Lower Merion, Pennsylvania: America’s #37 Best Place to Live
Discover why Lower Merion ranks among America's top places to live with excellent schools, culture, and community.
Lower Merion, Pennsylvania: The #37 Best Place to Live in America
Lower Merion Township, located in Montgomery County and just a short drive from Philadelphia, has earned its place as the #37 best place to live in the United States according to Money Magazine’s comprehensive rankings. This prestigious Philadelphia suburb combines suburban charm with urban convenience, making it an increasingly attractive destination for families, remote workers, and professionals seeking a high-quality lifestyle. With its exceptional public schools, abundant cultural attractions, and strong sense of community, Lower Merion represents the ideal balance between modern amenities and timeless neighborhood values.
Location and Geography
Lower Merion Township is strategically positioned along the Pennsylvania Railroad’s historic Main Line route, a designation that has shaped the township’s character and development for over a century. This location provides residents with convenient access to Philadelphia, approximately 15 miles away, while maintaining the peaceful, residential atmosphere that defines suburban living. The township encompasses several charming neighborhoods, including Bryn Mawr, Gladwyne, and Bala Cynwyd, each contributing unique character and community identity to the broader Lower Merion area. Montgomery County’s designation as the township’s home county further enhances the region’s prestige and community resources.
Real Estate Market and Housing
Lower Merion’s real estate market reflects the township’s desirability and strong community fundamentals. The median home price in Lower Merion stands at $500,000, positioning it among the more affluent communities on Money’s best places to live list. While housing costs are higher compared to national averages, the investment is justified by the quality of schools, amenities, and neighborhood stability. Home values have demonstrated consistent appreciation, with strong market demand from families seeking to establish roots in this well-established community.
The township’s housing market remains active, with homes selling at a brisk pace. Approximately 5.6% of households sold in 2019, significantly outpacing the 3.3% sales rate in the nation’s most populous zip codes, indicating strong buyer interest and healthy market velocity. This active market demonstrates continued confidence in Lower Merion as a long-term investment, with families and relocating professionals consistently choosing the township as their destination.
Education and Schools
The Lower Merion School District stands as one of the primary reasons families choose to establish their homes in this community. Lower Merion High School has earned recognition as one of the best high schools in Pennsylvania and serves as the alma mater of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, adding to its prestige and national recognition. The township’s commitment to educational excellence extends throughout the district, with comprehensive support systems and resources designed to foster student success.
Beyond public schools, Lower Merion benefits from proximity to several prestigious colleges and universities. Bryn Mawr College, Haverford College, and Rosemont College are all located within the township, providing intellectual resources and cultural programming that enriches the broader community. Additionally, St. Joseph’s University and other institutions nearby contribute to the educational ecosystem and create opportunities for community engagement and lifelong learning.
Community Demographics and Character
Lower Merion stands out among comparable communities for its distinctive demographic profile. Pre-pandemic, Lower Merion had the highest rate of people working from home of any place on Money’s list, with 9.6% of employed residents working remotely before COVID-19 transformed the workplace. This statistic reflects the township’s appeal to knowledge workers and professionals in technology, finance, and other sectors that support remote work arrangements.
The township maintains a strong family-oriented character, with approximately 79% of homes classified as family households as of 2010. Only 10% of the population was between the ages of 18 to 24, according to community profile data from the U.S. Census Bureau, indicating a mature, established population with strong ties to the community. This demographic composition contributes to neighborhood stability, active civic engagement, and a strong sense of community identity.
Accessibility and Walkability
Approximately 59.1% of Lower Merion residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, providing convenient access to outdoor recreation and green space. This pedestrian-friendly environment reflects thoughtful urban planning and community commitment to maintaining quality public spaces. The township’s proximity to colleges creates an ease and walkability characteristic of college towns, without the overwhelming presence of a college campus or student population.
The township offers five restaurants per 1,000 residents, providing diverse dining options and supporting a vibrant local food scene. Beloved establishments like Hymie’s, a cherished deli operating continuously since 1955, represent the enduring local character and family-owned businesses that define Lower Merion’s commercial landscape.
