Bucks County continues to be one of the most desirable places to buy a home in the Philadelphia suburbs—and in 2026, that reputation is still well earned. With highly rated school districts, walkable historic towns, strong resale value, and access to both Philadelphia and New York corridors, Bucks County attracts families, professionals, and relocators looking for long-term stability rather than short-term hype.

That said, buying in Bucks County is not one-size-fits-all. Town-by-town differences in taxes, schools, housing stock, and lifestyle matter far more here than broad county-level trends. This guide breaks down where buyers are finding value in 2026, which areas remain most competitive, and how to think strategically before making a move.

Why Buyers Continue to Choose Bucks County in 2026

Despite higher interest rates than the ultra-low years of the early 2020s, demand in Bucks County has remained resilient. The reason is simple: the fundamentals are strong.

Bucks County offers:

• Consistently high-performing public school districts

• A mix of historic homes, newer developments, and semi-rural properties

• Strong town centers with real community identity

• Predictable long-term appreciation driven by limited land supply

For buyers prioritizing schools, lifestyle, and resale—not speculation—Bucks County remains a smart, defensible choice.

Best Towns to Buy a Home in Bucks County in 2026

Newtown

Newtown continues to be one of the most sought-after towns in Bucks County, particularly for families. Its historic downtown, anchored by boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants along State Street, offers genuine walkability—something buyers increasingly value.

Newtown is served by the Council Rock School District, one of the most highly regarded districts in the region. Inventory here tends to be tight, and homes that are priced correctly still move quickly. Buyers should be prepared to act decisively, especially for updated single-family homes near the borough center.

Yardley

Located along the Delaware River, Yardley combines charm, schools, and commuter convenience. Homes here benefit from proximity to both Trenton and Philadelphia rail lines, making it attractive to professionals working in either metro area.

Yardley also falls within the Pennsbury School District, another strong draw for families. Downtown Yardley offers a quieter, more intimate feel than some larger towns, with popular local spots like cafes, bakeries, and neighborhood restaurants contributing to its appeal.

Doylestown

Doylestown remains the cultural heart of central Bucks County. With its lively downtown, theater scene, museums, and restaurant density, it attracts buyers who want energy without sacrificing suburban space.

The town is part of the Central Bucks School District, which continues to drive demand. In 2026, buyers here are often balancing charm versus condition—historic homes close to downtown may require updates, while newer developments tend to sit slightly farther out.

New Hope

New Hope occupies a unique niche in the Bucks County market. Known for its arts scene, river views, and weekend tourism, it attracts buyers seeking character and lifestyle over traditional suburban norms.

Inventory is limited, and prices per square foot can be higher than surrounding towns. That said, for buyers prioritizing uniqueness, walkability, and strong short-term and long-term demand, New Hope remains compelling.

Richboro

Richboro is a favorite among buyers looking for larger homes, quieter neighborhoods, and top-tier schools. Also part of the Council Rock School District, it offers more space than nearby boroughs while maintaining access to retail, parks, and major roadways.

Homes here tend to be larger colonials and newer builds, making Richboro especially attractive for move-up buyers.

Schools: A Primary Driver of Value

School districts play an outsized role in Bucks County home values, and that remains true in 2026. The most influential districts include:

• Council Rock School District (North and South)

• Central Bucks School District

• Pennsbury School District

Homes zoned to these districts consistently command stronger demand, even during slower market cycles. Buyers should be aware that district boundaries can change by street, not just town—making pre-offer due diligence critical.

Lifestyle and Amenities Buyers Care About

Bucks County’s appeal extends well beyond schools. Buyers consistently cite lifestyle as a deciding factor, including:

• Peddler’s Village, a year-round destination for shopping and events

• Tyler State Park, offering trails, biking, and outdoor recreation

• Bowman’s Tavern, a local dining staple in Newtown

• Odette’s in New Hope, blending dining and riverfront atmosphere

Access to these amenities helps sustain long-term value and livability.

Pricing and Competition in 2026

In 2026, Bucks County is best described as competitive but rational. Well-priced homes in strong school districts still attract multiple offers, while overpriced listings tend to sit longer than in prior years.

Buyers who succeed typically:

• Focus on one or two towns, not the entire county

• Understand micro-market pricing, not just list prices

• Stay flexible on cosmetic updates but firm on location and layout

Strategic preparation matters more than speed alone.

Strategic Takeaways for Buyers

If you’re considering buying in Bucks County in 2026, the key is alignment—between budget, schools, commute, and lifestyle. Buyers who take the time to understand town-level differences tend to feel far more confident in both their purchase and long-term value.

Bucks County rewards informed buyers. The combination of strong schools, authentic town centers, and limited supply continues to support demand well beyond short-term market cycles.

By Eric Kelley, Philadelphia Suburbs Realtor & Attorney