Homes for Sale in Swarthmore, PA — Delaware County's Most Distinctive Borough

Searching for homes for sale in Swarthmore, PA? This walkable, tree-canopied borough surrounding Swarthmore College is one of Delaware County's most distinctive and consistently in-demand communities. Known for its Victorian and Craftsman architecture, its intellectual character, and a genuine small-town feel that's increasingly rare this close to Philadelphia, Swarthmore attracts buyers who are looking for something different — and are usually right to choose it.

Inventory here is consistently tight. When a well-priced home hits the market in Swarthmore Borough, it rarely lasts a weekend. As a Delaware County specialist, I'll help you position yourself to move quickly when the right property appears.

Why Buy a Home in Swarthmore, PA?

  • Schools: Wallingford-Swarthmore School District — consistently one of the top-rated K-12 districts in Pennsylvania, with Swarthmore-Rutledge Elementary, Strath Haven Middle School, and Strath Haven High School
  • Commute: Swarthmore station on SEPTA's Media/Elwyn Regional Rail line delivers direct service to Center City Philadelphia in under 30 minutes — one of the best commuter rail connections in all of Delaware County
  • Price range: Homes typically sell from $400,000 to $900,000, with the most desirable historic homes on the borough's signature streets reaching $800K–$1M+
  • Home styles: Victorian, Craftsman, Colonial Revival, and Tudor — many original to the early 1900s and maintained with exceptional care
  • Local draw: Swarthmore College campus and its stunning grounds, the Scott Arboretum (free and open to the public), a walkable borough center with the train station, library, and local shops all within a few blocks of each other
  • Walkability: One of the most walkable communities in Delaware County — many residents live car-light once they're here

Swarthmore PA Neighborhoods

Swarthmore is a small borough, but its neighborhoods each have a distinct character worth understanding before you buy:

  • Central Borough / The Ville: The heart of town — walkable to the SEPTA Regional Rail station, the public library, borough shops, and the Swarthmore College campus edge. The most walkable and centrally located homes in the borough, and among the most coveted. Prices typically $550K–$900K+.
  • Yale Avenue & Westdale Avenue: Swarthmore's signature streetscapes — 1920s Tudor and historic Colonial Revival homes set beneath mature tree canopies. These blocks are what buyers picture when they imagine Swarthmore. Expect strong competition and premium pricing. Prices typically $600K–$950K+.
  • Swarthmorewood: An established, family-friendly residential area with a more accessible price point than the historic core. A solid community with good bones and, for some addresses, proximity to Ridley Township amenities. A smart entry point into the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District. Prices typically $400K–$575K.
  • Milmont Park: A quiet neighborhood that often carries a Swarthmore mailing address, featuring smaller single-family homes and nearby parks. Good value for buyers prioritizing the school district over the walkable borough center. Prices typically $375K–$525K.

Swarthmore PA Real Estate Market

Swarthmore Borough is one of the most supply-constrained markets in Delaware County. The borough is geographically small, the housing stock is largely historic and owners hold for long periods, and demand from buyers who prioritize the school district and train access is consistent year-round. The result is a market where well-presented homes in the right locations regularly attract multiple offers and sell at or above asking price.

If you're a buyer targeting Swarthmore, the practical advice is simple: get your financing sorted before you need it, know your priorities across the four neighborhoods, and be ready to move. Homes that sit more than two weeks usually have a specific issue — pricing, condition, or location — worth understanding before you pursue them.

If you're a seller in Swarthmore, the market's tight inventory works in your favor, but presentation and pricing strategy still matter. I can provide a detailed comparative market analysis at no cost.

Frequently Asked Questions About Swarthmore, PA

Is Swarthmore, PA a good place to live?
Consistently yes. Swarthmore offers a combination of exceptional schools, genuine walkability, architectural character, and direct rail access to Philadelphia that is genuinely rare in the Philadelphia suburbs at any price point. It tends to attract buyers who do their research — and rarely regret the decision.

What school district is Swarthmore, PA in?
Swarthmore Borough is served by the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District. Note that some addresses with Swarthmore mailing addresses — particularly in Milmont Park — may fall within adjacent township boundaries. Always verify the specific address's school district assignment before purchasing.

How far is Swarthmore, PA from Philadelphia?
Approximately 11 miles from Center City. SEPTA's Media/Elwyn Regional Rail line runs directly from Swarthmore station to Jefferson Station in Center City in under 30 minutes — making this one of the best-connected commuter boroughs in Delaware County.

