South Jersey completely surprised me, and I mean that in the best way possible. My weekend exploring Haddonfield’s charming downtown had me questioning everything I thought I knew about Jersey—we’re talking brick-lined streets with amazing restaurants, boutique shopping, and the kind of community vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. And Princeton? Those afternoons wandering through the university campus and grabbing coffee at Small World felt more like Europe than the Garden State.
From historic river towns to beachside communities, these are the best places in South Jersey where you can actually afford a great life without sacrificing your social calendar. Whether you’re escaping Philly prices or just ready for more space and better pizza (yes, it’s actually better here), here are 12 spots that’ll make you rethink everything you’ve heard about Jersey living.
Most Livable Places in South Jersey
Looking for the best places in South Jersey? Explore the vibrant community of Cherry Hill, enjoy the coastal charm of Ocean City, experience the suburban appeal of Mount Laurel, and discover the historic beauty of Moorestown. Whether you’re drawn to beaches, shopping, or family-friendly neighborhoods, these are some of the top places to visit in South Jersey.
- Best for suburban comfort: Cherry Hill
- Best for historical charm: Haddonfield
- Best for coastal living: Ocean City
- Best for balance of urban access and tranquility: Mount Laurel
- Best for community spirit: Moorestown
- Best for nature lovers: Medford
- Best for mountain scenery: Berkeley Heights Township
- Best for affordability: Allendale
- Best for arts and culture: Collingswood
- Best for connectivity to major cities: Princeton Junction
- Best for academic environment: Princeton Meadows
- Best for rural charm: Monmouth Junction
1. Cherry Hill
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $5,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Family-friendly suburbs 🏘️, great schools 🏫, and shopping centers 🛍️
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👧👦, professionals 💼, and commuters 🚆
Cherry Hill is where suburban ease meets city energy, making it one of the best spots to live in South Jersey. It’s got everything—top-tier schools, massive parks, and a food scene that won’t disappoint. Need some retail therapy? The Cherry Hill Mall has you covered with everything from designer brands to local gems.
Weekends here hit differently. You can paddle down Cooper River, stroll through the historic Barclay Farmstead, or explore the local dining scene that offers everything from classic diners to international cuisine. And if you need a city fix, Philly’s just 15 minutes away.
Commuters love the easy NJ Transit access, while families appreciate the safe, welcoming neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a place to raise a family or just want a laid-back town with all the perks, Cherry Hill makes it easy to call South Jersey home.
2. Haddonfield
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,800 – $5,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Historic charm 🏛️, top-rated schools 📚, and strong sense of community 🤝
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌞
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👪, history lovers 📜, and retirees 🏡
If historic charm and small-town warmth are your vibe, Haddonfield is the place to be. This picture-perfect borough is packed with colonial-era architecture, brick sidewalks, and tree-lined streets that make it feel straight out of a storybook. The downtown scene? A dream for shoppers and foodies alike, offering everything from classic Italian cuisine to British-style pub fare.
History buffs will love the local landmarks and historic sites that tell the story of New Jersey’s past. But Haddonfield isn’t stuck in history—it’s got top-rated schools, strong community vibes, and an easy 15-minute train ride to Philly.
Festivals, farmers’ markets, and town-wide events keep things lively year-round. Add in its tight-knit community and postcard-worthy streets, and it’s no surprise why Haddonfield is one of the most desirable places to live in South Jersey.
3. Ocean City
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,000 – $6,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Coastal living 🏖️, boardwalk entertainment 🎡, and family-friendly beaches 🌊
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & summer ☀️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🏝️, retirees 👴, and seasonal residents 🏡
Dreaming of beachside living with a side of nostalgia? Ocean City brings that and more. With its pristine beaches, iconic boardwalk, and family-friendly atmosphere, this is the ultimate Jersey Shore town. Wake up to ocean breezes, spend your days biking along the boardwalk, and wrap things up with classic boardwalk treats like fresh funnel cakes or hand-tossed pizza.
Unlike some other shore towns, Ocean City stays vibrant year-round. The community is strong, schools are solid, and the town is famously dry, meaning no alcohol sales—perfect for those who prefer a quieter coastal life. Whether you’re catching sunrises over the Atlantic, exploring Corson’s Inlet State Park, or just kicking back on the sand, this is shore living at its finest.
