Relocating from San Diego to......Drexel Hill? (Harrisburg, Chester: homes, find a job)

[west to east coast]

My boyfriend and I are relocating from sunny San Diego to the east coast and need some suggestions. I grew up in New Jersey and hope to be closer to my family.

We're looking to live in a suburban area close to the city that is affordable. My boyfriend needs to be close to an aiport as he travels often with his job. I work as a therapist so it will be relatively easy for me to find a job as I have the ability to look for work in many different settings, hospital, school, family practice, etc...

We are hoping to settle down and evetually start a family so schools are important but not number 1 on the list right now. We enjoy being close to nightlife, diversity, restaurants, theater, music, etc...From my online research it seems as though Drexel Hill offers what I'm looking for....if anyone has other suggestions/input please share. We're hoping to plan a trip out there in mid February and would greatly appreciate some guidance.

Thank you in advance!

[rainrock]

Originally Posted by west to east coast

We enjoy being close to nightlife, diversity, restaurants, theater, music, etc...

Drexel Hill is an older family oriented inner ring suburb, not terribly exciting imo.It would be a good choice for a family moving from Baltimore or Harrisburg. Not so much for a young couple from San Diego imo

Suburbs that might be a better fit imo. Media(5 miles W of Drexel Hill), Wayne,Narberth,Ardmore,Bryn Mawr,Haverford, King of Prussia/Valley Forge/Plymouth Meeting. All these towns are easily accessible to 476 which gives you an easy commute to the Airport. Town of Media is the closest to the airport.

West Chester area and the Exton/Chester Springs area are also a good option, they are much newer and less of a culture shock for someone from San Diego. Little further west though, an extra 25 minute commute to the airport.

Its not for everyone but Center City Philly isnt nearly as imposing as you would think and it has everything you are looking for. Its the cultural core of the region and full of young professionals and college students.Worth a look.

Good luck.

[solibs]

Center City or Roxborough or Mt. Airy in the city.

If you're really into the suburbs I'd look at any of the towns along 476 between the airport and West Chester Pike.

Also, any of the towns in NJ along Haddon Ave or the White Horse Pike. Collingswood, Oaklyn, Haddon Twp, Haddon Heights, Cherry Hill, etc. Generally anywhere within 10 miles of the Walt Whitman Bridge will put you within 30 minutes of the airport. There are a few crummy towns in that radius so if you narrow your search check back with us.

[thesixth]

All the places mentioned above are good to consider (for many of the reasons the posters stated).

However if you are looking for "affordable", then Drexel Hill and Havertown may have some of the more affordable options than others mentioned(i.e. media, bryn mawr,wayne to name a few). Depends on your definition of "affordable".

[GraysFerryB4]

As a resident of Collingswood, NJ, I can't help but suggest you look here. The town has "good" schools and is safe, cultural and a hop to Philly on the PATCO (like 11 minutes). The trendy, Manyunk feel is evident on the avenue with restaurants and shops for everyone. Homes are older and affordable and greatly diverse for young couples. Especially someone with a west coast experience. Hope that helps!