$838,931Average Value$282Average Price per Sq Ft20Homes For Sale
Historic ties paired with 21st-century conveniences
On the outskirts of Philadelphia, across the Schuylkill River, Bala Cynwyd dates to the 1680s and derives its name from a pair of municipalities in Wales, the town of Bala and the village of Cynwyd. Quakers from the European country settled in the eastern Pennsylvania city in the late 17th century, combining the two names together from their homeland. Similar to blending the two cities’ names, current-day Bala Cynwyd is a mixture of historical buildings paired with modern conveniences. “There are lots of great food scenes and businesses in the area,” says Jake Toyberman, an associate broker and Realtor with Homestarr Realty. “It’s very vibrant.”
Over 9,000 locals call Bala Cynwyd home. Winding residential streets make up much of the city, branching northward off City Avenue and the area’s small downtown landscape. City Avenue also provides residents with convenient access to Interstate 76, and locals aren’t far from driving into Philadelphia proper. “It’s the first town off the expressway coming from Center City, conveniently the first stop along the Main Line,” says Realtor Andrea Robbins of Fox & Roach with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, who has sold homes around the area since 1978. “It has shops, trails and great schools.”
The Cynwyd Heritage Trail Bridge has stunning views of the Schuylkill River in Bala Cynwyd.
In Bala Cynwyd, there are plenty of shopping and dining options right on city ave.
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Older-style architecture populates Bala Cynwyd
The housing landscape of Bala Cynwyd consists of a mix of single-family homes, townhouses and condos. Many of the single-family homes date to the first half of the 20th century, and the overall median price is about $627,000. Colonial-style homes are the most commonly found architecture in the city, including some that add stone designs and Dutch Colonial flair. “Architecture is in the older style and mid-century homes, which is lovely.,” Toyberman says. “It’s very historic, yet very modern because a lot of these older homes have been updated, so it’s really nice. If you like the old type of classic look with modern updates, they’re fantastic.” Some ranch-style homes, Tudors and split-levels can be found in the area as well. Winding streets, some lined with sidewalks, comprise most of the city.
Cold winters in Bala Cynwyd can deliver up to over half a foot of snow, on average, in January.
Tudor style homes can be found throughout the Bala Cynwyd community.
The Bala Cynwyd neighborhood contains some of the county’s oldest and finest mansions.
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A historic trail and paths near the river
The Cynwyd Heritage Trail follows former railroad tracks for nearly 2 miles through the center of the city. It also includes the Manayunk Bridge, which offers views of the river. West Laurel Hill Cemetery and Merion Memorial Park both sit within the city and serve as final resting places for many former residents. Pencoyd Trail runs along the river, and residents can fish and boat on the waters of the Schuylkill. Just east of the city, Fairmount Park lines both sides of the Schuylkill River and spans nearly 10,000 acres in its entirety. Multiple fields, trails and both open and forested spaces sit on the west side of the river. Visitors can also take in views of the Philadelphia skyline from the park. The Bala Golf Club is a private club with a William S. Flynn-designed course that serves as home to the University of Pennsylvania men’s and women’s golf teams.
The West Laurel Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd is known for its panoramic view of the Schuylkill River.
Bala Cynwyd Park has a large playground.
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Shopping outlets along City Avenue
Bala Avenue serves as a mini rustic downtown area for the city. Several local eateries, including a grill, a pizzeria and an Italian restaurant, are situated along it. Bala Avenue leads to City Avenue, which operates as the area’s primary hub for shopping and dining. The Bala Cynwyd on City Avenue shopping mall has several restaurants, an ACME Markets for grocery shopping and several other national chain stores. More spots to dine out are situated to the west down City Avenue, and a Target sits across the thoroughfare.
Locals can find something to where at Jody's Collection in Bala Cynwyd.
Individuals in Bala Cynwyd can dive into delicious Mediterranean fare at Al Dar Bistro.
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Commuting into Philadelphia on the interstate
City Avenue connects to Interstate 76, also known as the Schuylkill Expressway, which parallels the banks of the river and runs along the north side. Residents are less than 5 miles from the interstate, which traces the edge of the Schuylkill before crossing over into Philadelphia. “It’s a great location to get into the city, and the easy access to the highways is fantastic,” Toyberman says. Buses and trains have stops within the city for public transit, including Cynwyd Station south of the city center. Philadelphia is less than 10 miles southeast. Philadelphia International Airport sits almost 15 miles south of Bala Cynwyd. Roxborough Memorial Hospital is less than 3 miles across the Schuylkill.
A passenger waiting for the next train in Bala Cynwyd.
There are two SEPTA train stations in the Bala Cynwyd neighborhood.