If you prefer a relaxed beach town with a strong sense of community, look no further than Ocean City.
4. Mount Laurel
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,200 – $4,800
- 🌟 Unique Features: Great schools 🏫, parks 🌳, and easy commute to Philly 🚆
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌤️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👧👦, young professionals 💼, and commuters 🚗
For those who want suburban peace without losing city access, Mount Laurel nails the balance. It’s 20 minutes from Philly, packed with top-rated schools, sprawling parks, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Whether you’re hiking through Rancocas State Park, teeing off at Ramblewood Country Club, or exploring the local dining scene, there’s always something to do. Laurel Acres Park is another local favorite, offering walking trails, fishing spots, and playgrounds for families to enjoy.
Mount Laurel is big on convenience—you’re close to major highways like I-295 and the NJ Turnpike, making commutes a breeze. Shopping? Moorestown and Cherry Hill malls are just down the road. It’s the kind of place where neighbors know each other, community events bring everyone together, and you can still pop into Philly for a night out.
An easygoing town with great schools, nature, and accessibility? Mount Laurel is tough to beat.
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5. Moorestown
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,000 – $6,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Historic town center 🏛️, highly-rated schools 📚, and scenic parks 🌿
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Affluent families 👪, professionals 💼, and retirees 🏡
Classic, charming, and consistently ranked as one of New Jersey’s best places to live, Moorestown is suburban living done right. It’s got gorgeous historic homes, a bustling Main Street, and a serious community spirit. The Moorestown Mall and Strawbridge Lake Park add to the mix, giving residents a blend of shopping, dining, and outdoor fun.
Families love the top-tier schools, while commuters appreciate the quick access to Philly. The town is big on community events, from summer concerts to the annual holiday parade, making it feel like a tight-knit small town despite being so close to the city. Whether you’re browsing local boutiques, hitting the trails at Boundary Creek Natural Resource Area, or grabbing coffee at Passero’s, Moorestown’s charm never fades. If you want a polished yet welcoming place to call home, this is it.
6. Medford
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,700 – $5,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Wooded landscapes 🌲, charming downtown 🏡, and outdoor recreation 🚴♂️
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌞
- 🏆 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌳, families 👨👩👦, and those seeking a quiet lifestyle 🏡
If you love nature, small-town charm, and a slower pace, Medford is calling your name. Nestled among forests and lakes, this South Jersey gem offers scenic beauty and outdoor adventure without sacrificing suburban convenience. Historic Medford Village is packed with quaint shops, cozy cafés, and community events, while Freedom Park and Brendan T. Byrne State Forest provide miles of trails for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Medford isn’t just about the outdoors—it’s got excellent schools, a strong local economy, and a warm community feel. Whether you’re grabbing farm-fresh produce at Johnson’s Corner Farm, enjoying a craft beer at Lower Forge Brewery, or exploring the historic Kirby’s Mill, there’s always something to do. It’s a town that values preserving nature while offering modern comforts, making it the perfect place for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
7. Berkeley Heights Township
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,200 – $6,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Excellent public schools 🏫, suburban feel 🏘️, and proximity to NYC 🏙️
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌤️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Commuters 🚆, families 👪, and professionals 💼
If mountain views, small-town charm, and a strong community are your thing, Berkeley Heights Township is a hidden gem. Nestled in the Watchung Mountains, this town offers scenic beauty, top-rated schools, and an easy commute to NYC via NJ Transit. It’s the kind of place where neighbors know each other, local businesses thrive, and the town feels like one big family.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to explore, from the wooded trails of Watchung Reservation to the peaceful retreat of Passaic River Park. The township hosts seasonal festivals, summer concerts, and the much-loved Winter Walk, bringing the community together year-round.
Low crime rates, strong school system, and access to both nature and city life—Berkeley Heights is a prime spot for families and professionals alike. It’s a peaceful retreat with just the right amount of buzz.
8. Allendale
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,500 – $7,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Highly-rated schools 📚, picturesque neighborhoods 🌳, and strong community vibe 🤝
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👧👦, professionals 💼, and retirees 🏡
Tucked away in Bergen County, Allendale is where small-town charm meets modern convenience. This town is perfect for those looking for top-tier schools, a close-knit community, and easy access to NYC. Celery Farm Nature Preserve, a 107-acre wetland, gives locals a peaceful escape for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
Despite its quiet, suburban feel, Allendale has a vibrant downtown with local shops, coffee spots, and cozy restaurants. The town’s annual festivals, parades, and community events create an environment where everyone feels at home. Families love the top-rated Northern Highlands Regional High School, while commuters enjoy the direct train service to Manhattan.
