Your Guide to Chester County’s Top Family-Friendly Communities

Families moving to or within Chester County, Pennsylvania in 2026 are searching for the perfect balance of top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, community amenities, outdoor spaces, and strong resale value. Luckily, Chester County remains one of the most desirable places to live in the entire Delaware Valley — offering scenic suburbs, charming boroughs, and some of the most sought-after school districts in the state.

From West Chester to Kennett Square to Downingtown and beyond, Chester County is filled with neighborhoods that offer incredible lifestyle value for families. Whether you’re looking for walkability, award-winning schools, large suburban homes, or peaceful rural settings, this guide breaks down the best places to live in Chester County for families in 2026.

🌟 Why Families Are Choosing Chester County in 2026

Chester County continues to grow rapidly thanks to:

✔ Top-ranking school districts

Unionville–Chadds Ford, T/E, Downingtown, Great Valley, and West Chester consistently rank among the best in Pennsylvania.

✔ Safe, community-centered living

Neighborhood parks, well-maintained developments, and strong community engagement make it ideal for raising kids.

✔ Convenient access to major employers

Easy commutes to Philadelphia, King of Prussia, Wilmington, and Route 202 tech hubs.

✔ Beautiful scenery & outdoor recreation

Chester County offers rolling hills, preserves, walking trails, and family-friendly parks.

✔ Excellent long-term home value

Strong appreciation makes buying in Chester County a smart financial decision.

🏘️ 1. West Chester — The Perfect Blend of Suburban + Urban Charm

West Chester continues to be one of the top places for families to live thanks to its vibrant borough, highly rated schools, and convenient location.

Why Families Love West Chester:

• Walkable downtown filled with restaurants and local shops

• West Chester Area School District (top-ranking)

• Family-friendly neighborhoods like East Goshen, West Goshen & Westtown

• Close to Route 202 for commuting

What You Can Expect:

A home budget of $500K–$800K typically gets you:

• 3–4 bedroom single-family home

• Friendly suburban neighborhoods

• Access to parks, playgrounds, and community sports leagues

West Chester is ideal for families wanting an active, community-driven lifestyle with great schools.

🏡 2. Downingtown — Award-Winning Schools & Strong Value

Downingtown has become a major hotspot for families due to its STEM-focused school programs, strong Downingtown East/West high schools, and affordability relative to neighboring districts.

Highlights:

• Downingtown Area School District (one of PA’s strongest)

• Excellent sports, music, and academic programs

• Villages and suburbs with newer developments

• Easy access to the PA Turnpike

Home Expectations:

Downingtown gives families more space and a great value compared to the Main Line — making it especially appealing to growing households.

🌳 3. Kennett Square — Small-Town Charm Meets Top Education

Known as one of the “coolest small towns in America,” Kennett Square is a Chester County gem offering unique charm and top-tier schools.

Why Families Choose Kennett Square:

• Unionville–Chadds Ford School District (UCFSD: one of PA’s best)

• Beautiful rolling countryside

• A vibrant local community with events, markets, and restaurants

• Nearby Longwood Gardens

Home Expectations:

Homes tend to range from historic properties near town to spacious rural-suburban homes surrounded by greenery.

Kennett Square is ideal for families wanting a quieter lifestyle without losing access to great schools and local culture.

🛝 4. Exton & Lionville — Convenience + Community

Located at the intersection of major roadways and retail centers, Exton offers unbeatable convenience while still being very family-friendly.

Why Exton Works for Families:

• Part of the highly rated Downingtown Area School District

• Easy access to the Exton Mall, Main Street at Exton, and dining

• Numerous parks, walking trails, and family activities

• Major commuting routes (100, 30, 202, Turnpike)

Home Expectations:

Exton offers everything from modern townhomes to large single-family neighborhoods, making it a versatile family destination.

🏘️ 5. Malvern & Great Valley — High-End Schools & Suburban Luxury

Malvern continues to be one of the most desirable Chester County suburbs thanks to its excellent Great Valley School District, booming business corridors, and peaceful upscale neighborhoods.

Family Appeal:

• Strong test scores & high college readiness

• Safe, quiet streets

• Upscale neighborhoods and newer construction

• Growing business parks offering local employment

Home Expectations:

Expect larger, newer homes, luxury townhomes, and premium price points.

For families prioritizing top-tier education and quiet suburban living, Malvern is a top choice.

🏞️ 6. Phoenixville — A Fast-Growing Favorite for Young Families

Phoenixville has exploded in popularity thanks to its vibrant downtown, affordability, and strong community vibe.

Why It’s Great for Families:

• Walkable borough with restaurants, shops, farmers markets

• Strong community events & family-friendly activities

• More affordable than Main Line suburbs

• Quick access to Chester Springs, Collegeville, and the 422 corridor

Phoenixville hits the sweet spot between affordability, lifestyle, and convenience — especially for young families.

🎯 Which Chester County Town Is Right for Your Family?

Here’s the quick breakdown:

✔ Want the BEST schools?

Unionville–Chadds Ford, Tredyffrin/Easttown, Great Valley, Downingtown

✔ Want walkability + community events?

West Chester, Kennett Square, Phoenixville

✔ Want affordability WITH great schools?

Downingtown, Exton

✔ Want luxury suburban living?

Malvern, Chadds Ford, East Bradford

✔ Want quiet, rural beauty?

Kennett Square countryside, Unionville, Chester Springs

Your perfect match depends on your lifestyle, budget, commute, and priorities — and I’m here to help you find it.

🤝 Connect with Your Local Real Estate Expert

Thinking about moving within Chester County or relocating into the area?
I help families find the right neighborhood based on schools, community feel, amenities, and long-term value.

Jim Arcidiacono, REALTOR®
Next Move Delaware Valley
Licensed in PA, DE & MD
📞 (302) 983-4640
📧 jim@nextmovedelval.com
🌐 www.nextmovedelval.com

FREE Real Estate resources ➝ https://stan.store/NextMoveJim