Single-family homes, townhouses and local restaurants all coexistalongside the Delaware River in Bristol, a city of almost 10,000 residents 20 miles north of Philadelphia. Bristol traces its roots back almost 350 years, and in the past operated as a hub of manufacturing thanks to the presence of shipyards, textile mills and more on the river. “It’s a very historic type of area, meaning things like a home façade can’t be changed,” says Jake Toyberman, an associate broker and Realtor with Homestarr Realty. “There have been numerous amounts of new construction and condo developments. You see some condos and rehabbed homes coming on.”
Today, Bristol has evolved into a bustlng city, complete with a vibrant downtown. Riverside parks host concerts and annual festivals while several main thoroughfares are lined with local restaurants and, throughout much of the city, older homes intermingle with contemporary establishments to give Bristol character and life. “The nice feature is you are close to the water,” Toyberman says. “It’s an up-and-coming area.”
With its proximity to the water its no wonder why residents love living in Bristol.
Enjoy the bounce houses at the Bristol Township Touch A Truck event in Bristol.
1/2
Residential homes close to the river
Much of Bristol is residential, its houses intermingling with local restaurants minutes away from the riverfront. Its gridded streets are lined with a mixture of mid-century single-family homes and townhouses with a median price of about $350,000, a price point that is below the national median. “They’re all older homes, for the most part,” Toyberman says. “If someone’s really wanting to start out in an affordable area, this could be an ideal opportunity.” Single-family homes are mostly Cape Cods and ranch-style homes, with some split-levels, Victorians and colonial-styles mixed in, and most range from about $300,000 to $400,000. Townhouses typically cost between $250,000 and $350,000.
Residents can expect cold winters in the Bristol area, and the snowy season can last from November to March.
Enjoy the condominiums with a river view in Bristol.
Gaze upon the Row homes with covered porches in the Bristol.
1/2
Local restaurants on several main streets
Close to the river, Mill Street and Market Street parallel each other southward to Radcliffe Street, which runs close to the riverside. Residents can find many local restaurants there as part of Bristol’s active waterfront area, ranging from international flavors and taprooms to casual cafes and breakfast spots. “The downtown has some vibrancy to it,” Toyberman says. “It’s definitely been picking up over the last few years. You have some older establishments, like dive bars, but you also have some newer establishments as well. It’s essentially an up-and-coming area.” On the east side of the city, Farragut Avenue is also lined with local stops, including several pubs. Grocery shoppers can head to several area markets, or to multiple nearby chain stores including Aldi and Giant.
Dog and Bull Brew and Music House has delicious craft beers in Bristol.
Order some lunch at one of the vendors in the Bristol Amish Market in Bristol.
1/2
Exploring Burlington Island in the Delaware River
Bristol Township Municipal Park is close by and offers sports facilities, a splash pad, trails and a stage, which is fronted by an open field for concerts. Multiple small state parks and recreational facilities sit nearby, including the Grundy Ice Arena. Several trails run through the area, like the Bristol Spurline Trail that extends from Delaware Canal State Park, and the Silver Lake Nature Center encompasses over 450 acres of land north of Bristol. Burlington Island sits in the Delaware River just off the banks of Bristol. The island spans around 300 acres, and with almost a third of its acreage taken up by a small lake, is popular for recreation on the water or dry land. The river itself is a common site for recreation, as well.
Sit by the water and enjoy the view at Bristol Lions Park.
Walk along the paved walking path at the Bristol Waterfront.
1/2
Annual festivities on the waterfront
Bristol Waterfront Park, known locally as the Wharf, is a hub for the city and its community. The Bristol Lions Club Summer Concert Series hosts a variety of bands at the Lions Park Gazebo on the Wharf’s grounds on many Sundays during the summer, and visitors can also fish, view monuments, eat outside and more at the park. Annual festivals, including Juneteenth and Celtic Heritage Day celebrations, take place at the waterfront park, as well. The borough also hosts a Sunday Stroll on many weekends, where locals can wander Mill Street and interact with vendors, listen to live music and more.
A nice turnout for the Bristol Township Touch A Truck event in Bristol.
Friendly vendors with creative crafts at the Bristol Borough Sunday Stroll in Bristol.
1/2
A three-school pipeline for Bristol students
The Bristol Borough School District provides educational services to students in the area, scoring a B-minus with Niche. The district encompasses one elementary school, which earns a B-minus, one C-plus-rated middle school and one high school, which receives a B-minus. The private Our Lady of Grace Catholic School sits less than 10 miles north and scores an A with Niche. The Gene and Marlene Epstein Campus at Lower Bucks campus of Bucks County Community College sits just north of Bristol.
Keystone Elementary School is in Bristol offers a diverse academic cirriculum.
Welcome to Pennwood Middle School serving the Bristol community.
