Old farmhouses and rural land are an enduring legacy of Willistown. Settled by Welsh and English farmers in the early 1700s, the township retains its rustic appeal even as surrounding cities expand. "What draws people here is the opportunity to enjoy the natural aspect of Chester County," says Meghan McGarrigle, a Realtor with Keller Williams Real Estate who has 15 years of experience. "Willistown could be called horse country. There is a lot of beautiful farms, rolling hills and walking trails." Home to nature preserves and acreage properties, land is valued here over development, leading to fewer commercial options. However, with downtown Malvern to the north and Philly within 30 miles, urban amenities and robust job opportunities are within easy reach. The community's CAP Index Crime Score of 1 out of 10 is far below the national average of 4.
The quiet streets and mature woods are a key part of Willistown's charm.
There are still many farms among the rolling hills in Willistown.
1/2
Countryside homes on spacious acres
Stretching north to downtown Malvern, with countryside at its core, residential areas range from traditional sidewalk-connected neighborhoods closer to amenities to those set on private, spacious acres. "It's pretty traditional, colonial-type or farmhouse-type homes," McGarrigle says. Ranch-style properties, Cape Cods and custom-built New Traditionals add to the town's housing mix. Single-family properties are the dominant type, followed by townhouses and some condos. Prices start from $310,000 to $630,000 for modest residences for the area, including those needing updates. As homes and lots get bigger, prices rise from $630,000 to $1.2 million. The most luxurious and expansive properties sell from $1.3 million to $5.2 million. The majority of townhouses and condos cost from around $350,000 to $950,000. Some of the areas higher priced options were built in the last few years, showcasing modern designs.
Ranch style homes are just one of the many varieties of single-family homes in Willistown.
Rows of condos are one housing option in Willistown.
1/2
Public education through an A-rated district
Students are served by Great Valley School District, which earns an A rating from Niche and covers education through four elementary schools, one middle and one high school. While all schools in the district have A-ratings, Great Valley High School earns the highest score, with an A-plus. The school also ranks highly for the state and made U.S. News & World Report's 2023 to 2024 top 20 list, ranking as number 10.
General Wayne Elementary School is highly placed per US News & World Report's ranking.
Great Valley Middle School has over 1,000 students in grades 6-8 and serves Willistown.
Great Valley High School provides a 14:1 student to teacher ratio for Willistown students.
1/3
A large nature preserve in town and parks in Malvern
Recreation is diverse in Willistown. At its core is White Manor Country Club, offering a private 18-hole golf course and clubhouse perks, such as tennis courts and a swimming pool. To the south, the Okehocking Preserve features 180 acres of mixed-use trails winding through woodlands, meadows, and along Ridley Creek, with part of the preserve extending into the larger Ridley Creek State Park. Covering more than 2,600 acres, the state park invites outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, sledding and snowshoeing during the winter. Willistown's countryside is home to Devin Equestrian, where residents can board and train horses. On the town's northern edge, Malvern's neighborhood parks, such as Greentree Park — complete with sports fields and a playground — are within walking distance of some of Willistown's homes.
The White Manor Country Club offers a private 18-hole course among other amenities.
Willistown residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor spaces at Okehocking Preserve.
1/2
Some commercial options, but more in surrounding communities
Most shopping and dining are outside Willistown, but the township has a few highlights. Teikoku Restaurant serves Asian-fusion dishes, and Sugartown Strawberries sells seasonal produce and products. Just north, downtown Malvern's small, walkable downtown area has a range of local shops and boutiques, selling everything from women's clothing to furniture and hardware. Some of its stand-out eateries include Anthony's Pizza & Italian Restaurant and Flying Pig Saloon, a casual pub and grill. Nearby towns such as Paoli and West Chester provide more options, including grocery stores like Wegmans, ALDI and ACME Markets — all within 6 miles. Exton Square and King of Prussia Mall are within 12 miles for larger shopping trips.
Teikoku serves Asian fusion cuisine in Willistown.