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A highly-rated school district for city students
The Lower Merion School District serves students in the Bala Cynwyd area, encompassing six elementary schools, three middle schools and two high schools. Niche gives the district an A-plus. Merion Mercy Academy is one of the closest nearby private schools, and the all-girl Catholic school gets an A-plus from Niche. The Hawk Hill Campus of Saint Joseph’s University sits just south of Bala Cynwyd, while Villanova University is about 11 miles west of the city.
Bala Cynwyd Middle School has a rigorous multi-disciplinary curriculum.
The Cynwyd School staff is knowledgeable and dedicated to its students.
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Events taking place in Philadelphia proper
About 5 miles away, the Ludington Memorial Library in Bryn Mawr ranks in the 99th percentile for resident visits per year across the United States, offering a wide variety of programs ranging from children’s story time to chair yoga to film screenings. Residents of Bala Cynwyd live on the outskirts of Philadelphia, and as such can head into the city for a number of events around the calendar year. The now-defunct Eastern State Penitentiary is about 5 miles southeast, hosting events around Halloween themed to the former prison’s haunted past and offering tours during much of the year. The Philadelphia Sports Complex is about 10 miles south of Bala Cynwyd, where Phillies, Eagles, 76ers and Flyers fans can go to watch their home city’s teams play at three venues. Various festivals also take place in Philadelphia proper throughout the year, spotlighting cultures, holidays and more.
Changing crime rates in Bala Cynwyd
The city is located in Lower Merion Township, and the township’s police department recorded a slight drop in violent crimes from 2022 to 2023. However, property crimes increased significantly in that two-year span.
Written By
Adam Cheek
Photography Contributed By
Jay Ratchford
Video By
Matthew Link
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Megan McGowan,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Bala Cynwyd, PA sell after 36 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Bala Cynwyd, PA over the last 12 months is $590,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Fabulous opportunity to secure and add value to a single-detached home in Lower Merion with stunning views of Manayunk just across the river! The home is situated on a double lot, offering the potential to add living space, add a garage, pool, or whatever your vision would like to create! The existing home offers lots of living space with a charming front porch, bright living room with hardwood
Look No Further!Spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath unit in the highly sought-after Fairmont Condominium. With 1,647 sq. ft. of sun-filled living space, this home features an open-concept living and dining area with engineered wood flooring , crown molding, chair rail, and recessed lighting.The eat-in kitchen is beautifully updated with stainless steel appliances, tile backsplash, granite
Welcome to 162 Union Avenue, a gorgeous residence located in Lower Merion's award-winning blue ribbon school district. You will be amazed as soon as you enter through the door. Upon entering, you are greeted by a bright, welcoming foyer with beautiful new flooring, neutral paint, and original mouldings throughout the home! The first floor features a wide living area, which connects to a spacious
Land is Scarce in Bala Cynwyd. This property sits on Lower Merion VC Zoned Land with Multi Family being an allowable use and while you are deciding what to do with this piece of land you can have a restaurant tenant paying you rent! This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a fully equipped restaurant property in one of Philadelphia's most affluent and sought-after areas—the prestigious
Rare opportunity to own a grandfathered, buildable 5,000 sq. ft. non-conforming residential lot in Belmont Hills, within the award-winning Lower Merion School District. 138 Rockland Avenue is recognized by Lower Merion Township as a legal single family building lot (buyer to confirm all zoning and permitting requirements). This lot, held by the same family for generations, is being sold by the
Welcome to 191 Presidential Boulevard... where luxury meets effortless living.From the moment you arrive at the elegant entrance, you won’t lift a finger...around the clock, your car door is opened for you, your packages are whisked away & your vehicle is valet-parked with ease. A uniformed doorman welcomes you into the gracious lobby & into a lifestyle defined by pure elegance &
Welcome to The Corinthian – Bala Cynwyd’s Premier Full-Service CondominiumExperience luxury living at The Corinthian, a prestigious full-service building just minutes from Center City. This elegant community offers 24/7 concierge service, valet parking, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a private conference room complete with a caterer’s kitchen—perfect for entertaining or business
Welcome home to this bright and airy one-bedroom condo in Sutton Terrace, a luxury building offering top-tier amenities including a 24-hour doorman, outdoor swimming pool with cabana, fully equipped gym, library, and more. Step into an expansive open-concept living and dining area featuring beautiful hardwood floors and abundant closet space. This spacious 1,110-square-foot unit also includes a
Mint-condition, must-see home. 36 Clwyd Road is a spacious corner townhouse located in the garden-style, gated community known as The Court at Saint Asaph’s. Enjoy Main Line living without the maintenance. One of only twelve residences, this is among the largest homes in the community—and the only one with a private rear deck. This joyful, light-filled home is exceptionally spacious and in