1/2
Commuting to larger cities north and south of Bristol
Bristol Pike runs through parts of the city on the north side. Drivers can find on-ramps to Interstate 95 less than 3 miles away from central Bristol, while access points to Interstates 295 or 276 are both less than 5 miles west. Trenton is about 11 miles north and Philadelphia is just over 20 miles south, meaning both cities are within driving distance for commuters. “There’s easy living and amenities,” Toyberman says. “It has easy access to the highways up to New York, down to Washington, D.C. and to New Jersey. It’s very commuter-friendly.”
Bristol is also linked to Trenton and Philadelphia by a SEPTA station, providing rail transit to both cities. SEPTA also operates buses along multiple thoroughfares. “It’s centrally located, so you can just hop over to any point when needed,” Toyberman says. “It’s really a great location.”
Decreasing crime rates in Bristol
According to the Pennsylvania Uniform Crime Reporting System, the Bristol Borough Police Department recorded slight decreases in both property and violent crime from 2023 to 2024.
Written By
Adam Cheek
Photography Contributed By
Mitchell Birnbaum
Video By
Daniel Willingham
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Joe Mccarthy,
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Bristol, PA sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Bristol, PA over the last 12 months is $379,500, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to the Condos at Radcliffe Court on the Delaware, Bucks County’s premier new-construction condominium community.This exceptional development features 96 affordable luxury residences and represents the largest residential development ever built in Historic Bristol Borough. Building upon an already successful townhome neighborhood, the Condos at Radcliffe Court uniquely blends
There’s more to this home than meets the eye, with a flexible split-level layout, comfortable living spaces, and a backyard that’s ready to be enjoyed. Hardwood floors and a vaulted ceiling bring character to the main level, where the living and dining areas flow naturally together. The kitchen offers white cabinetry, generous counter space, and a bright breakfast area overlooking the outdoors.
Nancy CassidyKeller Williams Real Estate-Langhorne
Welcome to the Condos at Radcliffe Court on the Delaware, Bucks County’s premier new-construction condominium community.This exceptional development features 96 affordable luxury residences and represents the largest residential development ever built in Historic Bristol Borough. Building upon an already successful townhome neighborhood, the Condos at Radcliffe Court uniquely blends
421 Otter Street- Check Out This One of a Kind Four Unit Building with Four Detached Garages on a HUGE Lot! This is One of Four Multi-Unit Buildings Being Sold as a Bundle! With a Freshly Painted Exterior and Newer Roof and All Residential Units Rented, This is Truly Something You Don't Want to Pass Up On! This Building Shows two 1 Bedroom 1 Bath Units and 2 Two Bedroom 1 Bath Units. All Four
Janine Allan-DeCarloAnthony Messina Real Estate, LLC
Welcome to the Condos at Radcliffe Court on the Delaware, Bucks County’s premier new-construction condominium community.This exceptional development features 96 affordable luxury residences and represents the largest residential development ever built in Historic Bristol Borough. Building upon an already successful townhome neighborhood, the Condos at Radcliffe Court uniquely blends
There’s more to this home than meets the eye, with a flexible split-level layout, comfortable living spaces, and a backyard that’s ready to be enjoyed. Hardwood floors and a vaulted ceiling bring character to the main level, where the living and dining areas flow naturally together. The kitchen offers white cabinetry, generous counter space, and a bright breakfast area overlooking the outdoors.
Nancy CassidyKeller Williams Real Estate-Langhorne
Welcome to the Condos at Radcliffe Court on the Delaware, Bucks County’s premier new-construction condominium community.This exceptional development features 96 affordable luxury residences and represents the largest residential development ever built in Historic Bristol Borough. Building upon an already successful townhome neighborhood, the Condos at Radcliffe Court uniquely blends
Great 3 bedroom 1 bath home in Historic Bristol Borough. A few features of this home are roof 2022, hardwood floors thru out, updated windows and 1 car garage. Terrific home on a tree lined street. Close to public transportation, Septa train station, Grundy library and a short walk to the Bristol river front.