Willistown residents can get seasonal goods at Sugertown Strawberries.
1/2
Celebrating community at Willistown Country Fair
Held in August at Greentree Park, the Willistown Country Fair marks the end of summer. This event brings the community together for its family-friendly atmosphere filled with local vendors, live music and various kids' activities such as face painting.
Ways to get around town and beyond
Sugartown Road, the township's first main route, still winds through Willistown, connecting it to downtown Malvern. Downtown Malvern provides a convenient SEPTA train station. "Or you could go to the Paoli station, so you are right between two stations going directly into Philly," McGarrigle says. The Paoli station is less than 4 miles from Willistown's core. Major routes, including Pennsylvania Route 3 and U.S. Route 30, also run through the area, while Route 202 and Highway 76 are nearby. For healthcare, Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital is located in Willistown, with Paoli Hospital is less than 9 miles away. Philadelphia International Airport is roughly 20 miles from Willistown.
The Malvern train station is nearby, so Willistown residents have easy access to Philadelphia.
Downtown Malvern is just a quick jaunt away for Willistown residents.
1/2
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Flash Craigie
Video By
Houston Knight
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Dawn Saunders,
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
What a warm and welcoming home! 2005 Westfield Ct offers a dynamic, light-filled floorplan with a seamless flow from the kitchen into the dining and living rooms. Bright with natural light, there’s a living room slider that leads to the back deck, and there’s a delightful 2-sided gas fireplace that acts as the focal point between rooms. Styled with plush carpeting and calming hues, these inviting
Welcome to this beautifully updated brick townhouse in desirable Willistown Township, located in the acclaimed Great Valley School District and the highly sought-after Rustmont Community. With over $135,000 in recent upgrades and a redesigned first floor completed in 2025, this home offers the perfect blend of modern style, comfort, and convenience. The jaw-dropping open floor plan showcases a
Rooted in the traditions of Chester County’s early Quaker homesteads, this remarkable property dates to 1699 and is surrounded by hundreds of acres of conserved open space and walking trails. The main house has been thoughtfully reimagined to align with today’s aesthetics while preserving its historic integrity and exceptional craftsmanship. The owner, a highly respected designer, carefully
Experience your private retreat in Radnor Hunt—a timeless 5-bedroom, 3 full/3 half-bath stone Colonial offering over 6,593 square feet of impeccably designed living space on two beautifully landscaped acres with a tranquil pond and fountain. Exceptional flagstone patios, lush specimen plantings, and an in-ground sprinkler system enhance the picturesque setting, while the outdoor fireplace and
The McElroy House - Set on five private acres in Willistown Township, The McElroy House is an extraordinary contemporary residence designed and built in 1975 by legendary builder Robert McElroy as his own family home. With its wooded backdrop, stream, and rare privacy, the property embodies the qualities McElroy championed throughout his career: architecture that grows from its landscape and
Located at 1004 Garrett Mill Road, this unique offering presents an opportunity to own a scenic parcel in a highly desirable Radnot Hunt setting. Set along one of the area’s designated scenic roads, the property encompasses approximately 10 acres surrounded by preserved open space and conservation land, offering exceptional privacy and natural beauty. The existing structure on the property is
Kate Van MeterClassic Real Estate of Chester County, LLC
Welcome to 17 Hickory Lane — a stunning traditional new construction home by local custom builder R. Custom Homes, perfectly positioned on a flat one-acre lot in sought-after Willistown Township within the Great Valley School District. A covered front entry with flagstone landing leads to a beautifully illuminated front door and welcoming foyer adorned with custom millwork and site finished
William (Bill) McGarrigleKeller Williams Real Estate -Exton
Introducing a new custom home coming soon to Willistown Township featuring public water, public sewer & natural gas. Just minutes from the heart of Malvern Borough! Located on Harvey Lane and crafted by respected local builder Craft Custom Homes, this property offers the rare opportunity to personalize your dream home from the ground up. Set on a level 1-acre lot in a quiet, established