Fantastic opportunity to build your dream home in the heart of Bala Cynwyd! This .30-acre corner property offers endless potential—whether you choose to design a custom residence or reimagine the existing 1,200 sq ft, 2-bedroom, 1-bath home currently on site. Located in one of Lower Merion’s most desirable neighborhoods, this property sits just steps from the Belmont Hills Library, community
This home is spectacular, & oozing with charm! The covered front porch welcomes you in to the beautiful, open-concept Living and Dining areas, flooded with natural light, perfect for entertaining or daily life. The sleek Kitchen is a chef's dream featuring a large, granite-topped island, an abundance of both cabinetry and open shelving, stainless appliances, a perfect pantry closet, a large
Welcome to this stunning, fully renovated 1-bedroom, 1-bath condominium in the prestigious 191 Presidential building. This bright & inviting condo features a new, spacious open floor plan with multiple closets, that seamlessly blends modern style with everyday comfort. The brand-new kitchen open to the Living Room with glass doors to a spacious deck, is a true showstopper, boasting contemporary
Perfectly poised at the gateway to the Main Line, just steps from City Avenue, Blayr offers a premier address with seamless access to major highways, regional transit, and the vibrant heart of downtown Philadelphia. Inside our studio, one, two, and three-bedroom residences open wide with airy layouts, refined finishes, and a quietly sophisticated materials palette designed to elevate daily
Welcome to Cynwyd Court; this charming & thoughtfully updated 1-Bedroom, 1-Bath residence nestled in the heart of Bala Cynwyd. Located on Conshohocken State Rd (Unit 8D) is in a gated community complex, with assigned Parking. Your space will be number 22. Upon entry you are greeted by an inviting living space bathed in natural light, with durable hardwood floors & a layout that flows effortlessly
Welcome to 115 Montgomery Ave Unit 2, a bright and spacious 3-bedroom, 1-bath home in Bala Cynwyd. Unit 2 is located on the second floor of the building. Walk right in to an updated kitchen with stainless-steel appliances. Each bedroom offers ample space and sunlight, creating a comfortable and functional layout. The full bathroom features modern fixtures and washer and dryer in-unit. Driveway
WHERE style COMES naturally. Discover luxury and tranquility intertwined into one innovative community. Just outside of Philadelphia proper, The Cynwyd is your lifestyle haven: modern Bala Cynwyd apartments inspired by our locale. Connect to our town’s rich culture through our collection of local art and photography. Recharge, work, and socialize in spaces crafted for convenience, and revel in
Updated large twin with 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths for rent. From the front porch, enter the first floor bright Living Room with beautiful hardwood floors to a formal and large dining room to a nice renovated kitchen with stainless steel appliances with dishwasher, refrigerator, gas stove. Next to the kitchen is the laundry room with washer and dryer and a separate powder room. Door from the kitchen
Crossing the threshold of city culture and suburban comfort, 335 Bala, located on Righters Ferry Road in Bala Cynwyd, PA, embraces a life well-lived. Right across the river from Philadelphia, these brand-new, one and two-bedroom upscale apartments for rent offer the nearby green space of Fairmount Park, a plethora of retailers and restaurants at Suburban Square, and luxury amenities, only rivaled
3 Bedroom twin home with private driveway for parking, nice backyard and shed for storage. Updated kitchen with granite countertops. Finished basement for extra space. Located in award wining Lower Merion School District and within short commute to Center City Philadelphia, King of Prussia and Philadelphia International Airport
LAST REMAINING UNITS! - Directly off of Philadelphia’s desirable Main Line,The Delwyn at Bala Cynwyd is a testament to luxury living. In the middle of it all, your new address offers you exclusive access to shopping, restaurants, transportation, and premium comfort. Surrounded by local universities, parks, and the most charming historical streets of Bala Cynwyd, Narberth, and Ardmore, The Delwyn
Welcome to The Jordan Residences – Bala Cynwyd’s newest residential community!Experience elevated living, where every detail is thoughtfully designed to create the largest, most expansive apartment homes in Lower Merion Township. Modern comforts, natural light, timeless finishes and exceptional amenities define life at The Jordan. Every home features: 9′ ceiling heights. Remote workspace in
Experience luxury living at The Yard at Pencoyd Landing in Bala Cynwyd, just minutes from Philadelphia. Our pet-friendly 1 & 2 bedroom apartments offer upscale finishes, modern amenities, and scenic views near the Schuylkill River. Enjoy premium community features and a vibrant lifestyle. Schedule your private tour today and make The Yard your new home.
Welcome to 4322 Main Street! The second and third floors of this Historic property is an extraordinary one bedroom/plus apartment in the heart of Main Street, Manayunk. The spacious (940 s.f.) unit works especially well for the entrepreneur who wants the convenience of an Office/Residence. The private Main Street entrance leads to the building’s second floor. Toward the front is a large room with
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