Good areas for family not far from Center City (Camden: to rent, townhouse)

[FamBri]

I plan on moving with my family - which is my wife and four children, ages 7 and under - to the Philadelphia area in about a month. I'll be starting a new job in Center City. We aren't at all familiar with the Philadelphia area. (Other than the trip there for my job interview, during which I didn't have time to explore, my wife and I have never been there.)

We're looking to rent (not interested in buying right now) a 3+ bedroom house or townhouse for $1,500 to $2,000. With young children, safety and elementary schools are top concerns. I don't want to be more than about 30 minutes away by PATCO and we also really want somewhere with a yard.

We're not particular to living in NJ vs. PA, but are leaning towards NJ because it seems easier to find something we like in our price range. We're mainly considering Cherry Hill, Collingswood, Oaklyn, Haddon Township, Haddonfield, and Ashland. Any thoughts about any of those areas, or any other areas we should consider?

[NJhighlands87]

Haddon township has maybe the best mix of commute, schools and affordability. Throw Haddon heights onto your list too.

[FamBri]

Thanks for the reply. We'll look in Haddon Heights, too.

[FamBri]

I just heard about the River Line light rail. How do towns along that route compare with towns along PATCO? Also, would it be easy to take River Line into Center City? Looking at the map I guess I'd have to transfer to PATCO or SEPTA.

[stuckinsj]

For the riverline you would have to transfer at Walter Rand in Camden. Its an easy transfer. Good towns along the line are Palmyra, Riverton, and Cinnaminson for your 30 min commute to Center City. The Riverline costs $1.50 and patco cost like $1.75 from camden to CC.

[FamBri]

Great! Thanks, stuckinsj.

[discndav]

FYI, the transfer in Camden is outside for a very short walk. (at least years ago it was)