Best Philly Suburbs for Hybrid and Remote Workers
Summary
The rise of hybrid and remote work has reshaped what buyers prioritize when choosing where to live. In the Philadelphia suburbs, the conversation has shifted from “How fast is the commute?” to “How does this town support my daily life if I’m working from home most of the week?”
In 2026, buyers across the Main Line, Chester County, Bucks County, and select South Jersey suburbs are looking for a balance of workspace flexibility, walkability, connectivity, and quality of life. Towns that offer strong infrastructure, vibrant downtowns, access to green space, and occasional commuting convenience are seeing sustained demand.
This guide highlights the suburban communities best suited for hybrid and remote professionals—and explains why these locations are influencing home values and buyer behavior.
Table of Contents
How Hybrid Work Has Changed Suburban Demand
Key Features Remote Workers Should Look For
Main Line Towns That Blend Connectivity and Lifestyle
Chester County Communities Offering Space and Balance
Bucks County Options for Flexibility and Value
South Jersey Suburbs with Easy Access to Philadelphia
Home Features Driving Demand in 2026
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
Final Takeaways
1. How Hybrid Work Has Changed Suburban Demand
Before 2020, proximity to daily commuting routes largely dictated demand. Today, many professionals travel into Center City or regional offices only two or three days per week—if at all.
That shift has increased interest in suburbs that offer:
Comfortable home office space
Walkable amenities during the workday
Reliable transit access when needed
Outdoor recreation and community engagement
Larger homes without sacrificing connectivity
Suburbs that provide this balance have become especially attractive to professionals relocating from urban environments or downsizing their commute expectations.
2. Key Features Remote Workers Should Look For
Hybrid and remote buyers consistently prioritize:
Access to cafés, restaurants, and services for daytime flexibility
Parks and trails for mid-day breaks and wellness
Strong broadband infrastructure
Occasional transit access for meetings or travel
Larger homes or adaptable layouts
Established downtowns rather than purely residential subdivisions
These factors now influence pricing nearly as much as traditional commute metrics.
3. Main Line Towns That Blend Connectivity and Lifestyle
The Main Line remains a strong choice for hybrid professionals because it offers both suburban comfort and easy access to Philadelphia.
Wayne
Wayne’s walkable downtown, restaurants, and SEPTA access make it ideal for professionals who want activity without urban density.
Ardmore
With Suburban Square, regional rail access, and an active retail scene, Ardmore provides convenience during both work-from-home days and commuting days.
Bryn Mawr
Historic charm combined with proximity to Villanova University, local shops, and transit options creates an appealing live-work environment.
These towns allow residents to remain connected professionally while enjoying suburban quality of life.
4. Chester County Communities Offering Space and Balance
Chester County has seen increased demand from buyers seeking more space without sacrificing lifestyle amenities.
Malvern
Combines access to the Paoli/Thorndale rail line with a growing borough center and proximity to major employment corridors along Route 202.
West Chester
One of the most vibrant suburban downtowns in the region, offering restaurants, walkability, and a strong sense of community—ideal for remote professionals who want energy close to home.
Phoenixville
Known for its lively Bridge Street district and trail access, Phoenixville appeals to buyers seeking a balance of affordability, culture, and recreation.
These towns offer room to spread out while maintaining a connected feel.
5. Bucks County Options for Flexibility and Value
Bucks County has become increasingly attractive for hybrid workers relocating from Philadelphia or New Jersey.
Doylestown
A cultural hub with museums, dining, and a walkable borough center, Doylestown offers lifestyle appeal alongside access to regional transit.
Newtown
Combines a strong downtown environment with residential neighborhoods that suit those working from home most days.
Yardley
A quieter river-town setting with charm and accessibility, often appealing to professionals who want calm surroundings without isolation.
6. South Jersey Suburbs with Easy Access to Philadelphia
Hybrid workers who still need occasional access to Center City often consider Camden County towns.
Haddonfield
Walkable downtown along Kings Highway and PATCO rail access make it especially convenient for part-time commuters.
Moorestown
Offers larger homes and a traditional suburban layout while remaining accessible to regional employment centers.
These areas allow flexibility while maintaining strong ties to Philadelphia.
7. Home Features Driving Demand in 2026
Inside the home, buyer priorities have shifted toward functionality:
Dedicated office space or adaptable rooms
Finished basements for workspace or recreation
Outdoor areas for breaks and entertaining
Updated kitchens and gathering spaces
Quiet streets with minimal through traffic
Homes that support daily living—not just evenings and weekends—are commanding stronger interest.
8. What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
Buyers
Focus on how a location supports your weekly routine, not just commute distance.
Consider lifestyle amenities, workspace flexibility, and long-term resale demand.
Sellers
Highlight features that appeal to hybrid living:
Home office potential
Walkability and community access
Outdoor space and recreation
Connectivity to transit when needed
Positioning a property around lifestyle, not just square footage, resonates strongly with today’s buyers.
9. Final Takeaways
Hybrid and remote work have permanently reshaped suburban preferences. The most desirable Philadelphia-area suburbs now combine:
Strong community infrastructure
Walkable town centers
Flexible housing layouts
Occasional commuting convenience
Access to recreation and daily amenities
These qualities are driving sustained demand across the Main Line, Chester County, Bucks County, and parts of South Jersey—and they’re likely to remain influential well beyond 2026.
By Eric Kelley, Philadelphia Suburbs Realtor & Attorney