PHILLY SUBURBS – Top 10 Neighborhoods for Renters

In January 2017, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported a surprising trend in apartment living….in recent months, there’s been a substantial demand for upscale rentals in suburban Philadelphia. In fact, more than 7,000 new units are scheduled for construction in Upper Merion, Lower Merion, Phoenixville, and West Chester alone! Who ever said that luxe apartment living should just be reserved for the Rittenhouse elite?

With the rise in new construction and glamorously renovated apartments, suburban neighborhoods have seen a crop up of new dining and entertainment options to satiate the needs of their new residents.

Thanks to more affordable rents, access to better educational institutions, and, generally, just more bang for your buck, suburban living has become more and more appealing in recent years. Attracting young couples and families as well as baby boomers looking to downsize, a move to the Philadelphia ‘burbs might just be your ticket to the good life. Here are the top ten suburban neighborhoods in the Philly area:

1. Conshohocken

Located just outside of the Philadelphia Proper, Conshohocken has been steadily growing in popularity in recent years. From the staple neighborhood pubs that line Fayette Street – like Flanigan’s Boathouse and the Great American Pub– to a fresh introduction of new dining options, Conshohocken residents enjoy a sprawling suburban feel without feeling completely isolated from the city’s dining scene. Local favorites include the cozy Spring Mill Cafe, Totaro’s Trattoria, and Chip Roman’s renowned BYOB, Blackfish.

2. Bryn Mawr

As Bryn Mawr continues to develop as a standout neighborhood for young families and professionals, the area’s attracted some truly phenomenal talent. Even city-centric La Colombe has set up its first Main Line location on Lancaster Avenue in Bryn Mawr Village. And, the neighboring shops don’t disappoint. Check out Turning Point (a breakfast, brunch, and lunch cafe), upscale boutique Kirna Zabête, and the city’s own Enoteca Tredici which is slated to open any day now.

3. Ardmore

Just a few miles down Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore’s proximity to Bryn Mawr certainly isn’t the neighborhood’s sole selling point. Places like Besito, A la Maison Bistro, and Sweetgreen put Ardmore on the map as a standalone suburb, but a gigantic Whole Foods Market complex and the Shoppes at Suburban Square’s outdoor mall are the icing on the cake.

4. Bala Cynwyd

With an influx of new rental housing, Bala Cynwyd is experiencing unprecedented growth. Most recently (and perhaps most exciting!), we’ve seen destination dining spot, Bluefin, open its second location, B2 Sushi, on City Avenue in the heart of the neighborhood. Across the street, Target and other national retailers add suburban comforts and conveniences to this neighborhood’s prime location.

5. Wayne

For many years, Wayne has been a Main Line neighborhood with a lively dining and nightlife scene. Though a bit further from Philadelphia Proper than some other zip codes on our list, this quaint community offers a walkable city center and plenty of fabulous entertainment options. Be sure to check out the White Dog Cafe, Paramour at the Wayne Hotel, and the adorable shops at Eagle Village!

6. Radnor

Wayne’s neighbor to the east, Radnor, offers the high-end options you’d find in any city, but this picturesque area allows you plenty of space to stretch out and stay awhile. Enjoy outdoor dining at trendy Pan-Asian favorite Azie before grabbing a drink at nearby 333 Belrose. Other new neighborhood additions include Greek hotspot, Estia Taverna, and Honeygrow.

7. Ambler

Located about twenty miles north of the city, Ambler offers the best of both worlds. With plenty of outdoor space, parks, and affordable rental housing, Ambler has experienced a resurgence on East Butler Avenue. With First Friday’s, a buzzing Farmers’ market, and other seasonal festivals, the charming neighborhood offers something for everyone while radiating a welcoming community vibe. Check out some live music at Lucky Well, browse the racks at Free Shop, or head to From the Boot for an authentic Italian dining experience.

8. Phoenixville

If you’re considering a move to the suburbs, you won’t want to miss Phoenixville. With Bridge Street’s lively stretch of shops and restaurants, you’ll love the artsy, casual feel of this up-and-coming neighborhood. Many locally-owned boutiques and fresh dining options have already cropped up in this laid back town, yet the area still seems to be growing. If you love the outdoors, Phoenixville also offers miles of open space starting with the Schuylkill River Trail which leads all the way to Philadelphia.

9. King of Prussia

Known for decades for its destination shopping mall full of premiere designers such as Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Gucci, King of Prussia has only recently become a highly sought-after rental location. With an influx of luxury apartments and commercial tenants, King of Prussia has established its own neighborhood vibe while luring renters away from the city center. Davio’s, a Philadelphia dining staple, opened a location here recently in the King of Prussia Town Center which includes a brand new LA Fitness, Nordstrom Rack, Fogo De Chao, and Muse Paintbar.

10. West Chester

Home to West Chester University, this charming college town lies in the Brandywine Valley, almost forty miles from Philadelphia. With a bustling downtown, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of city life with more than 120 shops, boutiques, and eateries! First Friday’s are a regular part of neighborhood living, but don’t miss other seasonal festivals like the West Chester Film Festival, Swingin’ Summer Thursdays, and Super Sunday – a massive street festival held every June.

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