4 Philly Suburbs Make the Best Places to Live

Four Philadelphia suburbs made it to Niche’s list of 2026 Best Places to Live in America, based on factors like crime, public schools, cost of living, job opportunities and local amenities. 

“The continued recognition of communities like Ardmore, Devon, Penn Wynne and Chesterbrook reflects what so many buyers already see across the Philadelphia suburbs – a strong balance of quality schools, vibrant local amenities and convenient access to the region’s economic and cultural hubs,” says Dave Ashe, 2026 chairman of Tri-County Suburban Realtors®. “Market statistics, provided by TCSR, consistently show sustained demand throughout Chester, Delaware and Montogomery counties, reinforcing that these communities remain highly desirable places to live, work, raise a family and more.” 

No. 7 – Ardmore 

The top best place to live in Pennsylvania, Ardmore is also lauded as the most affordable of the four, with a typical home value of over $513,000, according to the Philadelphia Business Journal. Compared to last year, the suburb climbed four places from no. 11. 

With a population of around 13,900 Ardmore boasts small-town charm with big-city attractions and walkability. It’s located on the west side of Philly and spans across the border of Delaware County and Montgomery County.  

No. 8 – Devon 

Following close behind, Devon has a population of about 1,800, according to Niche. It’s located in Chester County, west of Philly, and the average home carries a value close to $1 million. 

Like Ardmore, Devon is well-known for its offerings of shops, restaurants, bars and coffee shops, as well as highly-rated public schools. Compared to last year, the suburb rose an impressive 177 spots. This year, it also ranked second on Niche’s list of 2026 Best Places to Raise a Family in America. 

No. 9 – Penn Wynne 

Penn Wynne, located west of Philly in Lower Merion Township, ranked no. 9. With a population of around 6,000, the suburb features an array of residential properties, with neighbors calling it a close-knit and friendly community. 

As with Ardmore and Devon, residents appreciate Penn Wynne’s local and abundant amenities, as well as its quality public schools. Compared to 2025, the suburb rose from four places from no. 13. It also ranks no. 5 on Niche’s Best Places to Raise a Family list.  

No. 12 – Chesterbrook  

At no. 12, Chesterbrook is located farther outside Philly, to the northwest. In recent years, the suburb has ranked higher, even topping the list from 2020 to 2023. However, despite the slight drop, Chesterbrook remains high on the list overall for its high-quality public schools and local offerings.  

The suburb has a population of around 5,800, according to Niche, and it ranked no. 5 on their list of Best Places to Raise a Family. Residents in Chesterbrook appreciate their friendly neighbors, outdoor recreation and connections to major highways.