area.

District boundaries, school assignments, and grade configurations can vary.

Before purchasing a home, buyers should:

• Verify the assigned school district for the exact property address.
• Review the district's official enrollment and attendance information.
• Research transportation arrangements.
• Understand grade-level configurations.
• Contact the district directly with questions about enrollment.

It's also important to remember that school assignments should be verified independently rather than assumed based on a listing description or a nearby property's information.

Older Homes vs. Newer Construction: What Should You Look For?

One of the interesting things about buying a home in South Jersey is the range of housing styles and construction periods.

Depending on the town, you may find homes built decades ago alongside newer developments and recently constructed properties.

Neither option is automatically better. The right choice depends on your budget, preferences, and willingness to take on maintenance or renovations.

Buying an Older Home

Older homes can offer features that are harder to find in newer construction, including mature landscaping, established neighborhoods, larger lots, and distinctive architectural details.

However, buyers should pay close attention to:

• Roof age and condition.
• HVAC systems and heating equipment.
• Electrical and plumbing updates.
• Basement moisture and drainage.
• Windows and insulation.
• Foundation condition.
• Previous renovations and permits.

Buying Newer Construction

Newer homes may offer open floor plans, modern finishes, updated systems, and energy-efficient features.

However, buyers should still review:

• Builder warranties.
• Property grading and drainage.
• Homeowners association fees.
• Construction quality.
• Property taxes and future assessments.
• Community restrictions and maintenance responsibilities.

Regardless of the home's age, a professional home inspection is an important part of the buying process.

What Is the Cost of Living Like in South Jersey?

The cost of living in South Jersey depends heavily on the town, the type of home you purchase, and your household's daily expenses.

While buyers often focus on the listing price, there are several additional costs to consider when relocating.

Housing expenses: Mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and potential homeowners association fees should all be included in your budget.

Transportation: Depending on where you live and work, you may need to budget for gas, tolls, parking, vehicle maintenance, or public transportation.

Utilities: Heating, cooling, water, sewer, and electric costs can vary based on the home's size, age, and utility services.

Maintenance: Larger properties, older homes, wooded lots, and homes with pools may require additional upkeep.

Lifestyle expenses: Shopping, dining, recreation, and entertainment options vary by community.

When comparing South Jersey towns, look beyond the purchase price. Understanding the full monthly cost of living will help you make a more informed decision.

Common Mistakes People Make When Moving to South Jersey

Relocating is a major decision, and there are several mistakes that can make the process more complicated than necessary.

Here are a few things to avoid.

1. Choosing a town before understanding your commute.

A beautiful home may not be worth the extra driving time if it adds significant stress to your daily routine.

2. Looking only at the listing price.

Property taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance can make a meaningful difference in your monthly housing expenses.

3. Assuming every neighborhood in a town is the same.

South Jersey communities can have substantial differences between neighborhoods, even within the same municipality.

4. Not researching the property's utilities.

Some properties may have public water and sewer, while others may rely on well water or septic systems. These differences can affect inspections, maintenance, and future costs.

5. Waiting until you're ready to make an offer to research the area.

If you're relocating from outside the region, take time to explore communities before narrowing your home search. Understanding the area ahead of time can make the buying process much easier.

How to Choose the Right South Jersey Town for Your Lifestyle

Before deciding where to buy, think about what matters most to you.

Do you want to be close to Philadelphia? Are you looking for a larger property with more outdoor space? Would you rather live near a walkable downtown? Do you prefer newer construction or an established neighborhood?

These questions can help narrow your search considerably.

Here is a quick starting point:

These are starting points, not rankings. Every town has different neighborhoods and housing options, and the best fit depends on your priorities.

Is South Jersey a Good Place to Move?

For buyers looking for suburban communities, access to Philadelphia, a variety of housing options, and a range of lifestyles, South Jersey is absolutely worth exploring.

From the established neighborhoods of Marlton and Cherry Hill to the wooded surroundings of Medford and the historic downtowns of Moorestown and Haddonfield, the region offers something different in every direction.

The key is understanding what each community offers before deciding where to purchase.

And that's where having a knowledgeable local real estate professional can make a difference.

Thinking About Moving to South Jersey? Let Pat McKenna Realtors Help.

Choosing the right home starts with choosing the right community.

At Pat McKenna Realtors, we understand that relocating isn't just about finding a property. It's about finding a location that fits your lifestyle, budget, commute, and long-term goals.

With more than 40 years of roots in the Marlton community, Pat McKenna Realtors has built a strong presence throughout South Jersey, with offices in Marlton, Maple Shade, and Margate.

Our team of local real estate professionals can help you explore communities, compare properties, understand the local market, and navigate the homebuying process with confidence.

Whether you're moving to South Jersey from Pennsylvania, relocating from North Jersey, or making a move from across the country, we're here to help you find your place.

Ready to make South Jersey home? Connect with Pat McKenna Realtors and let's find the right community for you.