What to expect if you move to Upper Darby
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Population & diversity: As of the 2020 census, Upper Darby Treownship is home to approximately 85,681 residents, with an estimated 86,045 in mid‑2024 representing over 100 ethnic cultures.
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Location: Upper Darby is nestled directly adjacent to West Philadelphia, within the bustling Philadelphia–Camden–Wilmington metro area. Its 7.8 sq mi size delivers urban proximity with suburban space.
The lifestyle
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Walkable, transit-centered living around the 69th Street Transportation Center—a major hub offering the SEPTA Market‑Frankford Line, Norristown High‑Speed Line, Trolleys 101/102, and buses to multiple counties.
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Rich cultural tapestry: Over 100 nationalities contribute to a thriving dining scene—H‑Mart, Saad’s Halal, Kim’s Korean, El Cuscatleco (Mex/Salvadoran), Maroosh Halal (Indian), Pica’s Italian, Carib Grill, and more.
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Arts & entertainment: The historic Tower Theater hosts top-tier acts (e.g., David Bowie, Springsteen). The Upper Darby Performing Arts Center and Summer Stage offer year-round performances.
Unexpected appeal
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Historic charm: Home to the 17th-century Lower Swedish Cabin—America’s oldest log cabin—set amid stylish neighborhoods like Drexel Hill and colonial-era estates.
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Parks & outdoor life: Naylor’s Run Park, Kent Dog Park, Cobbs Creek Trail, and numerous playgrounds offer space for recreation and community events.
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Community events: Annual International Festival, Greek and Pride festivals, Jazz and Music Man celebrations bring residents together.
The housing market
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Types of housing: The town offers a blend of multi-family housing (≈67% of listings), such as rowhomes and twins, but also singles including stone colonials, Victorians, and Craftsman‑style homes.
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Prices:
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Median listing price as of January 2025: $259,900, median sold at $269,500
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Census-average owner-occupied home value: $198,000
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Typical price range from $70K to $1.1M, with mid-range homes $200–600K
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Market trends: It's currently a seller’s market—homes sell in ~48 days, often slightly under listing price .
Why you will love Upper Darby if you move there
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Education excellence: Upper Darby School District serves ~12,000 students across 12 schools; Upper Darby High School is one of the state’s largest with ~4,388 students and a diverse student body. Private options include Monsignor Bonner & Archbishop Prendergast Catholic High School.
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Convenient transportation: Easy commuting by SEPTA, plus close access to I‑476, I‑95, Route 1, and a 20‑minute drive to Philadelphia International Airport
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Local economy: Strong retail/business presence around 69th Street, West Chester Pike, and multiple shopping centers (Home Depot, Barclay Square) supports daily needs
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Entertainment & culture: Vibrant nightlife, live music at Tower Theater, theaters, cultural styles, and the Shops at 69th Street; eclectic dining makes it a food-lovers’ town .
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Green spaces & community feel: Parks, trails, festivals, and recreation strike the perfect balance of urban and suburban life.
Final thought
Upper Darby offers an unbeatable mix: urban transportation access, cultural diversity, historic charm, affordable and varied housing, excellent schools, and lively entertainment—all just a stone's throw from Philadelphia. It’s truly “The World in One Place.”