Newbie needs help figuring out where to live... (income, income tax)

[mtoure80]

Rachel, Thank you so much!
That's really useful information!!

Mike, yes I won't be home for 50% of the time. How about a compromise?
Where in PA is about 20 min from the city and about 20 min to Logan... And about 20/30 min from the airport (PHL)

[MikeNigh]

Seems like Media might work for you.

[mtoure80]

What about South Philly?
I noticed property tax is a lot higher outside of Philly - which kind of makes up for the wage tax.

[RightonWalnut]

South Philly is doable. I'd suggest either that, Northern Liberties or Fairmount. You should be able to find a spot with a garage in these locations. You seem like you really want to be in the city, and if that's the case, don't settle for the suburbs, you'll just be disappointed living anywhere but the city. Living in the city is definitely worth it, your social life will thank you. There is not much of a nightlife in the suburbs.

[LHM]

Another vote for Media.

Commuting from Logan Township to center city Philly could get old quick.

[mtoure80]

Mind you I will be commuting 4 days a week - at most (since I will be traveling) - once I settle into the job.
What's so great about Media? I hear/read people say good things, but when I look at the map & photos, it doesn't look too appealing.

[rainrock]

Originally Posted by mtoure80

What's so great about Media? I hear/read people say good things, but when I look at the map & photos, it doesn't look too appealing.

Its just that its an anomaly as its an older " well kept" , well planned, walkable town sitting on a rail line.

Truth be told its more of a family oriented town imo although there are a couple dozen nice restaurants and bars within walking distance of each other. Can get rather crowded on the weekends.

If you are working in Logan Twp its not a bad option due to the easy commute over the Commodore Barry Bridge. West Chester has a better vibe for a younger person but it would add 15-20 minutes to your commute to NJ

Imo you'd probably be better off in Haddonfield ,Collingswood , Cherry Hill NJ and save yourself the bridge toll. Haddonfield-Media-west Chester are all very similar except that West Chester is home to a University and about 20,000 students.

[FamousBlueRaincoat]

Originally Posted by mtoure80

What's so great about Media? .

Media is great because it's something that America has largely lost.

A small town with an extremely walkable, useful, and diverse main street, a trolley which runs down the main street, and railroad access. Something that used to be pretty commonplace and survives in very few places.

If you're looking for something like Center City, it's not going to be Center City. It's only similarity in its uniqueness.

https://maps.google.com/maps?q=media...,94.89,,0,2.63

[mtoure80]

Do you guys know of nice complexes in Philly?
Around Center City, Fairmount, Fishtown, etc...

[GraysFerryB4]

If you are not home 50% of the time, you are paying a HIGH price for a place in the city with a garage and more space. I second Collingswood. You get a village feel and can be in the city in 12 minutes, 24/7. The PA SEPTA Regional Rails shut down at midnight.