Centered around a historic downtown and a college campus
West Chester, a small borough about 35 miles west of Philadelphia, is defined by its historic downtown area in its center and the expansive campus of West Chester University on the south side. In many ways, it serves as a self-contained city, as residents are able to find shops, restaurants, brand-name grocery stores and plenty of annual events without venturing to the City of Brotherly Love’s busy streets. “West Chester is one of those that people get obsessed with,” says Sean Elstone, a Realtor with Keller Williams Main Line Realty. “It’s beautiful, and it’s in horse country. There’s tons of green space, state parks and it’s easy enough to find on a map.”
West Chester University’s presence on the south side comes in the form of a sweeping campus with most of its central buildings surrounding an open, grassy area for students to hang out. The downtown area celebrates its small businesses with various events throughout the year, and outside of the downtown the area takes on the form of a suburb with expansive lawns and large homes. With a population of nearly 20,000, the city also won the 2017 Great American Main Street Award for the growth and revitalization of the commercial district. “People are totally fanatical about West Chester – people love to say they live in, or are from, West Chester,” Elstone says. “It has a beautiful downtown with a great local food scene.”
Friends gather to eat, drink, and laugh at the Gay Street Open-Air Market.
Gay and High Streets serve as the center of West Chester's lively dining scene.
West Chester University students let off steam with some disc throwing on The Quad.
The local pubs enjoy the increased foot traffic the annual Christkindlmarkt brings.
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Several main streets of shopping and dining
Gay, Chestnut and Market Streets all run parallel to each other in the downtown area, and are all connected by High Street, which runs perpendicular to the trio of thoroughfares. Within the historic area of downtown, residents can find a wide array of boutique shops, craft stores and more. Restaurants fall into a selection of breweries, taverns, grills and cafes. “All of it is in West Chester,” Elstone says of finding shopping or dining. “You don’t have to go anywhere. There are so many restaurants in the center of West Chester, and Market Street has a number of restaurants.” The downtown is its own hub, meaning residents won’t have to venture out to Philadelphia. Historic sites include the Lincoln Building, where the first biography of Abraham Lincoln was published.
Residents can also engage in a mixture of events, be it as small as a karaoke night or as large as street festivals. The Gay Street Open-Air Market was first launched in 2021 and has taken place every year since, where four blocks of Gay Street are shut down from Friday to Monday mornings, each weekend from early May to the end of September. Its aim is to bring the community together, and local stores and restaurants set up shop outdoors for residents to stroll through. Grocery stops include a GIANT in the downtown area and a ShopRite to the east.
Red brick sidewalks contribute to West Chester's hometown feel.
West Chester has many historic sites such as the Lincoln Building on Market Street.
West Chester residents have several grocery options such as ShopRite along Rt 3.
Walking and window shopping are popular pastimes in West Chester.
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Commemorating aviation, music, wine and more
Besides the weekly market extravaganza from spring to early fall, residents have no shortage of other events and landmarks. Less than 5 miles north of the region, the American Helicopter Museum and Education Center has more than 40 aircraft for locals to view, including several that allow visitors to get an inside look. Live music fills the air at the Turks Head Music Festival, which has endured for over 40 years and celebrates music, arts and more.
Wineries are also in the area, with a pair of prominent establishments each less than 10 miles away. “There are a bunch of wineries in the area, and Chaddsford Winery is probably the shining star,” Elstone says. “Longwood Gardens isn’t far away. The area is known for farms and horse farms, so there’s a lot of agriculture.” Residents can get a full experience of the wineries by taking to the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail.
The American Helicopter Museum is a hidden gem known to few outside West Chester.
Chaddsford Winery provides West Chester folks with a fun place to enjoy local wines.
The appeal of the West Chester Grower's Market is the variety of products available.
Live music can be seen and heard along the length of the Gay Street Open-Air Market.
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A city centered around West Chester University
The West Chester Area School District is comprised of 11 elementary schools, three middle schools and three high schools, and Niche gives the district as a whole an A rating. West Chester University’s campus sprawls on the south side of the area, with a central open grassy area surrounded by the school buildings. “It feels a little bit more like a main street USA kind of town, and it’s a university town at the same time,” Elstone says. “West Chester University is the heart and soul of West Chester, and it’s a big factor in employment and student housing.”
