Southeastern Pennsylvania is home to some of the most desirable neighborhoods for families on the east coast. With charming small towns, excellent schools, and convenient access to Philly, young families are flocking to these small towns in PA. If you’re considering a move to the main line area, we have three neighborhoods for you to consider.
1. Radnor
Ideal for families interested in dining experiences, top-tier education options, and a short commute to the city.
Radnor is a perfect balance of suburban tranquility and city convenience. Nestled along the Main Line, it offers a picturesque setting with tree-lined streets, excellent private schools, and easy access to outdoor spaces like the Radnor Trail. The commute to Center City Philly is a manageable 30 minutes by train or car. Radnor sits close to I-76 for quick commute times, but far enough to maintain a low noise level. Our clients in Radnor love the winding residential roads, excellent restaurant selection, and annual holiday events.
Average home value: approximately $1.6 million, reflecting a 33.8% increase year-over-year. Source: Realtor.com January 2025
2. Bryn Mawr
Ideal for young families who value walkability, fine dining, and a measure of urban energy.
Known for its vibrant town center and historic charm, Bryn Mawr is a favorite for families who want amenities within walking distance. From top-tier schools like Harriton High to the local favorite Bryn Mawr Film Institute, the neighborhood has something for everyone. While its bustling main street adds a lively energy, the surrounding residential areas are surprisingly quiet. Philly’s center city is a 25-minute trip via train or car. The wide range of shops and restaurants makes it perfect for a young family.
Average home value: approximately $824,906, marking a 4.5% rise over the past year. Source: Zillow January 2025
3. Devon
Ideal for families with young children who prioritize outdoor living, privacy, and a love for equestrian and cultural events.
For families craving a bit more space without sacrificing access to amenities, Devon is a great choice. With larger lot sizes, the neighborhood combines luxury with a more rustic Pennsylvanian vibe. It’s home to the renowned Devon Horse Show, adding a unique cultural touch to the area. Although slightly farther from Center City—around 35 minutes by train or 40-minutes by car—Devon offers the most privacy. Its quiet streets and top-rated schools make it a favorite for families seeking a more relaxed lifestyle.
Average home value: approximately $890,020, up 3.6% from the previous year. Source: Zillow January 2025
Noise Level of Radnor, Bryn Mawr, and Devon:
| Neighborhood | Noise Level | Description |
| Radnor | Low to Moderate | Quiet residential streets with some activity near schools and town centers. |
| Bryn Mawr | Moderate | Bustling town center contributes to more lively ambiance; quieter outskirts. |
| Devon | Low | Predominantly quiet, spacious neighborhoods with minimal traffic or activity. |
Average Home Price for Radnor, Bryn Mawr, and Devon:
| Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Year-over-Year Change |
| Radnor | $1,600,000 | +33.8% |
| Bryn Mawr | $824,906 | +4.5% |
| Devon | $890,020 | +3.6% |
A Region Shaped by Centuries of History
Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in modern America. Founded in 1682, it predates the nation itself. That history shows up in the landscape, the streets, and the homes that define the Main Line area. Drive through Radnor, Bryn Mawr, or Devon and you’ll notice the stone homes and historic properties that give the region its charm.
That same history also explains why navigating the Main Line feels nothing like a typical suburb. Long before grids and GPS, the earliest roads here were worn into existence by those on horseback, carved around rocky outcroppings and creek beds. The result is a network of winding, scenic roads that loop and curve in surprising ways.
The lots themselves tell a similar story. Many available lots are irregular in shape, long and narrow, angled, or otherwise unconventional. When we take on a new project, we study the geometry of the lot to understand how your home can best occupy the space. We take into consideration topography, sun orientation, water drainage, and so much more to create a home that complements its natural surroundings.
Why’s it Called the “Main Line”?
The Main Line gets its name from the Pennsylvania Railroad’s “Main Line of Public Works,” a 19th-century transportation corridor that ran westward from Philadelphia. When the railroad laid its tracks through a string of affluent suburbs (including Ardmore, Gladwyne, Haverford, Bryn Mawr, and Wayne) the communities that sprung up along the route became collectively known as “the Main Line.” The Pennsylvania Railroad actively promoted these towns as desirable places to live, and wealthy Philadelphians built grand estates there, drawn by the easy rail commute into the city.
Build Your Luxury Home in Main Line, Pennsylvania
At DesignHOME Studios, we simplify the process with our unique SingleSOURCE model. By putting a collective of Philadelphia’s favorite architects, interior designers, and builders under one roof, we create seamless collaboration from start to finish. From architecture to site planning and interior design, our approach keeps costs predictable and minimizes unexpected changes.
We love coming to understand the lifestyles & preferences of our clients, and translating that into a magazine-level home. Schedule a private consultation today to bring your vision to life.