Arts, Culture, and Entertainment
Lower Merion’s cultural offerings exceed those of comparable communities nationwide. Residents enjoy access to over 200 museums and 350 theaters, concert venues, and dance studios within a 15-mile radius—more than any other city on Money’s best places to live list. This extraordinary concentration of cultural institutions provides residents with endless opportunities for entertainment, enrichment, and artistic engagement throughout the year.
The township actively promotes cultural events and historical exploration. Attractions such as the Barnes House offer visitors and residents opportunities to engage with local history and art. Annual events like the Ardmore Rock ‘N Ride provide community gathering occasions and demonstrate the township’s commitment to fostering social connection and shared experience.
Healthcare Resources
Lower Merion residents benefit from exceptional healthcare accessibility and resources. Montgomery County, where the township is located, has 140 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, compared to a median of 93 among all cities Money analyzed. This significant above-average ratio ensures residents have readily available access to quality healthcare services and primary medical care. The abundance of healthcare providers reflects strong community health infrastructure and demonstrates the township’s commitment to resident wellbeing.
Economic Considerations and Income
Housing costs in Lower Merion are expensive compared to national averages, but resident incomes are proportionally high enough to make housing costs manageable. In an index measuring resident income against the cost of living, Lower Merion scored better than the other cities on Money’s best places to live list, indicating strong economic fundamentals and household purchasing power. This favorable income-to-cost-of-living ratio makes Lower Merion attractive to affluent professionals and established families seeking communities where housing represents a reasonable percentage of household income.
Work-From-Home Advantages
Lower Merion emerged as the nation’s second-best work-from-home town, reflecting both the township’s appeal to remote workers and its strong infrastructure supporting telecommuting. The combination of high-speed internet accessibility, quiet residential neighborhoods, proximity to urban amenities, and excellent schools makes Lower Merion ideal for professionals seeking to balance professional success with quality-of-life considerations. For remote workers prioritizing community resources, cultural engagement, and family-friendly neighborhoods, Lower Merion offers unmatched advantages.
Daycare and Family Services
Families relocating to Lower Merion benefit from comprehensive access to daycare facilities and essential family services. The township provides convenient access to convenience stores, daycare centers, and support services designed to facilitate modern family life. These resources enable parents to balance professional commitments with family responsibilities while maintaining high quality-of-life standards.
Historical Significance and Notable Residents
Lower Merion’s historical importance extends beyond its contemporary appeal. The township is distinguished as the former home of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, whose attendance at Lower Merion High School contributed to the institution’s national prominence. This connection to national prominence adds cultural cachet to the community and demonstrates Lower Merion’s role in developing exceptional individuals across multiple fields.
Parking and Municipal Services
The township offers convenient parking solutions for residents in key areas. Municipal parking lots are available in Ardmore, Bryn Mawr, and Bala Cynwyd, with applications processed through the Parking Services Department. Lot parking permits provide residents and visitors flexible parking options in commercial districts and community gathering spaces.
Utilities and Municipal Infrastructure
Lower Merion maintains robust municipal services supporting residential quality of life. Refuse and recycling collection occurs once weekly through curbside or rear-yard pickup managed by municipal employees. Residents are required to recycle plastic, glass, aluminum beverage containers, and mixed paper, supporting environmental sustainability. The township operates on an enterprise fund model where solid waste fees are self-supporting through user charges, ensuring efficient resource management and sustainable service delivery.
Transportation and Commuting
Lower Merion’s location along the Pennsylvania Railroad’s Main Line provides residents with commuting flexibility. The historic railroad route continues serving the region, offering an alternative to automobile commuting for professionals working in Philadelphia and surrounding areas. This transportation infrastructure enhances Lower Merion’s appeal to remote workers and those seeking flexible commuting arrangements.
Amenities Comparison
| Amenity Category | Lower Merion Value | National Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $500,000 | Above Average |
| Park Accessibility (10-min walk) | 59.1% | Excellent |
| Pre-Pandemic Remote Workers | 9.6% | Highest on List |
| Restaurants per 1,000 Residents | 5 | Strong Selection |
| Primary Care Providers (per 100K) | 140 | Above 93 Median |
| Cultural Institutions (15-mile radius) | 200+ Museums, 350+ Venues | Highest on List |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes Lower Merion a good place for remote workers?
