Living in Chester County, Pennsylvania is a dream for many. The county, known for its historical landmarks and picturesque landscapes, is truly a gem that is perfect for those who want to experience the charm and beauty of small-town living while still being close to the city. However, not everyone can afford to live in this wonderful place due to its high cost of living. But, don’t lose hope just yet. MyChesCo compiled a list of the best counties to raise a family in Pennsylvania, using data from Niche, that can help you fulfill your dream of living in this beautiful county.
1. West Pikeland Township
At the top of our list lies West Pikeland Township, nestled in the serene southeastern part of the county. This idyllic township caters to those who cherish the tranquility of a small town and crave the charms of a rural lifestyle. With a modest population of just over 4,000, West Pikeland Township provides an affordable cost of living, rendering it an idyllic haven for settling down. The area’s cost of living falls below the national average, making it an enticing option for those seeking the serenity of a rural locale without sacrificing financial feasibility. Home prices dip below the norm, while property taxes remain relatively low. All in all, West Pikeland Township offers a delightful standard of living coupled with unparalleled affordability, making it an unrivaled choice for a place to call home.
2. Honey Brook
Honey Brook presents an excellent option for those seeking an affordable cost of living. The town boasts a diverse selection of budget-friendly housing, ranging from apartments to single-family homes. With a population of approximately 2,000, Honey Brook seamlessly blends small-town charm with modern amenities. With a median home value of $211,800, the cost of living in Honey Brook Borough is comparatively lower than the average in Pennsylvania of $257,500. As a result, purchasing a house or renting an apartment in Honey Brook Borough proves to be significantly more economical than in many other areas of the county.
3. Penn Township
Penn Township offers an affordable lifestyle for those seeking a place to call home. Renowned for its exceptional school system and abundance of parks, it’s the perfect destination for families. Public records reveal that the median home price in this charming town is around $339,200, with a median household income of approximately $87,054. Rent for a two-bedroom apartment averages a reasonable $1,200 per month.
4. London Grove Township
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of southwestern Chester County, London Grove Township offers a serene haven for those seeking the tranquility of the countryside. With a population of just over 8,600, this charming township is renowned for its excellent school system and the allure of affordable housing options. Whether you’re drawn to its welcoming community or the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds it, London Grove Township is an idyllic place to call home. Not to mention, with a median home value of $380,000 and a median household income of $143,597, residents can enjoy a comfortable and enriching lifestyle in this delightful corner of Pennsylvania.
5. Westwood
Westwood, located just west of the City of Coatesville, provides an enchanting sanctuary for those in search of affordable housing solutions. With a population of approximately 1,800, this quaint town provides a serene escape from the bustling city life. The cost of living in Westwood is remarkably lower than Pennsylvania’s average of $257,500, boasting a median home value of just $110,400. Affordable two-bedroom apartments are readily available, with an average rent of a reasonable $1,200 per month.
6. Devon
Located in the eastern part of Chester County, Devon is a charming small town known for its excellent public schools and an array of attractions. With a delightful mix of restaurants offering diverse cuisines, a variety of retail stores for all your shopping needs, and beautiful parks for outdoor activities, Devon provides ample opportunities to savor life. While the median home value is $663,300 and median rents reach $2,177, Devon boasts an extraordinary median household income of $197,820. This combination establishes it as an idyllic location for settling down and thriving.
7. Spring City
Spring City is a sought-after town that promises an affordable cost of living. With a population of around 3,000, it boasts exceptional public parks and budget-friendly housing options on offer. The cost of living in Spring City, PA is notably reasonable when compared to the national average. At a median housing cost of approximately $204,300, it significantly outshines other regions in terms of affordability.
8. East Vincent Township
East Vincent Township is a beautiful place to call home if you are looking for a low cost of living. The township offers a wide range of housing options and is known for its excellent schools and close-knit community. With a population of just under 10,000, you’ll certainly feel right at home in this town. In the area, the median home price hovers around $376,400, with an abundance of rental options available at prices well below the county average.
9. Franklin Township
Situated in southern Chester County, Franklin Township presents a range of affordable housing options and a low cost of living. The town is enveloped by breathtaking natural scenery, making it an idyllic destination for those who appreciate the outdoors. Within the area, the median home price stands at approximately $412,800, while rental options are readily available at a median price of $1,332.
10. Birmingham Township
Birmingham Township, located in the serene southeastern part of the county, offers an ideal haven for those seeking a tranquil and affordable place to call home. With a population of just over 4,000, this township seamlessly blends rural charm with modern conveniences. From its lush parks and scenic trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, to its delightful array of local shops and restaurants, Birmingham Township truly has it all. Moreover, the cost of living in Birmingham, PA is notably lower than that of nearby cities and towns, making it an exceptional choice for budget-conscious individuals or those in search of more affordable housing options.
Affordable Towns in Chester County
Ultimately, Chester County, Pennsylvania is a great place to call home, but the high cost of living can be a barrier for some. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 towns with the lowest cost of living in Chester County, Pennsylvania that can help you make your dream of living in this beautiful county a reality. Whether you’re looking for a rural lifestyle or seeking a mix of small-town charm and modern conveniences, these towns offer you a great place to start your journey. So, get ready to pack your bags and head to one of these affordable towns in Chester County!
NOTE: Rankings for cost of living are determined by analyzing factors such as consumer price index, access to affordable housing, and housing-to-income rates. This analysis incorporates data from reputable sources such as the U.S. Census and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Key factors considered include the ratio of home value to income, median home value, median rent, monthly housing cost to income ratio, median effective property tax, and other relevant data points. These statistics are based on the most up-to-date publicly available information.
Additional Resources
Here are some online resources where you can get information about the cost of living:
- Numbeo: This is a user-contributed database of cities and countries worldwide that provides current and timely information about the costs of living, housing indicators, health care, traffic, crime, and pollution.
- Expatistan: It offers a cost of living calculator that allows you to compare the cost of living between cities around the world.
- Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator: This measures the income a family needs in order to attain a modest yet adequate standard of living. The budgets estimate community-specific costs for 10 family types in all counties in the United States.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: The Bureau of Labor Statistics has a section dedicated to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) where you can find information about changes in the prices paid by urban consumers for a representative basket of goods and services.
Remember to use these resources as a guide, but also consider other personal factors that could influence your cost of living.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.
This article is intended for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only and should not be construed as advice, guidance or counsel. It is provided without warranty of any kind.