The school is more than 150 years old and has an undergraduate enrollment of nearly 15,000, along with around 3,000 postgraduate students. “There’s a lot of longtime residents in the center of town, but downtown, a lot of it is rentals for students,” Elstone says. “A lot are local southeastern Pennsylvania residents that will commute, but you probably have 5,000 to 8,000 students in downtown West Chester.” The school’s notable alumni include First Lady Jill Biden and University of Connecticut women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma.
Brandywine reek runs through West Chester and connects with the Christina River in Delaware.
Some call West Chester a suburb of Philadelphia but it's really a city all its own.
A young family takes advantage of a sunny February day in West Chester.
A four-legged West Chester resident asserts his rights over a stump in Everhart Park.
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Nearby highways, but distant from the city
The West Chester Bypass and Route 202 are the closest major roads. The bypass connects the area with major interstates like 76 and 95, and the closest access to Interstate 95 is around 15 miles south in Wilmington. Getting to Philadelphia by car requires a trip of over 30 miles east. “People are living in West Chester to not have to go to Philadelphia for anything except sports and to use the international airport,” Elstone says. “Generally speaking, they are more likely to go to Delaware than Philadelphia. They’re close enough that they can.” SEPTA public transportation services include buses and trains; for rail travel, residents can head about 5 miles north to the Exton stop. Philadelphia International Airport sits a bit closer than the city itself, just under 25 miles away.
Various park sizes and golf courses
A number of parks are scattered in and around West Chester, ranging from smaller, pocket green spaces to more expansive tracts of land. The private West Chester Golf Club has a nine-hole course on the north side of the city. “They have their own park squares throughout the town, but once you get out of town, golf is everywhere that you look,” Elstone says. “Radley Run Country Club is up there, and there’s Hershey’s Mill Golf Club and White Manor Country Club. Brandywine Creek runs through the middle of West Chester, and it’s attached to that. The Brandywine Museum of Art is beautiful.” The three golf courses are all located less than 10 miles from West Chester, and the creek itself is a tributary of the Christina River.
The West Chester Golf Club is a private venue located just outside the downtown area.
At over 1100 acres, Longwood Gardens is the largest botanical garden in the US.
Everhart Park is a popular destination for fun and events such as Turk's Head Music Festival
The memorial fountain at Marshall Square Park is a West Chester landmark.
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Stately homes and a variety of townhouses
Homes in West Chester have a median selling price of $565,808, which is above the national median cost of $416,700 and significantly higher than the statewide median price. “West Chester is amazing,” Elstone says. “It’s like a ton of those stone, colonial, center-hall, beautiful homes. Everybody ends up with a much larger lot. The further out from Philly you go, the larger the lots get. The average is probably over an acre.”
Properties in the city only stay on market for around two weeks, and housing styles include Cape Cods and ranch-style homes along with the colonials. Single-family homes frequently cost anywhere from $550,000 to $1.5 million, depending on style and acreage. Townhouses are also popular in the area, and commonly cost between $350,000 and $700,000. Others can range into the million-dollar range. “Everybody’s got these big, beautiful trees in their yard, and if you drive three miles in any direction, you pass horse farms,” Elstone says. “I’m telling you, it’s gorgeous.”
On a yearly basis, West Chester receives almost a full foot of rainfall above the national mean, with 49 inches of rain recorded; the United States averages 38. Its 22 inches of snowfall are close to the national average of 28, and it experiences cold winters and warm summers due to its location in the northeastern United States.
Homes in West Chester come in many sizes including townhouses close to downtown.
Single-story ranches and Cape Cods with front yards can been throughout West Chester.
Newer, colonial homes with large yards can be found just outside downtown West Chester.
This modern, contemporary home sits on a large lot very close to downtown West Chester.
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Low crime rates in West Chester
West Chester is considered safer than 27% of cities in the United States, recording 17.36 offenses per 1,000 locals on an annual basis according to FBI data. It records about 34 violent crimes each year, as opposed to 305 property-based offenses.
