ERIC KELLEY

REALTOR | ATTORNEY

Relocating from Washington, DC to Chester County, PA

 

Summary

Relocating from Washington, DC to Chester County, Pennsylvania has become increasingly common among professionals, families, and remote workers seeking more space, strong public schools, and a higher quality of life—without giving up access to major East Coast cities. Chester County offers a rare combination of top-tier school districts, walkable downtowns, historic charm, and commuter connectivity, making it an attractive alternative to Northern Virginia, Montgomery County (MD), and close-in DC suburbs.

This guide is designed to help DC-area buyers understand what makes Chester County unique, how the real estate market differs from the DC metro, and which towns and townships tend to be the best fit for relocating households.

Table of Contents

  1. Why DC Buyers Are Choosing Chester County

  2. How Chester County Compares to the DC Metro

  3. Commute and Connectivity: What to Expect

  4. School Districts That Drive Demand

  5. Popular Chester County Towns for DC Relocators

  6. Housing Stock and Pricing Differences

  7. Lifestyle, Downtowns, and Daily Living

  8. Property Taxes and Cost of Ownership

  9. What DC Buyers Should Know Before Making an Offer

  10. Final Takeaways

1. Why DC Buyers Are Choosing Chester County

Many buyers relocating from Washington, DC cite similar motivations:

  • Desire for larger homes and lots

  • Strong public schools without private-school tuition

  • Lower population density and quieter neighborhoods

  • More predictable cost of living

  • Flexibility created by hybrid or remote work

Chester County offers these benefits while still providing access to Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, DC via Amtrak, SEPTA, and major highway corridors.

2. How Chester County Compares to the DC Metro

Buyers coming from DC, Arlington, Bethesda, or Northern Virginia often notice several immediate differences:

  • More space for the price: Single-family homes with yards are far more common.

  • School-driven pricing: School districts play a larger role in home values than proximity to a downtown core.

  • Township-based markets: Chester County real estate is highly localized, with pricing varying significantly by township.

While the DC metro emphasizes proximity to employment hubs, Chester County emphasizes long-term livability and community stability.

3. Commute and Connectivity: What to Expect

Even for buyers who still travel to DC occasionally, Chester County remains practical.

Connectivity highlights include:

  • Amtrak service from Paoli, Exton, or Downingtown to Washington, DC

  • SEPTA Regional Rail into Center City Philadelphia

  • Easy access to Route 202, Route 30, and I-76

  • Proximity to Philadelphia International Airport

For hybrid professionals, the ability to commute a few days per month—rather than daily—makes Chester County an increasingly viable choice.

4. School Districts That Drive Demand

One of the biggest adjustments for DC-area families is the strength of public school districts in Chester County.

Highly regarded districts include:

  • Tredyffrin-Easttown (T/E)

  • Great Valley

  • West Chester Area

  • Downingtown Area

Homes within these districts tend to:

  • Sell faster

  • Maintain stronger long-term value

  • Attract competitive interest

For families accustomed to private-school-centric markets in DC, this is often a major advantage.

5. Popular Chester County Towns for DC Relocators

Malvern

Appeals to buyers seeking rail access, a growing borough center, and proximity to employment corridors along Route 202. Malvern balances suburban calm with accessibility.

West Chester

One of the most vibrant suburban downtowns in the region, West Chester attracts buyers who want walkability, dining, and a strong community feel.

Paoli and Berwyn

Offer Main Line-style convenience with quick rail access and strong school districts, often appealing to buyers accustomed to closer-in DC suburbs.

Phoenixville

Known for its lively Bridge Street corridor, Phoenixville attracts buyers seeking culture, nightlife, and trail access—similar to revitalized DC neighborhoods but with more space.

Downingtown

Combines borough charm, rail access, and proximity to parks like Marsh Creek State Park, making it attractive to families and outdoor enthusiasts.

6. Housing Stock and Pricing Differences

DC buyers often find Chester County housing stock more diverse.

Common property types include:

  • Stone Colonials and historic homes

  • 1980s–2000s suburban neighborhoods

  • Newer townhomes and planned communities

  • Renovated borough properties

Compared to DC-area suburbs, buyers typically gain:

  • Larger lots

  • More square footage

  • Easier parking and storage

Pricing varies widely by township, but many DC buyers are surprised by the relative value when comparing lifestyle and space.

7. Lifestyle, Downtowns, and Daily Living

Chester County places a strong emphasis on town centers and local amenities.

Lifestyle highlights include:

  • Walkable downtowns like West Chester and Phoenixville

  • Dining destinations such as Andiario (West Chester) and local breweries in Downingtown

  • Cultural amenities like Longwood Gardens near Kennett Square

  • Extensive park systems and trail networks

For DC transplants, this often feels like a slower, more intentional pace of life—without sacrificing quality.

8. Property Taxes and Cost of Ownership

Property taxes in Chester County vary by township and school district but are often perceived as more predictable than those in the DC metro area.

Key considerations:

  • Taxes are influenced heavily by school districts

  • Reassessments vary by county and timing

  • Total monthly cost (mortgage + taxes) is the most useful comparison

Many DC buyers find that while taxes can still be substantial, the overall value proposition is compelling.

9. What DC Buyers Should Know Before Making an Offer

Relocating buyers should prepare for several Chester County realities:

  • Markets are hyper-local—data must be analyzed by township

  • Pricing strategy matters more than aggressive bidding alone

  • Renovated homes often command a premium

  • School district boundaries should be verified carefully

Working with local expertise is essential to avoid overpaying or misunderstanding market dynamics.

10. Final Takeaways

Relocating from Washington, DC to Chester County offers a compelling opportunity to gain space, community, and long-term value—especially for buyers with hybrid or remote flexibility.

Chester County rewards buyers who understand:

  • Township-level market differences

  • School district-driven demand

  • Lifestyle and commute tradeoffs

With the right planning and local insight, many DC buyers find Chester County not just a compromise—but a meaningful upgrade.

 

Eric Kelley, Philadelphia Suburbs Realtor & Attorney