$857,989Average Value$302Average Price per Sq Ft34Homes 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
Lynn Berger,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Bala Cynwyd, PA sell after 44 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Bala Cynwyd, PA over the last 12 months is $604,500, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
190 Presidential Blvd #513 offers a polished, full-service living experience in The Corinthian, one of Bala Cynwyd’s most established and sought-after condominium communities. This 2 bedroom, 2 full and 1 half bath residence includes a versatile bonus room currently used as a home office, creating a layout that adapts easily to both everyday living and work-from-home flexibility. The space is
Set gracefully along Amherst Road in Lower Merion, this beautifully reimagined stone Colonial fully renovated just four years ago, offers the perfect blend of timeless character and modern sophistication. Sunlight pours through deep-set windows, creating a bright, airy ambiance that today’s buyers immediately appreciate. The main level is thoughtfully designed for the way people live and
Step into a world of timeless elegance with this stunning Colonial home, with tons of living space, in the desirable Bala Cynwyd. Built in 1917, lovingly maintained and beautifully updated, this residence boasts a remarkable blend of classic charm and modern amenities, offering 3,248 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. Inside, discover 6 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, perfect for
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
*****DOUBLE LOT****Investor and Builder Special! Rare opportunity in highly sought-after Bala Cynwyd / Lower Merion Township. This 1,256 sq. ft., 2-bedroom, 1-bath single-family home and is being sold as-is with plans available for demolition and new construction of a stunning 2,500–2,700 sq. ft. residence. Located in the desirable Belmont Hills neighborhood, just minutes from top-rated Lower
Sun-Drenched Luxury on the Main Line The View You’ve Been Looking For Experience resort-style living in this beautifully renovated, 8th-floor sanctuary. Positioned on the desirable southern curve of the iconic 191 Presidential building, Unit 826 offers a rare Southern/Southwestern exposure. Enjoy a "wall of windows" that floods the home with natural light all afternoon, overlooking the tranquil
Reduced 2 Sell!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 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
When Only the Best Will do! See this fully renovated corner open concept 2 bedroom 2 bath unit with 1 indoor garage space, at 191 Presidential Condominium, a full service amenity rich Premier building on the Main Line ! Boasting 1764 sq. ft. of sun filled living from the 2 large picture windows, entrance hall with sliding glass doors , 2 coat closets, living room with wood paneled wall/ built in
Welcome to this sun filled apartment with fabulous views from every room. Gracious entry with a large coat closet. Sweeping views from the very large living room with wonderful built-ins for extra storage. Beautiful large terrace off of the living room. Attached dining area next to the large kitchen with a breakfast area and washer/dryer. There are two very large bedrooms, the primary has an
190 Presidential Blvd #513 offers a polished, full-service living experience in The Corinthian, one of Bala Cynwyd’s most established and sought-after condominium communities. This 2 bedroom, 2 full and 1 half bath residence includes a versatile bonus room currently used as a home office, creating a layout that adapts easily to both everyday living and work-from-home flexibility. The space is
Welcome to 40 Old Lancaster Road #215, a spacious & sun-filled 2nd-floor residence in the desirable Latch’s Lane Condominiums. Offering 2 bedrooms & 2 full baths, hardwood floors, loads of storage...plus in unit washer & dryer, this well-designed home combines comfort, convenience & a sought-after location in the heart of Merion Station.Enter the elegant, marble foyer with large coat closet &
Set gracefully along Amherst Road in Lower Merion, this beautifully reimagined stone Colonial fully renovated just four years ago, offers the perfect blend of timeless character and modern sophistication. Sunlight pours through deep-set windows, creating a bright, airy ambiance that today’s buyers immediately appreciate. The main level is thoughtfully designed for the way people live and
Welcome to Unit 1-G at the Greenhouse Condominium, ideally situated in the highly desirable Bala Cynwyd community. Nestled within a serene, park-like setting featuring mature trees, lush landscaping, and a tranquil stream, this move-in ready 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and natural beauty. This first-floor unit provides easy, stair-free access and
The survey has been completed! 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
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
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
Discover luxury living at Presidential City, where stylish design meets unmatched comfort in Philadelphia. Choose from spacious studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with sunlit interiors and premium finishes. Enjoy sleek kitchens with stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops, plus bathrooms with Italian tile and soaking tubs. Beyond the apartment, indulge in resort-style
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
The Yard at Pencoyd Landing offers upscale 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, just minutes from Philadelphia and the scenic Schuylkill River. Designed for modern living, each residence features open kitchens with islands or breakfast bars, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, in-home washers and dryers, floor-to-ceiling windows, and expansive balconies in
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
Refresh and recharge in your spacious apartment in Philadelphia at Vista. Every home comes equipped with in unit washer and dryer and a private balcony or patio. Your time matters, so we skip the hidden fee shuffle. Our prices include required monthly costs, no extra math, no mystery, just the real number. Select units feature upgraded interiors and wood style flooring. This pet friendly and
Welcome to Metropolitan Bala Cynwyd, where modern convenience meets classic charm. Located in the heart of Bala Cynwyd, PA, our apartments offer top-of-the-line amenities to enhance your living experience. Each unit is equipped with a washer and dryer for added convenience, stainless steel appliances with an ice maker, and beautiful hardwood floors throughout. Whether you're cooking in the
Bala Apartments has served Philadelphia residents for over a century, offering pet-friendly studio, one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes. Choose from renovated and standard apartments for rent off City Avenuenear dining, shopping, entertainment, PCOM, and St. Josephs University. Park in our garage or street; access amenities including on-site management, maintenance, a fitness center, and
Relax and unwind in the heart of Bala Cynwyd’s growing Arts District. 10 Montgomery offers spacious, thoughtfully designed two-bedroom apartments that balance comfort with convenience. With easy access to SEPTA, Saint Joseph’s University, Main Line Health, and Center City, staying connected is effortless. Inside, open layouts and generous living spaces create an easygoing place to unwind,
Canal House offers beautifully designed, upscale apartments located in an urban village that's convenient to everything. Built in 1847 as the Blantyre Mills, the building produced woolen blankets for the Union Army during the Civil War. Unique features of Canal House include the gated, landscaped courtyard, oversized windows, and views of the historic Manayunk Canal from most apartments.
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