Pros and Cons of Living in Cherry Hill, NJ

Every community has its strengths and tradeoffs. After helping more than 728 families buy and sell homes in South Jersey, I have a clear picture of what makes Cherry Hill special and what challenges residents face. Here is an honest, balanced 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 Public Schools

Cherry Hill Public Schools are consistently one of the top reasons families move here. The district serves approximately 10,600 students across 19 schools, with reading proficiency rates (64%) well above the statewide average (47%). Cherry Hill High School East is regularly ranked among the top high schools in South Jersey, and the district offers strong programs in music, arts, athletics, and advanced placement courses.

For more detail on the schools, see our schools overview on the living guide.

Convenient Location and Commute

Philadelphia is just 20 minutes away via Route 70 or the New Jersey Turnpike. The PATCO Speedline provides direct rail access from the Woodcrest station to Center City in about 25 minutes. This makes Cherry Hill one of the most commuter-friendly suburbs in South Jersey. For more details, read our commute guide.

Diverse and Welcoming Community

Cherry Hill is one of the most diverse townships in South Jersey, with a population that spans many cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. This diversity enriches the community through international restaurants, cultural festivals, religious institutions representing multiple faiths, and a general atmosphere of inclusion and mutual respect.

Abundant Parks and Recreation

The township maintains more than 50 parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities. Croft Farm Arts Center, Challenge Grove Park, Barclay Farmstead, and Cooper River Park offer everything from art classes to accessible playgrounds to walking trails. The Cherry Hill Recreation Department runs youth and adult sports leagues year-round.

Strong Property Values and Appreciation

Cherry Hill has shown consistent property appreciation over time, driven by demand for the school district, limited inventory in desirable neighborhoods, and the convenience of the Philadelphia commute. Homes here are generally a solid long-term investment. Even during market fluctuations, Cherry Hill has proven more resilient than many surrounding communities.

Outstanding Dining Scene

Cherry Hill's dining scene reflects its diverse population. The Route 38 and Route 70 corridors offer everything from Korean BBQ and Vietnamese pho to classic Italian, Mexican, Indian, and American fare. The nearby Collingswood dining scene adds even more options, particularly the famous BYOB restaurant row on Haddon Avenue.

Cons of Living in Cherry Hill

High Property Taxes

This is the number one drawback for most Cherry Hill residents. New Jersey property taxes are among the highest in the nation, and Cherry Hill's average tax bill of $10,000 to $11,000 per year is a significant ongoing expense. However, these taxes fund the excellent school district and high-quality municipal services that make Cherry Hill so desirable.

Traffic Congestion

Route 38 and Route 70 can experience significant congestion during weekday rush hours and weekend shopping times. Cherry Hill's role as a regional retail and commercial hub means these roads carry heavy traffic. Residents learn to time their trips accordingly or use side roads for local travel.

Car-Dependent Layout

Cherry Hill is a classic suburban community designed around the automobile. Most errands require a car, and walkable neighborhoods are limited to small pockets. Public transit exists (PATCO and NJ Transit buses) but is not comprehensive enough to replace a car for most households.

Aging Housing Stock

Many of Cherry Hill's homes were built between the 1950s and 1980s. While many have been beautifully updated, some homes need renovation, updating, or significant maintenance. Buyers should budget for potential home improvement projects and have a thorough home inspection before purchasing.

Competitive Housing Market

Because Cherry Hill is so desirable, desirable neighborhoods and well-priced homes often receive multiple offers. First-time buyers may need to act quickly and come prepared with financing in place. Our first-time buyer guide offers strategies for navigating this market.

The Bottom Line

For the vast majority of residents, the benefits of living in Cherry Hill far outweigh the drawbacks. The schools, location, community, and quality of life create a package that is hard to find in other South Jersey communities. The main tradeoffs are taxes and traffic, both of which are typical for desirable suburban communities near a major city.

The best way to decide if Cherry Hill is right for you is to visit, explore the neighborhoods, and talk to people who live here. You can also draw on the experience of a local expert who knows the market and the community inside and out.