Moorestown

Spanning a long stretch of Burlington County near Philadelphia, Moorestown is a prime example of how a modern suburb blends contemporary and historic homes, natural spaces and development, and affordable housing options across various price points.

Patricia Fiume, an agent with ReMax of Cherry Hill, grew up nearby in the Maple Shade community. In recent years, she said, tons of people from other parts of New Jersey have been relocating to the Burlington County area thanks partly to its lower housing costs and proximity to Philadelphia. Of all the places they could be in South Jersey, she says many seek and choose Moorestown. "There's a lot more money in Moorestown," she says. "It has a phenomenal school system with wonderful programs. The downtown section is amazing, with so many restaurants. And then there's Strawbridge Lake, which goes along Route 38 and has all sorts of playgrounds, walking trails and places to sit and read."

It doesn't take long to see how Moorestown takes on a few different personalities. While its heart remains centered in Moorestown's old Main Street section, the community grew throughout the 20th century, adding several suburban-style housing tracts, modern retail centers, and a shopping mall. For less than $200,000, you can buy a contemporary town house or apartment condo. Closer to the community's $455,000 median sales price, you'll find bungalows, midcentury ranch-style houses and split-level homes from the 1970s. From there, prices can soar as high as $2.6 million, as the community includes tons of newly built single-family homes, large Colonial-inspired estates and impeccably renovated Queen Anne homes that add a touch of modern luxury to old-world class. "Anyone can find a house in the right price range," Fiume says. "There's something for everyone."

In Moorestown's historic Main Street section, you can dine at casual or upscale eateries. After enjoying a slice at La Vita's Pizza, consider stopping by the Brain Freeze Ice Cream Parlor for a brownie sundae or a scoop of vanilla with sprinkles (just remember to bring money as it's a cash-only business.) If you're looking to go out for a dinner date or brunch with a group of friends, bistro-like spots such as the Cubby Hole bistro and Japanese Hibachi-style restaurant Akira offer refined options for dining out. There are ample places to shop with various boutiques and salons on Main Street. But an even more extensive selection of places to shop and eat can be found in and around the Moorestown Mall. Located near the junctions of Interstate 295, Highway 73, Route 38, and the New Jersey Turnpike, the mall and a series of shopping centers and business parks keep the local economy pumping. While the 1960s-era mall has declined in popularity like other malls throughout the country, Fiume says the Boscov's department store remains busy as ever. She says redevelopment plans in the commercial site also show promise as medical offices, big box stores, supermarkets and restaurants open and grow.

Fiume says the highly rated Moorestown Township Public Schools attract many families to the area. With an A rating or better from Niche, the district's four elementary schools regularly succeed in establishing students for success as they grow and advance to William Allen Middle School and Moorestown High School. At the high school, more than half of the students enroll in advanced placement or honors programs. And with a nearly perfect graduation rate each year, Niche, New Jersey Monthly and Philadelphia Magazine have all recognized Moorestown High as one of the state's best public schools.

Despite its large size, the community features numerous parks and recreational areas that are evenly spread out, making it easy for residents to find solace in nature or a place to play outside. People let their pets run wild in one of the two fenced dog runs at the Swedes Run Fields and Dog Park. Alternatively, visitors can go on an extra-long walk along the trails outlining the large open fields. If you want to explore more natural space or get your feet wet, Strawbridge Lake Park invites visitors to have picnics by the water, jog along its trails or launch a kayak or paddle boat.