William (Bill) McGarrigleKeller Williams Real Estate -Exton
SPECTACULAR STONE & STUCCO MANOR ON 4.2 PRIVATE ACRES! Gated entry leads to this magnificent home offering stunning views & complete privacy. Premium Main Line location just 640' from Radnor Hunt Club, near charming Malvern borough & minutes to White Manor Country Club. GRAND MAIN LEVEL: Soaring 20' marble foyer, sunken formal living room w/marble fireplace, elegant formal dining room, gourmet
What a warm and welcoming home! 2005 Westfield Ct offers a dynamic, light-filled floorplan with a seamless flow from the kitchen into the dining and living rooms. Bright with natural light, there’s a living room slider that leads to the back deck, and there’s a delightful 2-sided gas fireplace that acts as the focal point between rooms. Styled with plush carpeting and calming hues, these inviting
Welcome to this beautifully updated brick townhouse in desirable Willistown Township, located in the acclaimed Great Valley School District and the highly sought-after Rustmont Community. With over $135,000 in recent upgrades and a redesigned first floor completed in 2025, this home offers the perfect blend of modern style, comfort, and convenience. The jaw-dropping open floor plan showcases a
Bentley Homes is proud to unveil 39 Old Covered Bridge Road, our newest luxury estate home nestled on over 5 panoramic, breathtaking acres in the heart of Willistown Township; one of the most coveted and picturesque locations in the region. Situated in an established neighborhood, while offering unmatched privacy, natural beauty, and the rare opportunity to own on one of the township’s most
Welcome to this adorable Cape Code 2 bedroom, 1 bath one story home nestled in the highly desirable Paoli/Malvern area. A standout feature besides having central air are the solar panels providing long-term energy savings and more sustainable lifestyle. Freshly painted and floors recently re-stained. A/C unit motor replaced and new water heater installed in August. The driveway is very roomy, 4
Heavens, not making any more of this rare opportunity to be the next lucky stewards of this iconic Radnor Hunt Jewel. Set on a breathtaking 2.1-acre lot down a long butler loop driveway, this stunning stone residence, oversized spacious two-car garage with carriage doors, custom Sylvan 36,000-gallon pool, and grape-lined fence, offers every ingredient for gracious country living at its best. The
Charming 1 & 2 bedroom apartments in Malvern, PA with private entrances, cozy wood-burning fireplaces, walk-in closets, and private patios or balconies. AVE Malvern is situated along Suburban Philadelphias desirable Main Line offering breathtaking, panoramic views of the Great Valley. Youll be living at a retreat, but have the conveniences of being close to Philadelphia, brand new, on-site
Completely renovated 3-bedroom, 21⁄2-bath townhome in Willistown Knoll, located in the award-winning Great Valley School District. This beautiful home features quartz countertops, two-tone shaker cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and updated finishes throughout. The second floor offers a spacious primary suite with upgraded bath and luxury shower, plus a second bedroom with its own updated
Welcome Home to Heather Glen, where convenience and comfort meet. Our West Chester community offers comfortable two-bedroom apartments with amenities like a grilling area, in-home laundry, and off-street parking. Conveniently located near public transportation and along West Chester Pike, Heather Glen is designed with your comfort and convenience in mind.Renting shouldn't
2 bedroom, 1 bath unit in breathtaking condition, Living area and kitchen are an integral part of each other (open floor concept), 2 bedrooms with hall bath, ceramic tiled and hardwood floors, central air conditioned, on site parking for 2 cars. Laundry room w/washer/dryer, Newer replacement windows, Private entrance. Close to the hospital, the train and to Route #30. $65/adult application
Great opportunity to rent an updated twin home in the highly desirable town of Malvern! Schools are in the award winning Great Valley School District. This home boasts a beautiful white kitchen, with stainless steel appliances, black countertops, a tile backsplash and gas range. The open concept main level features Living/Dining combination with hardwood flooring, a shiplap accent wall in the
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.
