Is Bala Cynwyd Safe, Pros and cons of living in Bala Cynwyd
Bala Cynwyd, a vibrant community nestled in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, offers a compelling blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility. Bordering the western edge of Philadelphia, this locale is known for its picturesque tree-lined streets, historic charm, and a strong sense of community. The area’s appeal is enhanced by its excellent educational institutions, a robust local economy, and a commitment to maintaining a high quality of life for its residents.
The community’s rich history dates back to its settlement by Welsh Quakers in the 1680s, with its name derived from two Welsh towns. Today, Bala Cynwyd continues to thrive, attracting families and professionals alike with its desirable amenities and strategic location. Its proximity to Philadelphia provides easy access to major employment centers, cultural attractions, and diverse recreational opportunities, making it a sought-after place to call home.
Is it Safe to Live in Bala Cynwyd?
Bala Cynwyd is recognized as an exceptionally safe place to live, with crime rates significantly below the national average. The overall crime index in Bala Cynwyd is 64, which is 36% lower than the national average of 100 (as reported by DoorProfit). This safety is reflected in both violent and property crime statistics, which are substantially lower than national benchmarks.
Violent crime in Bala Cynwyd is 57% below the national average, and property crime is 24% below the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). While the neighborhood is generally very safe, it’s always advisable to be aware of specific local crime patterns. Vehicle theft is noted as a concern, though still below average, while rape is reported as a very low risk (as reported by DoorProfit). Overall, residents can feel secure in their daily lives, with a very low chance of becoming a victim of crime.
Cost of Living and Housing in Bala Cynwyd
The cost of living in Bala Cynwyd is notably higher than the national average, largely driven by housing expenses. Overall living costs are approximately 19% higher than the U.S. national average (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). Housing costs, in particular, are about 26.0% higher than the national average, with a median rent of $1,300 per month (as reported by Zillow) and a median home price around $672,206 (as reported by Trulia).
While housing is a significant expense, other costs such as food are 5.8% below the national average (as reported by Salary.com). Energy, transportation, and healthcare costs are slightly higher than the national average, contributing to the overall cost of living. These figures suggest that while Bala Cynwyd offers a high quality of life, it comes with a premium price tag, particularly for those looking to purchase or rent a home.
Housing Market Trends
The Bala Cynwyd housing market is described as somewhat competitive, with homes selling relatively quickly. The median sale price of a home in Bala Cynwyd was approximately $1.18 million last month, showing a significant increase of 52.5% since the previous year (as reported by Redfin). The median sale price per square foot is $358, also up by 40.1% compared to last year (as reported by Redfin).
Homes in Bala Cynwyd tend to sell within an average of 45.5 days on the market (as reported by Redfin). Some homes even receive multiple offers, with many selling for about 1% above the list price (as reported by Redfin). This competitive market indicates strong demand for housing in the area, influencing both sale prices and the speed at which properties are acquired.
Rental Market Overview
The rental market in Bala Cynwyd presents a range of options, with average rents reflecting the area’s higher cost of living. The average rent in Bala Cynwyd is approximately $2,101 per month (as reported by Apartments.com). This is about 28% higher than the national average rent price, positioning Bala Cynwyd as one of the more expensive rental markets in the U.S.
A studio apartment averages around $1,629 per month, a one-bedroom is about $2,101, and a two-bedroom typically rents for $2,751 (as reported by Apartments.com). For a three-bedroom rental, costs can exceed $3,430 per month. To comfortably afford the average rent, a monthly income of approximately $7,003, or $84,036 annually, is generally recommended (as reported by Apartments.com).
Job Market and Economy
Bala Cynwyd benefits from a strong local economy and a connection to the broader economic landscape of the Greater Philadelphia region. The average salary in Bala Cynwyd is approximately $72,862 per year, or $35 per hour (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert). This figure is competitive, though the cost of living necessitates a higher income to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
The unemployment rate in Bala Cynwyd is 4.1%, which is lower than the national average of 5.2% (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). This indicates a healthy job market with ample opportunities for residents. Major employers in the broader Greater Philadelphia area include prominent institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, Penn Medicine, and Vanguard, suggesting a diverse and resilient employment base.
Major Employers and Industries
While specific major employers within Bala Cynwyd are not detailed, the surrounding Greater Philadelphia region boasts a diverse economic base. Key sectors include healthcare, education, finance, and technology, supported by large institutions and a growing startup ecosystem (as reported by Select Greater Philadelphia). The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia actively works to foster economic growth and attract businesses to the region.
The presence of major universities and healthcare systems not only provides significant employment but also drives innovation and research. This concentration of economic activity creates a dynamic job market, offering a wide array of career paths for residents in various fields. The region’s strategic location and collaborative business community further enhance its appeal to both established companies and emerging enterprises.
Climate and Weather
Bala Cynwyd experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, characterized by warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The average high temperature in July, the warmest month, reaches around 85.8°F (29.9°C), while the average low is 68.9°F (20.5°C) (as reported by NOAA). Summers are typically warm, humid, and can be wet.
Winters are cold and snowy, with January being the coldest month. Average high temperatures in January are around 36.7°F (2.6°C), with lows dropping to 25°F (-3.9°C) (as reported by NOAA). Snowfall is common from January through March, and again in November and December, with an annual accumulation of about 3.66 inches (as reported by NOAA). The area experiences an average of 111.8 days of rain per year, collecting up to 9.69 inches of precipitation (as reported by NOAA).
Education and Schools
Bala Cynwyd is served by a highly-regarded public school system, with schools consistently receiving excellent ratings. Bala Cynwyd Middle School, for instance, holds an overall Niche grade of A+ and is ranked among the top public middle schools in Pennsylvania (as reported by Niche). Students at this level demonstrate strong academic performance, with 76% proficient in math and 84% in reading.
Similarly, Cynwyd Elementary School also boasts an A+ Niche grade, ranking within the top elementary schools in the state and the Philadelphia area (as reported by Niche). At the elementary level, 84% of students are proficient in math, and 82% are proficient in reading. These high-achieving schools contribute significantly to the community’s appeal for families prioritizing education.
Demographics
Bala Cynwyd is home to a diverse population, with approximately 10,227 residents according to the most recent Census data (as reported by Point2Homes). The gender distribution is nearly balanced, with 47.6% males and 52.4% females (as reported by Point2Homes). The population is a mix of U.S.-born citizens (84.2%) and naturalized citizens (12.8%), with a small percentage of non-citizens (as reported by Point2Homes).
The racial makeup of Bala Cynwyd is predominantly Caucasian (76.3%), with significant Black or African American (12.8%) and Asian (5.9%) populations (as reported by Point2Homes). The median age in Bala Cynwyd is 40 years, indicating a community with a substantial adult population, including those in their prime working years and a notable segment of residents aged 65 and older (as reported by Point2Homes). The community has a median household income of $150,000 (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau).
Pros and Cons of Living in Bala Cynwyd
Bala Cynwyd offers numerous advantages for its residents, primarily centered around its safety, excellent schools, and convenient location. The low crime rates provide peace of mind, while the highly-rated educational institutions ensure quality learning opportunities for children. Its proximity to Philadelphia allows for easy commutes and access to a wide range of cultural and professional amenities.
However, the primary drawback of Bala Cynwyd is its high cost of living, particularly housing expenses, which can be a significant barrier for some. While the job market is stable, the overall expense of maintaining a household requires a substantial income. For those who can afford it, Bala Cynwyd presents a very attractive and secure environment to live and raise a family.