Is Collingdale Safe, Pros and cons of living in Collingdale
Collingdale, a borough in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, offers a dense suburban feel with a population of approximately 8,897 residents (as of the 2020 Census). The community is characterized by a diverse population, with the most recent demographic data indicating approximately 57.2% Black or African American, 27.8% White, 7.3% Hispanic, and 4.3% Asian residents. This diversity makes Collingdale more diverse than Pennsylvania as a whole.
The borough is situated within the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area, providing residents with convenient access to urban amenities and employment opportunities. Collingdale’s housing market shows a median home price of approximately $265,000 as of March 2026. For those looking to rent, the average rent in Collingdale was reported to be $1,408 in May 2026. The cost of living in Collingdale is generally considered to be 4% higher than the national average, with notable variations in housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare expenses.
Is it Safe to Live in Collingdale?
Collingdale’s safety is a complex issue with varying reports. Based on FBI crime data, Collingdale is considered to have a crime rate that is higher than the average for communities of similar population size. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Collingdale is approximately 1 in 50. Specifically, the violent crime rate is reported to be 3 per one thousand inhabitants, with a notable concern for the murder rate when compared to national averages for similar-sized communities.
Property crime also presents a concern, with a rate of 17 per one thousand population, and a particularly high rate of motor vehicle theft according to analysis of FBI crime data. While some sources indicate that Collingdale’s overall crime rate is 4% lower than the national average, and violent crimes are 21% lower than the national average, other analyses place its safety ranking in the 19th percentile, meaning it is safer than only 19% of U.S. cities. Residents may find that safety can vary by neighborhood, with central areas often considered the safest.
Housing Costs and Real Estate Trends
The housing market in Collingdale presents a mixed picture with a notable increase in home prices. As of March 2026, the median sale price of a home in Collingdale was $265,000, marking a 14.4% increase compared to the previous year. The median sale price per square foot was $169, also showing a year-over-year increase. Homes in Collingdale tend to sell relatively quickly, with an average of 53 days on the market in March 2026, a significant decrease from 102 days the previous year.
Rental prices in Collingdale have also seen changes. In May 2026, the average rent was reported at $1,408, with a slight decrease of $42 from the previous month but an increase of $158 over the last year. The rental price range for all property types in Collingdale typically falls between $925 and $2,350. This indicates a dynamic real estate market with appreciating home values and fluctuating rental rates.
Job Market and Economic Outlook
The job market in Collingdale offers a range of opportunities, with an average annual salary of approximately $49,940 as of April 2026. Salaries in Collingdale commonly range between $34,500 and $61,116 annually, depending on the occupation and experience level. The employed population in Collingdale saw an 8.05% increase in 2024.
Major employers in the broader Delaware County area, which includes Collingdale, are concentrated in sectors such as Health Care and Social Services, Retail, and Manufacturing. The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce serves as a resource hub for businesses, aiming to foster growth and stability within the region. While specific major employers within Collingdale are not detailed, the presence of business associations suggests an active local economy.
Climate and Weather Patterns
Collingdale experiences a climate typical of the Mid-Atlantic region, with four distinct seasons. Average temperatures near Collingdale, based on data from Philadelphia International Airport, show January highs around 41°F and July highs near 87°F. The borough receives a considerable amount of rainfall throughout the year, with monthly averages ranging from approximately 3.03 inches in January to 4.47 inches in July.
The weather patterns indicate a generally temperate climate, though residents should be prepared for typical seasonal variations. Extended forecasts suggest a mix of conditions, including chances of showers and thunderstorms during warmer months, and milder, potentially cloudy conditions in other seasons. The proximity to Philadelphia International Airport provides a reliable source for localized weather data.
Education and School Ratings
Collingdale’s educational landscape includes a mix of public schools, with varying ratings. Niche.com provides school grades based on rigorous analysis of statistics and reviews. Some public schools serving Collingdale have received grades such as B-, C+, and C-. For instance, Philadelphia Performing Arts: A String Theory Charter School received a rating of 3.85 out of 5, and Preparatory Charter School of Mathematics, Science, Tech & Careers received a 3.86 out of 5.
Harris School, a public K-8 school in Collingdale, has an overall Niche grade of C- and a student-teacher ratio of 14:1. While some schools are rated higher, others fall into lower grading categories, indicating a need for families to research specific school performance and offerings. The diversity of public schools in Pennsylvania places Collingdale among the more diverse suburbs in the state.
Demographics and Community Profile
Collingdale’s population of approximately 8,897 residents reflects a diverse community. The borough is notably diverse, with a significant Black or African American population (57.2%) and a substantial White population (27.8%). Hispanic and Asian residents also contribute to the community’s demographic makeup, at 7.3% and 4.3% respectively.
The median age in Collingdale is around 40.4 years, with a slightly higher proportion of females to males. The median household income is approximately $51,886, with a poverty rate of 19.56%. A majority of residents own their homes, contributing to a dense suburban feel, with many families choosing to live in the area.