Written By
Adam Cheek
Photography Contributed By
Jay Ratchford
Video By
Chris Norton
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Patricia Crane,
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On average, homes in West Chester, PA sell after 21 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in West Chester, PA over the last 12 months is $632,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Strategically repositioned to deliver exceptional value in today’s luxury market, this pre-inspected and extensively refreshed estate offers a rare combination of privacy, transparency, significant recent improvements, and move-in-ready living. Experience the tranquility of a magnificent estate setting while remaining connected to everything the region has to offer. Set on 8.67 acres within an
OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY Aug. 2, 2-4pm. Tired of boarding your horses? Always dreamed of owning your own small farm? Set on a gentle berm above the Brandywine River Valley, this exceptional, bucolic farmette offers a rare blend of refined country living, equestrian convenience, and an unrivaled location within the award-winning Unionville-Chadds Ford School District — just three miles from the vibrant
Introducing 1048 Preserve Ln, a gorgeous single in the super desirable neighborhood of Rustin Walk, where there are great trails, sidewalks, and plenty of fun neighborhood events! It features a large covered flagstone front porch, stone and siding exterior, a two car attached garage, hardwood flooring throughout the 1st floor, a large open layout with a beautiful kitchen, upgraded appliances, a
Don't judge a book by its cover - this is an extremely spacious home offering nearly 4000 square ft of usable space, including a finished lower level studio with it's own full bath, private entrance and full sized windows. While this is not a recognized 2 unit home per West Chester Boro, it provides a great opportunity for multi generational living, house hacking, or a guest suite with it's own
**207 Seal Lane | West Chester, PA** Welcome to **207 Seal Lane**, a beautifully reimagined **3-bedroom, 2-full-bath** home offering **1,649 square feet** of thoughtfully designed living space in one of **West Goshen Township's** most established and desirable neighborhoods. Surrounded by mature trees, well-maintained homes, and neighbors who have invested in updating and enhancing their
Strategically repositioned to deliver exceptional value in today’s luxury market, this pre-inspected and extensively refreshed estate offers a rare combination of privacy, transparency, significant recent improvements, and move-in-ready living. Experience the tranquility of a magnificent estate setting while remaining connected to everything the region has to offer. Set on 8.67 acres within an
OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY Aug. 2, 2-4pm. Tired of boarding your horses? Always dreamed of owning your own small farm? Set on a gentle berm above the Brandywine River Valley, this exceptional, bucolic farmette offers a rare blend of refined country living, equestrian convenience, and an unrivaled location within the award-winning Unionville-Chadds Ford School District — just three miles from the vibrant
Introducing 1048 Preserve Ln, a gorgeous single in the super desirable neighborhood of Rustin Walk, where there are great trails, sidewalks, and plenty of fun neighborhood events! It features a large covered flagstone front porch, stone and siding exterior, a two car attached garage, hardwood flooring throughout the 1st floor, a large open layout with a beautiful kitchen, upgraded appliances, a
Set on 2.4 picturesque acres in West Chester, 355 Ridley Creek Lane offers a rare blend of privacy, natural beauty, and spacious living. This expansive home features over 4,100 square feet of living space with 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, including a main-floor primary bedroom with a full bath, wrap-around closet, two skylights, tall windows, and direct access to the deck. The dramatic two-story
A remarkably updated and upgraded beauty is turnkey ready and ready as soon as you are. Nestled right in that ultra quiet, yet super convenient corner of East Bradford that connects you to life in the borough without the noise, traffic, and parking stress. This very tranquil setting is the one you've been seeking. Majestic trees, yet plenty of dappled light to filter into your office, bedrooms,
Welcome to Riverside at Chadds Ford, one of the area's most sought-after communities!This beautiful brick-front Colonial offers an exceptional blend of space, comfort, and versatility, all within the award-winning Unionville-Chadds Ford School District.Step inside to a welcoming foyer flanked by formal living and dining rooms, perfect for entertaining family and friends. The heart of the
Location, location, location! Opportunities like this rarely come along. Just a one-minute walk from the heart of vibrant Downtown West Chester, this beautifully updated, move-in-ready townhome offers the perfect blend of timeless character, modern upgrades, and an unbeatable lifestyle. Step inside 229 E. Market Street and you'll immediately appreciate the fresh neutral paint, charming millwork,
Well-maintained twin home conveniently located near downtown West Chester, providing easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and local amenities. The property features a private fenced backyard with a covered patio, storage shed, and off-street parking for two vehicles. A covered front porch offers additional outdoor living space. The interior includes a spacious living and dining area, a