What are home prices like in Swarthmore, PA?
The market ranges from approximately $375,000 for smaller homes in Milmont Park and Swarthmorewood, up to $900,000–$1M+ for the most desirable historic homes on Yale Avenue, Westdale Avenue, and the central borough streets. The median sale price typically falls in the $550,000–$650,000 range.

Work With a Delaware County Realtor Who Knows This Market

Swarthmore's combination of limited inventory, historic homes, and strong buyer competition makes it a market where local knowledge and preparation matter more than almost anywhere else in Delco. As a Delaware County specialist with deep roots in the communities surrounding Swarthmore, I'll help you navigate this market with clear eyes and a real strategy.

Contact me for a Swarthmore home search consultation →

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Licensed Real Estate Agent in Pennsylvania and Delaware | Serving Swarthmore Borough, Wallingford-Swarthmore School District, and all of Delaware County

Current Swarthmore PA Listings

$818,000
4 Beds 3 Baths
Welcome to 411 Drexel Place, where mid-century modern design meets thoughtful, high-end updates in one of Swarthmore's most desirable neighborhoods. Located in the award-winning Wallingford-Swarthmore School District, this beautifully maintained split-level home offers timeless architecture, exceptional living space, and meaningful improvements that enhance both everyday living and long-term peace of mind. The home's signature sunken living room, anchored by a wood-burning fireplace and oversized bay window, creates a warm and inviting space filled with natural light and showcases the home's distinctive mid-century modern character. At the heart of the home is a stunning, fully reimagined open-concept kitchen and dining area designed for gathering. Featuring stainless steel appliances, beautiful custom tilework, a spacious quartz waterfall peninsula, and abundant cabinetry throughout for exceptional storage, this thoughtfully designed space is as practical as it is beautiful. The flexible split-level layout offers room for every stage of life. The lower level features a spacious bedroom or home office, a powder room, laundry area, a screened-in patio, and direct access to the attached one-car garage. Beyond, the beautifully landscaped, fully fenced backyard provides the perfect setting for entertaining, relaxing, or play. Upstairs, the primary suite includes an en suite bath, while two additional bedrooms share a beautifully renovated hall bath with a deep jetted tub. Continue upward to an oversized fourth bedroom and a finished attic retreat, offering endless possibilities as a playroom, media room, home gym, guest suite, or additional living space. Thoughtfully updated since 2022, this home has benefited from extensive investments in both style and function, including a complete kitchen renovation, a renovated hall bathroom, recessed lighting and extensive electrical upgrades, a finished and insulated attic retreat, a new roof with gutter guards, a new boiler and water heater, improved backyard drainage, professional interior painting, and extensive landscaping that creates a lush, usable outdoor retreat. Perfectly positioned just moments from downtown Swarthmore, this home offers the rare convenience of a truly walkable lifestyle, with charming shops, cafés, restaurants, parks, the SEPTA train station, and Swarthmore College all nearby. Combining distinctive mid-century modern character, exceptional updates, flexible living spaces, and an unbeatable location within the award-winning Wallingford-Swarthmore School District, 411 Drexel Place is ready to welcome its next owners.

