Looking for apt, commuting to Newark, DE & Center City (Chester: apartment complexes, lease)

[jennyblues]

My husband and I currently live in Pike Creek, DE and are trying to find an apartment in PA to better balance our commutes--I teach at UD, and he works in Philly. Our biggest challenge is that he's a "car guy" and wants somewhere he can safely park his baby. I want a balcony or a patio .

Looking for a two bedroom with dedicated parking (even a garage option), w/d, cat-friendly, safe, near SEPTA. Would like to spend <$1400/month.

We have only been in this general area for 1.5 years. People have recommended Swarthmore & Media to us, but we've had trouble finding apartment complexes that match what we want. Our urgent lease ends Jul 31.

[FindingZen]

Finding a managed apartment building/complex with garage parking may be a challenge but most everything else shouldn't be a problem. Swarthmore and Media are both great areas; what is missing in the options that you've found there?

There's nowhere in the immediate vicinity of I-476 that isn't moderately to very safe. Generally speaking, points due west of 476 are middle/upper-middle class neighborhoods while points due east tend to be working class/lower-middle class neighborhoods. The riverfront suburban neighborhoods would not be recommended, particularly Chester.