Welcome home to 1345 Wooded Knolls a beautifully maintained colonial in the highly sought-after Knolls of Birmingham community in West Chester, PA. A custom front porch overhang sets an elegant tone from the moment you arrive, complemented by a freshly seal-coated driveway, manicured landscaping, and a classic colonial facade that delivers serious curb appeal before you even step
Welcome to 1345 Carolannes Way, a rare 2.3-acre estate homesite in a gated community, offering openspace, privacy, and sweeping views of the Chester County hillside. This lot provides the ideal setting to build a custom legacy property. Homes within the community are thoughtfully spaced, with substantial open space creating a cohesive, estate-level environment. Enjoy gorgeous sunsets and a
Exceptional value - heat and hot water are included, as are trash, recycling, water and sewer. Super convenient one floor living - everything has been updated too. There's nice courtyard out front for summer hangouts, grilling and gardening. Inside there's a spacious living room with new flooring that runs into the hallway and bathroom. Living room TV is included. The kitchen has all new
Beckon Collective is the destination for luxury apartments in West Chester. With contemporary designer finishes our spacious studio, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, offer endless comforts to help you love life here. Take advantage of our resort-style amenities or venture out to the exceptional dining and shopping options available with our unparalleled location in Chester County. Contact our office
Recently renovated top to bottom 3 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home with off street parking for 2 cars! As you enter the home you will notice the open layout and the brand new flooring. The living room is very large and has plenty of room for your furniture. This opens right up to the brand new eat-in kitchen with white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, Quartz countertops, a convenient island, and
Jefferson at Westtown, great for West Chester University students or for families! We are a luxury apartment community located in historic West Chester, Pennsylvania. We have upgraded all of our unit interiors with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and newly refinished cabinets. In addition, residents will be able to indulge in a resort-style pool, 24 hour fitness center, state of
Welcome to 331 Galway Drive in the Village of Shannon, a spacious and well-maintained townhome in the desirable West Chester area—available July 1. This beautifully updated rental offers a flowing open-concept main level featuring a generous living room with a cozy gas fireplace, a formal dining area, and a large eat-in kitchen with a gas range. Enjoy easy indoor-outdoor living with direct access
Live a life you love at Golf Club Apartments in West Goshen in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Choose from studio, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments for rent, situated close to West Chester Pike for the perfect pairing of both comfort and convenience. When it comes to home, the details matter. Here, thoughtful in-home features like air conditioning and community amenities like a swimming pool help
Recently renovated 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom plus finished basement which could be great for an office or home gym! This West Chester townhome has been completely upgraded top to bottom with beautiful finishes throughout. As you enter the home you will notice the beautiful light oak vinyl plank flooring and crown molding in the living room. The kitchen is gorgeous with soft close white cabinetry
Where Nature, Location & Convenience Unite, at Cambridge Hall Apartments in West Chester, PA!Aside from our ideal location and local conveniences, we have a lot to offer within the 14 acre setting of our Cambridge Hall Apartments community of West Chester, Pennsylvania. Eighty-six percent of our grounds are open land, devoted to landscaping, recreation, pool & parking. Savor the peace and
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome in the desirable Willistown Woods community, located within the award-winning Great Valley School District. Offering an open and inviting floor plan, this home features stunning Brazilian hardwood flooring throughout the main and second levels, creating a warm and elegant living space. The spacious living and dining rooms are
Explore the Metropolitan East Goshen apartment community in West Chester, PA, and enjoy one of the best locations nestled in East Goshen Township. Featuring spacious floor plans, view more details about our pet-friendly 1- and 2-bedroom apartment rentals, including our luxury East Goshen Estates 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment homes. Located minutes to public transportation and Routes 476,
Newly Renovated 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment right in West Chester! This 2nd floor apartment has off street parking and has been updated from top to bottom! It has a nice open floor plan, a new kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a gorgeous bathroom, spacious bedrooms, central heating and air, and laundry in the unit. There is also a nice rear backyard. It is a very short drive into the
Welcome to Metropolitan West Goshen, ideally situated in the charming community of West Chester, PA. Our property offers an array of living spaces, including stylish 1-bedroom flats and spacious 2- and 3-bedroom townhomes, each featuring inviting private entrances that provide a sense of home from the moment you arrive.Step inside to discover modern, updated kitchens equipped with all the
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