The Pros and Cons of Living in Cherry Hill, NJ

Every community has its strengths and tradeoffs. Here is an honest look at the pros and cons of living in Cherry Hill to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Living in Cherry Hill

Excellent Schools

Cherry Hill Public Schools are one of the township's biggest draws. The district serves over 10,600 students across 19 schools with reading proficiency rates above the state average. Cherry Hill High School East is consistently ranked among the top high schools in South Jersey.

Convenient Location

Philadelphia is just 20 minutes away via Route 70, the NJ Turnpike, or PATCO rail. This makes Cherry Hill ideal for commuters who want suburban living with easy city access.

Diverse Community

Cherry Hill is one of the most diverse communities in South Jersey. This diversity is reflected in the restaurants, cultural events, and community organizations, creating a rich and welcoming environment.

Abundant Amenities

Over 50 parks and recreational facilities, the Cherry Hill Mall, diverse dining, and community events throughout the year mean there is always something to do.

Strong Property Values

Cherry Hill has shown consistent property appreciation driven by school demand, limited inventory, and proximity to Philadelphia. Homes here are generally a solid long-term investment.

Cons of Living in Cherry Hill

Property Taxes

New Jersey has some of the highest property taxes in the nation, and Cherry Hill is no exception. The average tax bill is approximately $10,000 to $11,000 per year, which is a significant ongoing cost.

Traffic

Route 38 and Route 70 can experience significant traffic during peak hours. As one of South Jersey's commercial centers, Cherry Hill sees substantial commuter and retail traffic.

Suburban Sprawl

Cherry Hill is a car-dependent community. While some areas are more walkable than others, most errands require a car. Public transit options are limited to PATCO for Philadelphia commuters.

Aging Housing Stock

Many Cherry Hill homes were built between the 1950s and 1980s. While many have been updated, some may require significant maintenance or renovation.

The Bottom Line

Cherry Hill offers an excellent quality of life for families, professionals, and retirees who value good schools, a diverse community, and convenient access to Philadelphia. The tradeoffs (primarily taxes and traffic) are common to desirable suburban communities in the Philadelphia metro area. For most residents, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.

Weigh your options further with the full pros and cons guide, the cost of living guide, and the Living in Cherry Hill guide.