Where to live (and where NOT to live) in Sterling?

[CaliTransplant1981]

If I am trying to avoid any one area of Sterling, which part would that be?

[Caladium]

Avoid the area that's a 4-5 block radius around the DMV (Sterling Park). Also, avoid anything that's too inexpensive. If the price seems too good to be true, something's wrong.

Sterling Park and Sugarland Run are the least expensive areas and are mildly rundown. I'm not sure that necessarily means you should avoid them--some people prefer the inexpensive parts of town. They're my least favorite parts, though. They're two areas where I might be a little nervous to take a walk around the neighborhood after dark. In Cascades I take long walks at night without any worries.

[scimitar12]

Originally Posted by CaliTransplant1981

If I am trying to avoid any one area of Sterling, which part would that be?

I would avoid anything in Sterling Park. Yes, the immediate area around the DMV is the worst; however, the remainder of S.P. is at best only marginally better, and that is not saying much IMHO. Most areas north of Hwy. 7 are good, but I would also avoid Sugarland Run. Rents and housing are cheaper in these two areas, but you get what you pay for.

[Margery]

With all these comments and opinions, no one has addressed your budget.

You said your desired rent was $2100, and you wanted 3 bedrooms, that will get you a townhouse in 20165. You will have to come up closer to $3000 to rent a detached home in 20165. There are nice areas of 20164 in Sterling Park, namely Forest Ridge, Spring Grove, Rolling Ridge, and also in Sugarland Run. You can check out the schools on Great Schools. You are certainly not taking your life in your hands to live in any of these areas. Yes, I would avoid living in the commercial area of Sterling Park, but there are some lovely, well maintained homes in both Sterling Park and Sugarland Run.

[djmont]

We recently bought a SFH in Potomac Lakes and love the area. I don't know if you'll find a non-townhouse in your price range, though.

[ChocolateCity2001]

I would agree with those who have posted on here so far. Keep to north of Route 7, and you should be fine. South of Route 7 has it's okay, and quite frankly rundown sections, so you have to take caution. If you are in fact settled on the idea of moving to Sterling Park, stay away from the DMV section, since that is probably the worst part of Sterling.

[South Jersey Styx]

Originally Posted by Margery

You said your desired rent was $2100, and you wanted 3 bedrooms, that will get you a townhouse in 20165. You will have to come up closer to $3000 to rent a detached home in 20165. There are nice areas of 20164 in Sterling Park, namely Forest Ridge, Spring Grove, Rolling Ridge, and also in Sugarland Run. You can check out the schools on Great Schools. You are certainly not taking your life in your hands to live in any of these areas. Yes, I would avoid living in the commercial area of Sterling Park, but there are some lovely, well maintained homes in both Sterling Park and Sugarland Run.

Margery has a point. Rather than oust all of the Sterling Park area, it's best to see the different streets and neighborhoods. East Frederick Drive has several newish developments that border Sterling Park but not considered Sterling Park. Same as some developments near the Costco area and Target shopping center. Also, many houses in this have been purchased, rehabbed, and renovated by young professionals and couples and thus changing its former demographics. Good luck!

[Caladium]

Originally Posted by South Jersey Styx

Also, many houses in this have been purchased, rehabbed, and renovated by young professionals and couples and thus changing its former demographics. Good luck!

That's a good point. This area does seem to be changing.