Philly Western Suburbs (Philadelphia, Norristown, King of Prussia: townhomes, new construction, school district)

[cablegirl1996]

Considering a move to Philly suburbs to work near Oaks with possibility of wanting to commute downtown in the coming years for job (thinking near train). Want to keep daily commute to around 25 miles or so.

Couple in early 50's (barely 50) no kids for schools. Looking for ranch possibly but need 3 bdrms and would like 2 car garage. Would like new construction like to stay around $300K. Seems like housing is considerably more expensive than it is in MI.

Any ideas of good areas to look? Seems like townhomes are very prevalent.

[SKJSS]

Are you wanting to keep your commute 25 miles from Oaks or from the train? There are no trains that are really close to Oaks. The closest SEPTA (regional train system) train stop is a good ride away. If you want to stay within 25 miles of Oaks, I'd look to the west. Head out towards Collegeville/Royersford, or points just north of there. It's more rural, but you'll get more for your money. Just be aware of the commute from there to Oaks. The major highway, Rt. 422 is busy...but if you were going from Collegeville to Oaks, it won't be horrific. That's where traffic starts to back up, and from Oaks heading further east it gets pretty bad.

[BPP1999]

You might be able to find a smaller split-level or cape in or near Wayne or King of Prussia for around $300k. Expect it to not be updated, and for it to possibly be on a busy road. I would suggest living in Oaks because you could certainly find something in that price range but the problem will be if you choose to work downtown at a future date (the nearest train station to Oaks is in Norristown, about 20 minutes away).

You would find something in West Norriton (Audubon), which is about 5 minutes from Oaks, in your price range. West Norriton is in the Norristown School District, which isn't as well thought of as most other suburban districts, but if you don't have kids it's not as big of a concern. Depending on where in West Norriton you could be 5-10 minutes from the train stations in Norristown (there are three, and they are all close to each other).

In response to the above poster, the commute from Collegeville or Royersford to Oaks is fairly painless (you can avoid 422 altogether), but the commute from those areas to Center City (again, if you choose to work downtown), would require a 1/2 hr drive to the train station then a train ride of about 40-45 minutes.

25 miles around Philadelphia could mean 30-40 minutes if you commute by train but could mean 1.5 hours if you commute via car and train. I'd try and find a place nearer to the train.

SEPTA | Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority