Pros and Cons of Living in Delran, NJ
No town is perfect for everyone. Here is an honest, balanced look at what makes Delran a great place to call home and what you should know before moving here.
No Place Is Perfect, But Delran Comes Close for Many
Every town has its strengths and its trade-offs. The key to being happy in a community is knowing what you are getting into before you move. Delran is a wonderful place for many people, but it is not the right fit for everyone.
This guide lays out both sides honestly. We cover what residents love about Delran and what some wish were different. This is not a marketing pitch. It is the kind of straight talk you would get from a neighbor who has lived here for years.
Bob Millaway has helped over 600 families find homes in Burlington County. He knows Delran inside and out, and he believes in helping people make informed decisions, not just quick sales. For a broader overview, read the complete guide to living in Delran.
The Pros
Quick Commute to Philadelphia
At just 15 miles from Center City, Delran offers a 20-25 minute drive to Philadelphia via the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge or I-295. This is one of the shortest commutes from any Burlington County suburb.
Excellent Public Schools
The Delran Township School District serves approximately 2,900 students across four schools with strong ratings. Delran High School is ranked among the top in Burlington County, and the middle and intermediate schools both earn 5/5 ratings.
Beautiful Parks and Waterfront Access
Amico Island Park on the Delaware River offers hiking, fishing, kayaking, and stunning river views. Kids Kingdom is a beloved playground. With eight township parks, green space is never far away.
Lower Cost of Living Than Many NJ Suburbs
With a median home value around $262,000, Delran is significantly more affordable than nearby Moorestown ($500K+) or Cherry Hill ($375K+). You get more house for your money.
Safe, Family-Friendly Community
Delran has a violent crime rate significantly below the national average. The township earns a B+ overall crime grade from CrimeGrade.org, placing it in the 76th percentile for safety.
Diverse Housing Options
From historic homes in Bridgeboro to mid-century ranches in Tenby Chase to new construction in Chester Woods, Delran offers housing for every stage of life.
Growing Local Business Scene
The Route 130 corridor brings a diverse mix of dining, shopping, and services. L & M Bakery, RT 130 Diner, and ANISE Vietnamese Cuisine are local favorites.
Strong Sense of Community
National Night Out, the Spring Egg Hunt, the Fall Festival, and the Winter Tree Lighting bring neighbors together. The Recreation Advisory Committee keeps the community connected year-round.
The Cons
Limited Public Transportation
A car is almost essential in Delran. The NJ Transit River Line is available at the nearby Cinnaminson station, but bus routes are limited and most errands require driving.
High Property Taxes
Delran's effective property tax rate of approximately 3.89% is well above the national median of 1.02%. For a median-priced home, expect annual taxes around $10,200.
Route 130 Traffic
Route 130 is the main commercial corridor, and it can get congested during peak hours. Left turns and merging can be challenging, especially at busy intersections.
Long NYC Commute
New York City is about 90 miles from Delran with a typical drive of 1.5 hours. Train service requires a River Line connection to the Northeast Corridor, making it a long trip.
Limited Nightlife
Delran does not have a walkable downtown with bars and entertainment venues. For a lively night out, you will need to drive to Moorestown, Mount Holly, or Philadelphia.
Flood Zones Near Waterways
Some areas near Rancocas Creek and the Delaware River are in flood zones. This is something to check carefully when buying a home in certain parts of Delran.
Limited Walkability
Most of Delran is car-dependent. While some neighborhoods have sidewalks, daily errands typically require a vehicle. Walk Score is low for most of the township.
NJ Auto Insurance Costs
New Jersey has some of the highest auto insurance rates in the country. Combined with bridge tolls for Philadelphia commuters, transportation costs add up.
What Delran Residents Say
Perspectives gathered from long-time residents and newcomers alike.
"We moved here from Cherry Hill for the schools and the lower home prices. The commute to Philly is actually faster than it was from Cherry Hill because we skip the traffic on 295. Our kids love the parks and the youth sports programs."
Family of four, Tenby Chase
"I retired here five years ago and love the quiet. Ashley Crossing is perfect for active adults. My only complaint is that I need to drive everywhere, but I knew that coming in."
Retiree, Ashley Crossing
"I bought my first home in Delran as a single professional. The price was right, and I can be in Center City in 25 minutes. The nightlife is limited, but I am close enough to Philly that it does not matter."
Young professional, Cambridge
Who Is Delran Best For?
Based on the pros and cons, here is who tends to thrive in Delran.
Families with Children
Safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, abundant parks, and youth sports programs make Delran a top choice for families. The pros far outweigh the cons for this group.
Philadelphia Commuters
At 15 miles from Center City with a 20-25 minute drive, Delran is ideal for anyone who works in Philadelphia but wants suburban space and lower home prices.
First-Time Home Buyers
Affordable entry points, diverse housing options, and down payment assistance programs make Delran an excellent place to buy your first home.
Retirees and Empty Nesters
Quiet neighborhoods, 55+ communities like Ashley Crossing, senior programs, and proximity to healthcare make Delran a comfortable place to retire.
Making the Right Choice for You
The best way to decide if Delran is right for you is to visit. Walk around the neighborhoods, grab a coffee at L & M Bakery, drive the commute route during rush hour, and talk to residents. Bob Millaway can arrange a personalized tour of Delran's neighborhoods and help you weigh the pros and cons for your specific situation.
Explore More About Delran
Dive deeper into what makes Delran a great place to live.
Cost of Living in Delran
Detailed breakdown of housing, taxes, utilities, and everyday expenses.
Best Neighborhoods in Delran
Explore each neighborhood's character, housing styles, and price ranges.
Commuting from Delran
Complete guide to driving, transit, and commute times to Philadelphia and beyond.
Still Deciding If Delran Is Right for You?
Bob Millaway has been helping families in Burlington County for over 20 years. He can give you an honest, no-pressure assessment of whether Delran fits your lifestyle and budget.