Welcome to the Condos at Radcliffe Court on the Delaware, Bucks County’s premier new-construction condominium community.This exceptional development features 96 affordable luxury residences and represents the largest residential development ever built in Historic Bristol Borough. Building upon an already successful townhome neighborhood, the Condos at Radcliffe Court uniquely blends
The Burlington, a 1,500 square foot twin ranch villa, offers open-concept living with two sizeable bedrooms, two full bathrooms, den, and a two-car garage.Upon entering the home through the private, side front door, you step into the spacious living and dining area that flows nicely into the functional kitchen with well-appointed cabinetry and countertops, stainless steel appliances, a
16352 River View Court – Best River View in the Development Enjoy the premier Delaware River views in all of Radcliffe Court from this bright 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo. Expansive windows and a private balcony deliver unobstructed waterfront scenery that few units can match. The open living area flows into a modern kitchen with white cabinetry and stainless appliances. Both bedrooms are
In the Heart of Bristol Borough, Just a Few Doors Down From Borough Hall, Lies This Freshly Painted Quad Investment Property. This Property is One of Four Multi-Unit Buildings Being Sold as a Bundle! This Stunning Investment Property Features Four 2 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Units With No Vacancies! The Basement Presents Opportunity for Even More Income With Storage Areas That Tenants Could Rent as Well
Janine Allan-DeCarloAnthony Messina Real Estate, LLC
Welcome to 3213 Malinda Drive, a well-maintained brick-front ranch offering comfortable one-level living with thoughtful updates and plenty of potential. Step inside to a welcoming living room featuring luxury vinyl plank flooring and a wood stove. The updated kitchen offers white shaker cabinetry, white countertops, and a large island with a butcher block countertop, providing plenty of
Welcome to Hearthstone at West Bristol, a sought-after 55+ active adult community offering comfortable, low maintenance living. Built in 2018, this secure building features elevator access, interior mailboxes, providing both convenience and piece of mind. This spacious second floor condo offers true one-level living with no steps. Filled with natural light from an abundance of windows, the home
This is your opportunity to own a brand-new, custom-designed home in a sought-after location. Offering just over 2,500 sq ft of living space, these residences feature 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a full unfinished basement, and a 1-car garage. With only 6 lots available, these homes are designed to offer both comfort and flexibility, perfect for a wide range of buyers. Upon entering, you'll be greeted
Welcome to Green Park Apartments, a comfortable and well-maintained community offering convenient living in a peaceful residential setting. Designed with everyday comfort in mind, Green Park Apartments provides thoughtfully laid-out homes and a welcoming atmosphere residents enjoy coming home to.Our apartment homes feature bright living spaces, functional floor plans, and generous
Enjoy comfortable, affordable living in a well-maintained apartment community featuring spacious floor plans, convenient amenities, and a location close to shopping, dining, and major roadways. It's the perfect place to call home!
Welcome to Delaview Apartments! Our convenient waterfront property puts you exactly where you want to be, surrounded by stunning views and a peaceful setting. We offer our residents the finest in modern amenities, including upgraded kitchens, renovated bathrooms, and a private balcony or patio with every unit. With a wide variety of apartment designs, Delaview Apartments has a living space for
Bristol Gardens is under new management! Every apartment has undergone a complete renovation and features stainless steel appliances for a sleek and contemporary living space! We are located next to everything you need or want! Bristol Gardens is only twenty minutes from Center City and South Jersey. Take a tour today!
Welcome home to 237 Cleveland St, in the sought-after Harriman section of Historic Bristol Borough. This freshly updated Apartment features two bedrooms, one bath, and its own separate entrance that also has a Large front deck and a decent-sized back deck. This updated unit is cozy and ready for you to make it your own. P.S. The Landlord prefers a 2 or even a 3-year lease. The best part is no
Jonathan GeftmanAmerican Dream Realty Service Corp.
Spacious 3-bedroom apartment featuring hardwood floors, new appliances, great natural lighting, and a welcoming front porch in the heart of Bristol. This spacious unit offers comfortable living with plenty of room to make it your own. Located just minutes from Bristol Wharf and the vibrant Mill Street district, you’ll enjoy easy access to restaurants, shops, and local favorites. Whether you’re
Welcome home to 79 Manor Circle, the exceptional residence you’ve been waiting for. From the moment you arrive, this home makes an unforgettable first impression. Its striking stone exterior hints at the character within, while the interior reveals an exceptional blend of space, style, and thoughtful design. Offering approximately 3,750 square feet of finished living space, 4 bedrooms, and 4 full
This 3-Bedroom/1-Bathroom Single-Family Home is located on a quiet, residential street in Bristol. Centrally located with plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment nearby, you will absolutely love this location.Arrive at the home and immediately fall in love with the large front yard and well-manicured landscaping. There is a large driveway for added convenience and a large tree
123 Mill Street, Bristol Borough, PA 19007Welcome to this spacious second-floor apartment located just one block from the historic Bristol Borough waterfront and wharf.Offering three nicely sized bedrooms and 1½ bathrooms, this inviting apartment provides plenty of room to live, work, and unwind. The full kitchen features newer appliances and new flooring, while the bedrooms and dining
Kenneth BelloHomeSmart Nexus Realty Group - Princeton
Location location location one block from synder girotti across the street from super market three blocks away from Mill st this renovated 3 Br 1 bath with new central air system just in time for summer
Large 3 bedroom 1 bath in Bristol PA. Recently renovated single home with new flooring. Great front, rear and side yards. This gorgeous home is situated in a friendly community. This home is just waiting for you to move in. The backyard is fully fenced with lots of play space for the kids or pets. An application for Lease will require a $40.00 non-refundable credit and background check, payable
Waterfront Living - 4 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom. Welcome to this waterfront living apartment at its finest! This stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom large apartment is on 2nd/3rd in Historic Bristol Borough . Hardwood floors, lovingly maintained, updated bathrooms and kitchens with washer dryer in unit. Ceiling fans thru out , fabulous views and great location. Large windows overlooking Radcliffe Street and
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