411 Drexel Pl, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of Compass Pennsylvania, LLC. Contact: 2674483744

$800,000
3 Beds 3 Baths
Welcome to 629 University Place, an extensively renovated Colonial situated on one of Swarthmore's most picturesque and quintessential tree-lined streets. Just a short walk to downtown Swarthmore, the train station, and the beautiful campus of Swarthmore College, this exceptional home offers the rare combination of timeless character, modern amenities, and an unbeatable walk-to-town lifestyle. Thoughtfully reimagined from top to bottom, the home blends historic charm with the comfort and peace of mind of modern living. Extensive improvements include a brand-new roof, all new OKNA 800 Series windows, a new insulated garage door, new HVAC system, new hot water heater, conversion from oil to natural gas, a complete electrical rewire, new plumbing serving the kitchen and bathrooms, and a new plumbing stack. Fresh interior and exterior paint and new ¾-inch solid oak hardwood flooring throughout complete the transformation. Inside, abundant natural light highlights the home's original character and fills the inviting living spaces. At the heart of the home is a stunning new kitchen featuring an open, spacious layout designed for entertaining and everyday living. All bathrooms have been fully renovated, including the transformation of a former half bath into a full en-suite bath, creating a desirable primary suite rarely found in homes of this era. The second floor offers three generously sized bedrooms, including the primary suite, along with a versatile bonus room that is ideal for a home office, nursery, reading room, or creative space. This flexible layout provides options to fit a variety of lifestyles and needs. The spacious living and dining areas retain the warmth and character that make Swarthmore's historic homes so special. The living room features a fully functional wood-burning fireplace enhanced by a new HeatShield chimney lining. Adding to the home's charm is a beautifully rebuilt three-season sunroom featuring new framing, insulation, and Eze-Breeze windows. Overlooking the backyard, this bright and comfortable space is ideal for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying the changing seasons. The basement has been professionally improved with waterproofing, including a new partial French drain system, new sump pit and sump pump, and newly finished stucco walls. Clean, dry, and ready for storage, recreation, or future finishing, the basement offers exceptional flexibility. Outside, newly completed landscaping, backyard grading, and fresh grass seed provide a welcoming setting for outdoor enjoyment and entertaining. Whether you're strolling into town for dinner, catching the train, enjoying the shops and restaurants of downtown Swarthmore, or taking a walk through the campus of Swarthmore College, you'll appreciate the unique lifestyle this location provides. Combining classic character with extensive modernization, 629 University Place is a truly turnkey home where the hard work has already been done. Owner is a licensed PA Realtor.

629 University Pl, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty. Contact: 2156412727

$309,000
3 Beds 2 Baths
Discover this rare opportunity to own a unique 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence at the Strath Haven in the heart of Swarthmore offered with 2026 special assessment fully paid! Seldom available, this bright and airy condo offers beautiful, tranquil views of Crum Creek and the surrounding woods, with particularly breathtaking scenery during the winter months. The condo features an updated kitchen equipped with rich wood cabinetry, generous counter space, a gas range, and a built-in microwave. Luxury vinyl plank flooring seamlessly flows through the kitchen, dining, and living areas. The expansive living room is filled with natural light from a floor-to-ceiling glass wall, which opens onto a large, covered private balcony, an ideal retreat for morning coffee or evening relaxation. The adjacent dining area provides a dedicated space perfect for hosting family and friends. The primary suite is well sized with large closet space and an en suite bathroom featuring a convenient walk-in shower. A second bedroom offers a welcoming atmosphere with ample storage, situated conveniently near a full hall bathroom with a shower/tub combination. The versatile third bedroom, located on the opposite side of the living area, serves perfectly as a guest room, office, or entertainment space. Practical amenities include a private laundry closet with a side-by-side washer and dryer and storage space. A valuable and coveted storage unit is also included with the condo. While the storage units can occasionally be sold between residents, they rarely change hands. Beyond the residence, life at Strath Haven is defined by comfort and convenience. As a Gold Star Community with over $12 million in capital improvements since 2014, residents enjoy meticulously manicured grounds and a wealth of lifestyle amenities, including a stunning in-ground pool with lifeguard service and changing rooms. The prime, walkable location places you moments away from Swarthmore College, Crum Creek Woods, the Scott Arboretum, local boutiques, and the regional train station. For ultimate peace of mind, your comprehensive monthly condo fee simplifies living by covering nearly all expenses, including electricity, gas, water, sewer, heating, air conditioning, building maintenance, pool access, library, and community van services—leaving only cable and internet as your sole additional costs.

801 Yale Ave Unit #205, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of BHHS Fox & Roach-Media. Contact: (610) 566-3000

