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
  • Home values: Smaller homes in Milmont Park and Swarthmorewood at the entry end, the historic homes on the borough's signature streets at the top. My Swarthmore market report shows current listings and recent sales.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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.

Homes from the early 1900s come with early-1900s plaster, windows, and masonry. If you buy one, a Delaware County directory of old-house specialists can help you find someone who knows how to repair it rather than replace it.

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?
Smaller homes in Milmont Park and Swarthmorewood are the entry point, and the historic homes on Yale Avenue, Westdale Avenue, and the central borough streets sit at the top. For current numbers, see my Swarthmore market report.

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

400 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore
$1,240,000
6 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths
An exceptional Georgian Colonial Revival home located in Swarthmore, offered for the first time in over 33 years. Built in 1920 with the finest materials, this home represents a tangible piece of heritage that has been lovingly restored by its current owner. The expansive 4,300-square-foot residence features 6 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a water closet. The exterior is handsomely constructed with red brick, sandstone lintels with central keystones, double-hung wood windows, slate and copper roofs, copper gutters, and steel I-beam construction. The beauty of its exterior is matched only by the splendor of its interior. As you enter, you are greeted by a vestibule featuring leaded-glass side panels, an overhead arched fanlight window, and a multicolored Moravian Mercer tile floor. A grand formal foyer with an elegant central split staircase welcomes you inside. Original, beautifully restored old-growth oak floors run throughout the home. On the main level, you will find a spacious formal living room with a central fireplace flanked by French doors. The fireplace is framed with handmade Moravian Mercer tiles—a true masterpiece of the American Arts and Crafts Movement. All three wood-burning fireplaces in the home are adorned with these authentic, original tiles created by Henry Chapman Mercer. Accessible from the living room through double French doors, the south-facing sunroom serves as an expansive, light-filled sanctuary surrounded by original multi-pane historic glass windows and cast-iron radiators for year-round comfort. French doors also separate the foyer from the handsome dining room, which features an original built-in corner hutch and ample natural light from a multi-pane casement window alongside a triple double-hung window. A central fireplace serves as a focal point, adorned with famous Moravian Mercer tiles and a finely detailed mantelpiece. Located between the dining room and the kitchen is another original feature: a beautiful and functional butler’s pantry, perfect for staging meals and storing fine china, stemware, silver flatware, and linens. The renovated kitchen respects the aesthetic of the house, built thoughtfully within the original footprint to remain functional and stylish. A door from the kitchen provides access to the rear portico, backyard, and two-car garage. The layout of the second floor reflects the classic symmetrical design of Georgian Colonial Revival architecture. At the midpoint landing of the staircase, a handsome Palladian window fills the space with exceptional light before the stairs split symmetrically into two flights leading to a spacious upper foyer. The upper foyer includes a built-in linen cabinet for added convenience. Four bedrooms occupy each corner of this level. The primary bedroom includes an en-suite bathroom and access to a large private balcony situated above the sunroom. A convenient pass-through closet with built-in cabinetry connects the primary bedroom to an adjacent room. Another bedroom features a fireplace framed with original Moravian Mercer tiles and offers direct access to the hall bathroom. The second-floor hall bathroom has been fully restored, retaining its original deep bathtub and shower combination. A staircase off the upper foyer leads to a large and versatile third floor, which offers two well-proportioned bedrooms and a full bathroom. The bathroom was recently renovated and retains its original tub and shower combination. A large cedar closet off the main hallway provides safe seasonal storage, complemented by several additional storage areas and closets throughout the floor. The floors at this level are old-growth pine floors that have retained their rich golden color. The laundry facilities are located in the full, heated basement, which also includes a water closet and an extra-large pantry. A bulkhead door provides convenient access to the rear yard. Do not miss the opportunity to own a true heritage home in Swarthmore.

400 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of BHHS Fox & Roach-Media. Contact:

4 Swarthmore Pl, Swarthmore
$639,900
4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths
Built in 1935 and nestled at the end of a picturesque cul-de-sac in the coveted town of Swarthmore, this exceptional Colonial Revival residence offers a rare blend of historic character, architectural craftsmanship, and timeless elegance. Designed by renowned local builder Carroll Thayer as part of his final major residential project, this three-story home showcases distinctive Arts & Crafts influences throughout its 2,210 square feet of living space. Rich original details abound, including original oak hardwood floors throughout, Mercer tile fireplace accents, original brass sconces, original crown molding throughout, French doors, a graceful curved staircase with an original bentwood railing, and a welcoming 35-foot front porch accessed by a charming Belgian block walkway. The thoughtfully designed interior features four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a grand foyer with built-in art niche, formal dining room with original wainscoting, and a beautifully appointed kitchen with Rutt cabinetry and unique period details. The circular staircase creates an almost turret effect in the rear of the house, and the window from the second floor landing affords a wonderful view of the magnificent gardens. Outside, the enchanting grounds reflect almost six decades of careful cultivation, featuring lush gardens enhanced by plantings from the renowned Scott Arboretum. The long-time resident of 58 years has created a vibrant sanctuary, filled with seasonal blooming flowers and the cheerful sounds of birds. The homeowner's green thumb was only rivaled by an enthusiasm to continually improve the lush grounds. The homes on Swarthmore Place were designed and built by the accomplished craftsman, Carroll Thayer, who is responsible for about 150 distinctive houses in the Borough. This welcoming cul-de-sac was his last major project, with this home created in the Colonial Revival style with a low front porch and a classically laid out interior. The circular staircase creates an almost turret effect in the rear of the house, and the window from the second floor landing affords a wonderful view of the copious gardens. A delightful deck with the vintage Concord grapevine engulfing the arbor creates a private retreat with a gorgeous view overlooking the thriving Koi Pond and water garden accesible from the kitchen. French doors in the dining room lead to a charming arched breezeway, affording effortless outdoor dining under a handwrought stained glass light fixture. Swarthmore is a very special place, sought out as a place to enjoy the charm of small town Americana with tree-lined streets, sidewalks and a wide variety of homes from the 18th century to modern styling. The Village blends quiet suburban tranquility with the intellectual and cultural energy of a prestigious liberal arts institution. Anchored by Swarthmore College, the borough enjoys campus lectures, concerts, and open access to the expansive Scott Arboretum and Crum Woods which spans over 350 acres across the college grounds. The pedestrian-friendly Town Center has a compact downtown core which centers around Park Ave and South Chester Rd, featuring independent boutiques, local eateries, and the community-owned Swarthmore Co-op grocery market. The welcoming vibe of Swarthmore exudes a stable, close-knit community. The convenient location of this charming home is walkable to the nearby shopping mall, Giant grocery store, restaurants, the Swarthmore Swim Club and local Septa train station in the center of town. This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of Swarthmore's architectural heritage while enjoying the comfort, beauty, and character that only a classically designed home can offer.

4 Swarthmore Pl, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Real Estate -Exton. Contact:

315 Union Ave, Swarthmore
$456,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths
Surrounded by tree-lined streets and filled with storybook charm, 315 Union Ave is a warm and welcoming oasis in the heart of Swarthmore. Combining farmhouse character with a generous quarter-acre lot, this happy, Victorian twin is filled with unique personality. Details include a classic front porch, original plank floors, tall functioning windows, exposed brick, and built-in stepback cupboards. The main floor features an arty open living and dining area that flows into a large, cheery eat-in kitchen, and a door to the practical rear mudroom with an exit to the yard. The second level has a wonderfully flexible arrangement of bright, connected rooms offering a 1-2 bedroom layout, with glass-paned French doors, built-in shelving, original woodwork, and large windows that continue the home’s distinctive feel. The full bathroom has its own personality, with crisp beadboard, classic fixtures, a soaking tub, and exposed copper shower hardware. Up one more level, the third floor features sun-filled spaces under angled ceilings that expand the possibilities for an additional bedroom, home office, and/or playroom. Step outside to a sunny, rectangular yard that offers plenty of room to garden, entertain, play, or relax. Beyond the property, Swarthmore is known for its welcoming small-town feel, historic character, and top-rated public schools. 315 Union Avenue is a quick stroll from Swarthmore’s restaurants, shops, Swarthmore College campus, and SEPTA’s Regional Rail service to Philadelphia. Convenient access to I-476 and I-95 keep the rest of the region within easy reach. Schedule your tour today!

