South Jersey Home Buying Guide 2026: Camden County, Cherry Hill & Across the River

For families who work in or near Philadelphia but want a yard, newer construction, and a different pace, South Jersey is the answer just across the Delaware River. Camden County and its neighbors offer suburban space at prices below North Jersey — while keeping the city a bridge away. This guide covers buying a home in South Jersey in 2026.

What "South Jersey" Means Here

For a Philadelphia-area buyer, South Jersey usually means the New Jersey counties directly across the river and just inland:

• Camden County — directly across from Philadelphia; towns like Cherry Hill, Voorhees, and Haddonfield, plus more affordable communities
• Gloucester County — further south and west, generally more affordable and growing fast
• Burlington County — large and varied, stretching from river towns well inland

Cherry Hill in particular is a long-established choice for families, with strong schools and an easy Philadelphia commute.

The Philadelphia Commute

South Jersey's appeal rests heavily on access to Philadelphia. The PATCO Speedline rail connects Camden County towns to Center City, and the bridges — Ben Franklin, Walt Whitman, Betsy Ross — carry drivers across daily. If a household member commutes into the city, proximity to PATCO or a bridge is part of the home's real value.

The Cost Trade-Off vs. Philadelphia

Property Taxes by Town

In South Jersey, as everywhere in New Jersey, the property-tax bill is set locally and varies a great deal between municipalities. Two similar homes a few towns apart can carry very different taxes. Always confirm the actual tax for the exact town before you set your price range — and remember the tax is collected monthly through your escrow account.

Programs for South Jersey Buyers

Statewide NJHMFA programs apply across South Jersey — the down payment assistance loan of up to $15,000, the First-Generation grant, and the NJHMFA first mortgage. Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington counties also have local programs funded through federal HOME dollars. A first-time buyer here has FHA, VA, and conventional options layered with NJHMFA help.

Plan Before You Cross the River

South Jersey is a genuinely strong option for Philadelphia-area families — but the property-tax difference between towns is large enough to change your budget. We calculate your full monthly payment for specific South Jersey homes, taxes included, so you choose with the real numbers in front of you.