$125,000
1 Beds 1 Baths
Exciting New Price!! Welcome to Unit 1215 in a Gold Star Community of Excellence in the sought after Strath Haven Condominiums in Swarthmore. This top floor unit in the Princeton Building boasts beautiful sky and treetop views with the bonus of no other units above this floor. At the Crum Creek side of the building with loads of available parking, find the main entry into a warm and inviting newly refurbished lobby and seating area. The conveniently situated mail room is here as well as the management office and its helpful staff. From here or the other side of the building, elevators will bring you to your 12th floor unit. A short hallway leads to unit 1215, where versatile, spacious, open-concept living and dining areas are bathed in natural light, offering inviting sky views through wall-to-wall windows and sliders. Laminate flooring through the living areas and bedroom provide easy maintenance. The kitchen was partially updated with a tile backsplash and unique eco friendly quartz-like glass countertops and is fully equipped with desirable gas cooking, a double oven. and a new garbage disposal. Through the hall to the bedroom, you'll find the conveniently located laundry room and a good sized bathroom with a tub/shower, and a built in linen closet area. The spacious bedroom also benefits from good natural light and flexible floorplan, and features a large double closet. And not to forget the good sized balcony, offering personal outdoor space for relaxing, dining and even include some gardening...flowers, plants, and or vegetable/herbs. Outstanding amenities; condo fees cover almost everything except cable and internet. This includes all utilites, sewer, trash, snow and all exterior maintenance, community pool. library, meeting room with its own kitchen, and a complimentary van service for local shopping. A stone throw from the lobby to Crum Creek walking trails, and minutes to Swarthmore College and its community amenities, Scott Arboretum, regional rail, the heart of Swarthmore and local shops and restaurants. Also convenient to major roads and the Philly International Airport. Storage units available to rent through the office. This is a great opportunity at an affordable price to enjoy an easy lifestyle in a great location, setting, and community. Bring your own personal touches and make this one yours! Seller is looking for offers!

801 Yale Ave Unit #1215, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of BHHS Fox & Roach-Media. Contact: (610) 566-3000

$1,199,900
5 Beds 3 Baths
Nestled beneath mature shade trees on a beautifully landscaped lot in the historic Swarthmore Crest neighborhood, this distinguished Georgian Colonial Revival blends timeless elegance with modern comfort. Its stately Roman-inspired columned façade, classic center hall design, & thoughtfully updated interiors create a truly magazine-worthy residence in one of Delaware County's most desirable communities. Located within the Borough of Swarthmore, renowned for its walkable, tree-lined streets, vibrant college-town atmosphere, and award-winning schools, this exceptional home offers both charm & convenience as a predominant Main Line living alternative. The welcoming center entrance hall is accented by a tucked-away powder room & leads to gracious living spaces filled with character and natural light. Rich hardwood flooring extends throughout the main level, with the exception of the kitchen, enhancing the home's warmth & timeless appeal. The expansive formal living room serves as a stunning gathering space, highlighted by a beautiful marble mantel fireplace, elegant architectural details, & ample room for entertaining. An enclosed side porch provides flexible living space ideal for a home office, fitness room, playroom, or quiet retreat. The spacious formal dining room is equally impressive, offering abundant space for hosting holiday dinners, celebrations, and large family gatherings. The designer-inspired eat-in kitchen serves as the heart of the home, featuring a large center island, six-burner KitchenAid range, cozy sitting area with a gas fireplace, & abundant space for gathering & entertaining. A bonus room adjacent to the kitchen offers additional flexibility as a mudroom, office, laundry area, or hobby space. The second floor features three spacious bedrooms, including a primary suite with California Closets, an updated en-suite bath, & private access to a rooftop area. A second oversized bedroom includes a step down to an attached bonus room; this space is ideal for a sitting room, game room, dressing area, nursery, or additional closet space. The third bedroom is currently configured as a laundry room & features custom California Closet organization, but could easily be converted back to a generous bedroom & laundry relocated. The third floor offers two additional bedrooms & a bathroom awaiting repairs, presenting endless possibilities for guest quarters, an au pair suite, teen retreat, or expanded living space. The lower level provides additional finished living space highlighted by a charming curved archway leading to a spacious den, along with storage, utility areas, a French drain system along the front of the home, a sump pump, and original fire-safety door with a drop-bar latch & strap hinges that reflect the home's historic character. Outdoor living is equally impressive, featuring yard space on all sides, including a fenced in section with a wraparound paver patio just off the kitchen, complimented by a hot tub for year-round enjoyment. A rear driveway accommodates four or more vehicles along with the attached 1-car garage and allows for easy access to Baltimore Pike. Numerous improvements enhance the home's value and efficiency, including custom blinds & plantation shutters, replacement of all but two windows, a replaced sewer line, newer multi-zone boiler, zoned central air conditioning, beautifully remodeled full bathrooms, dimensional shingle roof with updated gutters & downspouts. This rare offering combines historic architecture, thoughtful updates, flexible living spaces, & an exceptional location to create a truly special place to call home. Completing the value of this home is its convenience to Swarthmore College, public transportation, 476 access to King of Prussia, as well as I-95 to tax free Delaware, the Airport, or even a short commute to Philadelphia. **One or more photo(s) in this listing have been virtually staged to show alternative paint colors & decor & even use possibilities**