315 Union Ave, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of KW Empower. Contact:

110 Park Ave Unit 460, Swarthmore
$1,525,000
2 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths
Experience an unparalleled level of luxury at Unit 460. Every detail of this residence has been thoughtfully curated and expertly executed. The interior boasts the finest appointments, including solid wood-paneled doors, new custom trim, and sensational designer light and plumbing fixtures throughout. The kitchen is a chef’s delight featuring a stunning marble backsplash, subzero refrigerator, cove dishwasher and wolfe range. The bathrooms offer a spa-like retreat with beautifully tiled finishes, designer mirrors and light fixtures and a matte-finish soaking tub in the primary suite. This condo also boasts a Powder Room in addition to the full bathrooms! Additional upgrades include custom California Closets in every closet including the laundry closet and premium window treatments by The Shade Store. The terrace is also one of its best features - with a bird's eye view of all the happenings of downtown Swarthmore and the wonderful view of distant tree tops, this spacious terrace is truly special! Located in the heart of coveted downtown Swarthmore, this home offers more than just luxury; it offers a lifestyle. Enjoy easy access to the esteemed Swarthmore College, its breathtaking arboretum, and a calendar full of cultural and athletic events. Your daily needs are effortlessly met with a charming downtown featuring an independent bookstore, artisanal bakery, Co-op food market, coffee shop, and community library just steps away. In addition to all of this, there is a fabulous Farmer's Market on most weekends, periodic events with an assortment of Philadelphia Food Trucks, Dining Under the Stars on Thursday evenings, and so many additional community events taking place in the center of town! With the SEPTA rail line offering a seamless 25-minute commute to Philadelphia and the International Airport only a 10-minute drive, convenience is paramount. Welcome to 110 Park Avenue—where sophisticated design meets unrivaled walkability and convenience to hot spots near and far!

110 Park Ave Unit 460, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of Compass Pennsylvania, LLC. Contact:

307 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore
$725,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths
Houses like this don’t come to market often. 307 S Chester Road pairs the character and presence of a classic Swarthmore home with the comfort, craftsmanship, and convenience of a complete modern renovation. Thoughtfully redesigned from top to bottom, this three-story residence features all-new plumbing, electrical, windows, and a brand-new two-zone natural gas heating and central air system—all while preserving the architectural details that make the home so special. A twin in name, but certainly not in feel. With four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a first-floor powder room, three stories of living space, a finished basement, soaring ceiling heights, a detached garage, and private off-street parking for four additional vehicles, this home offers a level of space and functionality rarely associated with a twin. Step inside and the scale immediately stands out. 9.5-foot ceilings, custom trim work, and crown molding throughout the first floor create a sense of openness and refinement. New windows were installed within the home’s impressive original openings—many more than 5.5 feet tall—preserving the proportions of the original architecture while filling the interior with natural light. One of the home’s defining features is its original spiral staircase, carefully preserved and visible across all three stories, creating a striking architectural connection between each level. The living room is anchored by an electric fireplace and mantle, while the dining room features a dramatic vaulted ceiling. At the heart of the home, the completely redesigned kitchen showcases custom finishes, illuminated glass-front cabinetry above the upper cabinets, under-cabinet lighting, and thoughtfully selected details throughout. A beautifully finished powder room provides the convenience of a bathroom on the main level. Upstairs, the primary suite was designed as a true retreat with a walk-in closet and custom primary bath featuring a spacious shower with both a traditional wall-mounted shower head and overhead rain shower. Custom tile work continues throughout the bathrooms, while a conveniently located second-floor laundry closet keeps everyday living close to the bedrooms. In total, the home offers four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and one half bath. The finished basement adds another flexible space ideal for a playroom, media room, home gym, or additional entertainment area. Outside, a detached one-car garage and private parking area accommodating four additional vehicles provide something especially valuable in this setting: abundant private off-street parking. Throughout the renovation, the goal was to preserve the stature and architectural character of the original home while introducing the systems, finishes, and conveniences expected today. From the original three-story spiral staircase and soaring windows to the custom millwork, completely updated mechanicals, and carefully considered finishes, 307 S Chester Road offers the increasingly rare opportunity to enjoy the character of classic Swarthmore architecture without sacrificing modern comfort.

307 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of Core Property Management Realty. Contact:

603 Harvard Ave, Swarthmore
$799,950
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths
Some homes are renovated. This one was reimagined. When Arters Collective acquired 603 Harvard Avenue, they saw beyond what years of neglect had left behind. They saw the possibility.The transformation began by reconsidering the home as a whole—its architecture, flow, sightlines, materials, and the way each space would feel to live in.From the redesigned façade and landscaping to the arched openings, custom millwork, herringbone floors, and layered finishes within, every decision was made with intention.The result is a warm, distinctive residence with a bespoke sensibility—thoughtfully reimagined for modern living while preserving a sense of character and permanence. Graceful arched openings create rhythm and connection throughout the home, while custom millwork, warm finishes, and carefully considered sightlines add depth without overwhelming the spaces. Rather than simply updating the interior, Arters Collective refined the existing architecture, transforming standard openings into elegant arches and creating a more cohesive visual flow from room to room From the covered front porch, enter a foyer that leads right into the welcoming living room which is anchored by a wood burning fireplace. From the living room you are lead into the open-concept kitchen and dining space, created by removing a wall to bring the whole first floor into conversation with itself. A gas line was added purely to elevate the cooking experience, and a dedicated door off the dining area leads straight out to the driveway for effortless coming and going. Toward the back of the first floor, a flexible bonus room stands ready to become a den, playroom, or home office — whatever the next chapter requires.Upstairs, three bedrooms and a modest office space offer room to live, work, and rest. The primary suite is anchored by a luxurious en suite bathroom, while the two additional bedrooms share a beautifully updated bathroom of their own. No detail throughout this home was left untouched — this is a top-to-bottom transformation, inside and out. Highlighted features include: Hardwood Herringbone Flooring, Andersen 100 Series Casement Windows — Bronze, Architectural Arched Doorways, Custom Millwork, Second-Floor Bonus Room, Open-Concept Kitchen, Quartz Countertops, Second-Floor Laundry,GE Appliances, Wood-Burning Fireplace, Primary Suite with Private Bath. Location seals the deal. Tucked in the heart of Swarthmore, 603 Harvard Avenue puts you minutes from the Swarthmore train station for an easy commute, the beloved Swarthmore Inn, and the walkable shops, restaurants, and community charm that make this borough one of Delaware County's most sought-after addresses.

603 Harvard Ave, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of Compass Pennsylvania, LLC. Contact:

801 Yale Ave Unit 912, Swarthmore
$205,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths
Originally built in 1893-94, the Strath Haven Inn became a popular resort for Philadelphians seeking a respite from the city. For nearly 70 years it was the center for Swarthmore social events and celebrations. The Inn closed in the 1960s and after a fire, was razed and replaced in 1971 by the current building, then operating as the Wildman Arms Apartments. In 1981 it was converted to condominium ownership and renamed the Strath Haven Condominium Association, though it still allows for some units to be rented out on a short-term basis. Unit 912 is a two bedroom, 2 bath unit perched high above the treetops. The location of this unit is key, as you receive beautiful morning sunlight without the afternoon glare, and you're steps from the elevator. The Living Room includes a handsome shiplap accent wal and wood laminate floors. Glass sliders to the sheltered balcony brig in soft light. The spacious pirmary bedroom offers a wall fo closets and a fullmarble tile master bath with stall shower. The second bedroom is ideal for guests or use as an in-home office. The hall bath is nicely updated with marble tile. The in-unit laundry simplies wash day. And monthly condominium fees cover all major utilities. Amenities abound: a large swimming pool and cabana, a hobby workroom, a bike room, a well-stocked free lending library, and a meeting room. The shops and restaurants of the Ville of Swarthmore and the campus of Swarthmore College are close by. Complimentary van service offers daily shopping trips to Swarthmore, Springfield and Media, and less frequent trips to Booth’s Corner market and other specialty locations. Don’t miss your opportunity to purchase this special home! Unit is being sold AS IS.

801 Yale Ave Unit 912, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of BHHS Fox & Roach-Media. Contact:

801 Yale Ave, Swarthmore
$349,900
Amazing opportunity at Strath Haven Condominium in Swarthmore! Three renovated and updated one-bedroom condominiums are being offered together, with nearly $100,000 in recent improvements. This unique offering creates an incredible amount of flexibility for an investor or an owner-occupant looking for a home with income potential. Live in one and rent the other two, or continue to use all three as investment properties. Also included is a private laundry/storage room for only the three units to use. Currently, one unit is set up as an Airbnb/short-term rental with an existing reservation to be honored through May 2027, one is rented month-to-month, and one is prepaid until October 2027, giving the next owner options from day one. These first-floor units also offer features you don’t typically find in condominium living. Unit 102 has its own exterior stairs with convenient access toward the parking area, while Unit 101 features a small deck and exterior stairs alongside the beautiful community garden. Surrounded by mature landscaping, flowers and a community herb garden, the setting feels wonderfully quiet and serene. Inside, the residences are bright, inviting and thoughtfully updated, with expansive glass doors and abundant natural light. Strath Haven offers a welcoming community atmosphere with a pool, library, laundry facilities, storage, beautifully maintained grounds and gathering spaces, all conveniently located near the heart of Swarthmore, shops, dining and the train. Whether you’re looking to add three properties to your portfolio at once or would love the idea of living in one while the other two generate income, this is a rare opportunity to own three updated residences together in one of Swarthmore’s most established condominium communities.

801 Yale Ave, Swarthmore

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Devon-Wayne. Contact:

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