A: Lower Merion ranked as the nation’s second-best work-from-home town due to its combination of high-income residents, excellent internet infrastructure, peaceful neighborhoods, quality schools for families, and abundant cultural and recreational amenities. The pre-pandemic remote work rate of 9.6% was the highest on Money’s list, reflecting the township’s suitability for professionals seeking to work from home.
Q: How are the schools in Lower Merion?
A: The Lower Merion School District is considered one of the best in Pennsylvania. Lower Merion High School is recognized as one of the state’s premier institutions and is the alma mater of NBA legend Kobe Bryant. The township also benefits from proximity to prestigious colleges including Bryn Mawr, Haverford, and Rosemont College.
Q: What is the median home price in Lower Merion?
A: The median home price in Lower Merion is approximately $500,000. While this is higher than national averages, resident incomes are proportionally high, making housing costs reasonable relative to household earnings. Home values demonstrate consistent appreciation and strong market demand.
Q: What cultural attractions are available in Lower Merion?
A: Residents have access to over 200 museums and 350 theaters, concert venues, and dance studios within a 15-mile radius—more than any other city on Money’s best places to live list. Local attractions include the Barnes House, and community events such as the Ardmore Rock ‘N Ride provide regular cultural engagement opportunities.
Q: How far is Lower Merion from Philadelphia?
A: Lower Merion is approximately 15 miles from Philadelphia and a short drive from the city center. This proximity provides convenient access to urban amenities and employment centers while maintaining suburban residential character and quality-of-life advantages.
Q: What neighborhoods comprise Lower Merion Township?
A: Lower Merion Township includes several charming neighborhoods such as Bryn Mawr, Gladwyne, and Bala Cynwyd. The township is located along the historic Pennsylvania Railroad Main Line route, which has influenced its development and character since the 19th century.
Q: How accessible are healthcare services in Lower Merion?
A: Montgomery County, where Lower Merion is located, has 140 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, significantly above the national median of 93. This exceptional ratio ensures residents have readily available access to quality healthcare and medical services.
Q: Is Lower Merion a family-friendly community?
A: Yes, Lower Merion is highly family-oriented with approximately 79% of homes classified as family households. The community provides comprehensive family services including daycare facilities, excellent schools, parks, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community identity that appeals to families with children.
Conclusion
Lower Merion Township’s ranking as the #37 best place to live in America reflects a compelling combination of excellent schools, abundant cultural attractions, strong community values, and exceptional quality-of-life amenities. For remote workers, families, and professionals seeking suburban living with easy urban access, Lower Merion represents an outstanding choice. The township’s historical significance, contemporary convenience, and unwavering commitment to community excellence make it a destination where residents not only live but truly thrive.
References
- Never Go Back to the Office: The 10 Best Places to Live if You Work from Home — Money Magazine. 2021. https://money.com/best-place-to-work-from-home/
- Montgomery County’s Lower Merion Township Ranked 37th Best Place to Live in United States — CBS Philadelphia. 2021. https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/montgomery-countys-lower-merion-township-ranked-37th-best-place-to-live-in-united-states/
- FAQs — Lower Merion Township Official Government Website. 2024. https://www.lowermerion.org/government/about-lower-merion/faqs
- Lower Merion, Pennsylvania – the #37 Best Place to Live — Money Magazine. 2021. https://money.com/collection-post/lower-merion-pennsylvania-2021/
- Lower Merion cracks Money’s list of best 50 places to live in the U.S. — Philly Voice. 2021. https://www.phillyvoice.com/best-places-to-live-lower-merion-lower-merion-money-magazine-montgomery-county/
- Lower Merion Is Nation’s 2nd Best Work From Home Town — Patch. 2020. https://patch.com/pennsylvania/ardmore/lower-merion-nations-2nd-best-work-home-town-money-mag
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