15 Crest Ln, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of RE/MAX Hometown Realtors. Contact: 6105661340

$839,000
6 Beds 4 Baths
Fantastic new price!! Magnificent 1900s Swarthmore home with unparalleled charm. Think soaring ceilings, gorgeous hardwood floors, a classic wrap-around front porch, dual staircases and more. Wonderful location—just two blocks from the train and town center and directly across the street from Swarthmore College grounds. This stunning three-story home features six Bedrooms and two versatile Bonus Rooms (currently utilized as an Office and Yoga Room) across the upper floors. Enter through the Front Porch into a spectacular Living Room, complete with a gas fireplace, cozy built-in bench, and oversized diamond-pane windows that flood the space with natural light. A stunning Dining Room follows—big enough for your largest holiday table. The updated eat-in Kitchen with a new Samsung fridge is located at the rear of the home. There is also a Mud Room Suite in this area, offering a Powder Room, Laundry area, and ample storage for coats, boots, and backpacks. Here you will also discover a delightful and spacious Screened Porch—a serene retreat for quiet mornings or summer evening meals. Head up the grand staircase to the second floor where you will find the Primary Suite, offering a walk-in closet and ensuite Bath with a stall shower, jacuzzi tub and dark walnut vanity. On this level there are also two additional Bedrooms plus an Office (with a small balcony!) and a Hall Bath. The third floor offers three more spacious Bedrooms and a dedicated Yoga Room. There is a Hall Bath on this floor too with a tub/shower combination, crisp white subway tile and pretty glass doors that open to a linen closet (and there is a hook up for washer & dryer here too!). The Basement is unfinished, but provides significant storage. Outside, there is a fully fenced in area on the side of the house that was used as a dog run by the previous owners, where you will also find a patio. The driveway and rear of the home are conveniently accessed from Harvard Avenue. (follow the signs!). Walk to town, train, schools, town pool and more from this gem of a home - offering nearly 4000 square feet of space and historic charm. Swarthmore Borough is a small college town located just outside Philadelphia and 15 minutes from Philadelphia Airport. Award-winning schools including Strath Haven High School - which boasts the largest marching band in the state with one out of every three students at the school participating!

212 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of BHHS Fox & Roach-Media. Contact: (610) 566-3000

$1,650,000
Prime Mixed-Use Investment Opportunity in the Heart of Swarthmore. 6 UNITS TOTAL !! Welcome to 13–15 South Chester Road—an exceptional 6-unit mixed-use asset strategically located in the highly desirable downtown Swarthmore. This excellent positioned property features 4 residential units and 2 street-level commercial spaces, offering investors a compelling combination of stable income, strong tenant demand, and future value-add potential. The residential component consists of 4 well-maintained 1-bedroom, 1-bath units, each offering functional layouts, full kitchens, and ample storage. With consistent long term rental history and predominantly occupied units, the property delivers a reliable and predictable income stream. Utilities are separate, tenants pay their own electric and heating ( gas) bill. Current rents are below market value. At street level, 2 well established commercial tenants benefit from high visibility and foot traffic in a vibrant retail setting. One space features a large storefront with additional storage and basement access, while the second is a thoughtfully built-out studio with separate baths. Investors have the flexibility to maintain the current configuration or combine both spaces into a single ±3,090 SF commercial unit, creating leasing versatility and potential for increased rental income. Private, assigned parking—a rare and highly valuable amenity in downtown Swarthmore. Recent capital improvements, including a new underground sewage system (2023) and renovations to kitchens and baths in select units. Value-add opportunity with unfinished third-floor space (approx. 2/3 of second-floor footprint), offering potential to expand unit count or increase rental income (subject to township approvals). Situated directly across from the Swarthmore train station and moments from Swarthmore College, this location ensures consistent rental demand from both residential and commercial tenants. Location is prime with opportunity to acquire income-producing asset with upside potential in one of Delaware County’s most sought-after submarkets. Contact us today to schedule a private tour and learn more about this great property and take the next step towards securing a valuable asset in a thriving community. - Detailed income and expense information is available for review.

13 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of KW Greater West Chester. Contact: (610) 436-6500

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