With safe neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and a welcoming vibe, Allendale is an ideal place to settle down. It offers a slower pace without feeling isolated—a balance that’s hard to beat in South Jersey.
9. Collingswood
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,200 – $4,800
- 🌟 Unique Features: Vibrant arts scene 🎭, walkable downtown 🏘️, and great restaurants 🍽️
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌞
- 🏆 Perfect For: Artists 🎨, young professionals 💼, and food lovers 🍕
If you want a town with artsy vibes, a walkable downtown, and a buzzing food scene, Collingswood is where it’s at. Just minutes from Philly, this trendy, creative hub is packed with galleries, boutiques, and some of the best restaurants in South Jersey. The Collingswood Farmers’ Market is a local favorite, bringing fresh produce and artisanal goods every Saturday.
This town is all about community and culture. Events like Second Saturday (a monthly arts and music festival), outdoor movie nights, and craft fairs keep things lively year-round. The Scottish Rite Auditorium is a go-to spot for concerts and performances, adding to the town’s creative energy.
With beautiful tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a strong sense of togetherness, Collingswood offers a city feel with small-town warmth. It’s perfect for young professionals, families, and anyone who loves a mix of culture, charm, and convenience.
10. Princeton Junction
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,500 – $7,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Excellent schools 🏫, close to Princeton University 🎓, and strong economy 📈
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌤️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Academics 📖, families 👨👩👧👦, and professionals 💼
For those who want suburban peace with unbeatable city access, Princeton Junction is a top contender. It’s home to one of New Jersey’s busiest train stations, making it a dream for NYC and Philly commuters. But beyond the convenience, it’s a thriving community with excellent schools, scenic parks, and a relaxed suburban atmosphere.
Locals love the town’s quiet neighborhoods, biking trails, and family-friendly parks like West Windsor Community Park, which features sports fields, a skate park, and a dog park. With highly ranked schools and a diverse population, it’s no surprise that families and professionals flock here.
Need a city fix? Hop on the NJ Transit train, and you’re in Manhattan in under an hour. Whether you’re raising a family or just want an easygoing town with urban accessibility, Princeton Junction is a solid pick.
11. Princeton Meadows
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,000 – $6,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Suburban lifestyle 🏡, great schools 🏫, and easy access to Princeton 🎓
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👪, students 📚, and retirees 🏡
With lush green spaces, a diverse community, and a touch of Ivy League prestige, Princeton Meadows is a hidden gem. It offers top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and a relaxed suburban feel—all within minutes of Princeton University’s cultural and academic scene.
Nature lovers will enjoy Plainsboro Preserve, a 1,000-acre nature reserve with trails, lakes, and wildlife spotting. The town itself has a strong sense of community, with cultural festivals, local events, and farmers’ markets keeping things lively.
Housing options range from modern apartments to charming suburban homes, catering to students, professionals, and families alike. The commute to NYC or Philly is a breeze, thanks to nearby train stations and major highways. If you want a peaceful yet well-connected town with a touch of intellectual energy, Princeton Meadows is the perfect place to call home.
12. Monmouth Junction
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,800 – $5,800
- 🌟 Unique Features: Quiet neighborhoods 🏘️, strong school system 📚, and great local parks 🌳
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌞
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👦, professionals 💼, and retirees 🏡
If rural charm, suburban convenience, and a laid-back lifestyle sound appealing, Monmouth Junction delivers. Located in Middlesex County, this quiet, family-friendly town is surrounded by scenic farmland, parks, and open spaces—perfect for those who love a bit of nature without feeling too remote.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Davidson’s Mill Pond Park, a beautiful escape for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The town’s top-rated schools and safe neighborhoods make it a favorite among families, while its proximity to Princeton, New Brunswick, and NYC makes commuting a breeze.
Despite its peaceful atmosphere, Monmouth Junction has plenty of local dining, shopping, and community events to keep things lively. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a quiet morning on your porch and still have easy access to city life when you need it.
With its tranquility with modern comforts, Monmouth Junction deserves a spot in this list.
