Hey there, future Bucks County residents.
I’m Dawn D’Amico, your local realtor. And, today we’re diving deep into the heart of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. We’re talking about all the pros and cons of making this beautiful place your new home in 2023.
In this article, I’m going to give you an honest look at the pros and cons of living in Bucks County. I will cover everything from the cost of living, to the job market, the schools and more.
So, whether you are just starting to think about moving to Bucks County or you are ready to make the big move, this article is for you.
Let’s get down to Moving to Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Pros and Cons 2023 (everything you need to know):
First, let’s start with the positive aspects of Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
Positive number one is the gorgeous landscapes.
First and foremost, Bucks County, Pennsylvania boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes you will ever lay your eyes on.
Rolling hills, meandering rivers, waterfalls, and lush forests paint a stunning backdrop to your daily life.
Hiking in Ringing Rocks County Park, High Rocks Park, and Tyler State Park are what locals here love to do.
Have you ever hiked or biked in any of these parks? Tell me in the comments below.
The beauty of Bucks County is a daily reminder of the tranquility that comes with living here.
Positive number two is the historic charm.
If you are a history enthusiast, Bucks County is your haven. The historic charm is embedded in the cobblestone streets of New Hope and the preserved farmhouses of Solberry.
In fact, Bucks County has over 20 historic towns, including Doylestown, New Hope, Bristol Borough, and Newtown, just to name a few. These towns are home to lots of historic sites, museums, boutique shops, breweries, and restaurants. Stories of the past are etched into every corner of Bucks County, and you will feel like you are literally living in a piece of American history.
Which historic town in Bucks County is your favorite? Please tell me about it in the comments below.
Positive number three is our excellent schools for families.
Council Rock High School
Education is a top priority. The school districts in Bucks County consistently rank among the best in the state of Pennsylvania with dedicated teachers, modern facilities, and a strong focus on education.
On student success, your children will have every opportunity to excel and thrive in Bucks County.
Positive number four is our thriving job market.
The job market in Bucks County is on the upswing. You will find a strong job market here, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and technology. The county is also home to a number of agricultural businesses.
Plus, we are strategically located near major cities like Philadelphia and Trenton, New Jersey, offering access to a very diverse range of career opportunities.
Commuting to work is a breeze with a regional rail line that stretches from Philly to the various neighborhoods of Bucks County. And, you get to return to the serenity of Bucks County at the end of your work day.
Positive number five is our vibrant cultural scene.
When it comes to culture, Bucks County has it all. Art galleries, performance theaters, and museums dot the landscape.
There is a rich artistic community here that keeps the cultural calendar packed with events. During each and every season, you will find festivals, celebrations, and community ready to engage with each other.
Whether you are into fine arts or local performances, you will find plenty to keep you entertained right here in Bucks County.
Have you visited Bucks County for any of our events? If so, comment below and tell me all about it.
Positive number six, it is a foodie’s paradise.
Foodies rejoice. The culinary scene in Bucks County is a hidden gem. From farm to table restaurants to charming cafes and bakeries, your taste buds will be on an adventure. There are plenty of farmer’s markets for fresh, locally sourced ingredients to indulge your inner chef.
Positive number seven, wineries, vineyards, and breweries.
Bucks County has a budding wine and beer culture and a visit to one of the many wineries and breweries is a fun way to spend a weekend afternoon sipping wine or beer while taking in the stunning views or local entertainment. That’s a Bucks County experience you will not want to miss.
What’s your favorite Bucks County winery or brewery? Give me it in the comments below.
Now let’s talk about the cons of Bucks County. While it’s a wonderful place to call home, it’s important to be aware of some of the challenges that may come with it.
Negative number one is the commute times.
One of the biggest downsides, especially if you work in Philadelphia, is the potential for longer commute times. While the city is close, heavy traffic during rush hours can be a reality. Not to mention, because of its proximity to Philadelphia, Bucks County has grown in population over the years and it’s crowded.
If you do need to work in the city, many of Bucks County’s neighborhoods are serviced by a regional rail system to get you into the city without fighting traffic. And, with proper planning and maybe a good audiobook or podcast, you can make the most of your commute time.
Negative number two is the cost of living.
Bucks County, while not prohibitively expensive, has varying costs of living across its different neighborhoods.
In areas like Doylestown, Richboro, Yardley, and Newtown, you will find a much higher property price than Bucks County as a whole.
But on the flip side, there are more affordable neighborhoods to explore like Bristol Borough, Morrisville, Levittown, and Bensalem, where you can find homes priced significantly lower than the median price in Bucks County.
It’s essential to find the right balance that suits your budget and your lifestyle.
Negative number three is the cold winters.
Bucks County experiences cold winters and while the snowy landscape can be beautiful, it’s important to be prepared for colder months.
This is the one thing that would ever make me want to leave Bucks County. I absolutely hate the cold.
And, if you suck at driving in good weather, well, you are in for it. Try driving on sheets of ice. We like to call it black ice because you cannot see it. It is a thin layer of ice coating streets in the winter months. It can get very dangerous navigating icy roads around here, especially in areas with more hills.
Snow removal and home insulation are considerations that you will need to account for. If you are moving from a warmer climate where heating your home was not a necessity, well, be aware of the new monthly bill you will have to pay if you move here. Depending on the type of heat you have, it can be a hefty monthly expense.
But, if you enjoy winter sports or cozy nights by the fire, it might be a minor inconvenience for all the charm that comes with the colder seasons here in Bucks County.
Negative number four is tourist season.
Photo: Peddler’s Village (https://peddlersvillage.com/)
The beauty of Bucks County does attract lots of tourists, especially during the warmer months. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Bucks County’s gorgeous hiking and biking trails. Places like Peddler’s Village, Fonthill Castle, Washington Crossing Historic Park, the Mercer Museum, and the Michener Art Museum are popular destinations, too.
This can lead to a little extra traffic and crowded popular spots. The town I live in has turned into a tourist town year round and although it is annoying, it is fun to meet new people who are visiting from outside my immediate neighborhood. It is also a testament to Bucks County’s appeal as a whole.
Remember, no matter where you live, there will always be positives and negatives. And, in Bucks County, the pros far outweigh the cons.
So, are you considering a move to Bucks County, Pennsylvania?
I absolutely love helping people find the right place for them right here in Bucks County. So, don’t be shy. Pick up the phone and call or text me today. My contact details are below.
I’m Dawn D’Amico and I’m a licensed agent in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. If you have decided that your heart is set on living somewhere in Bucks County or in the Philly Metro, reach out to me below. I love hearing from people who want to live in one of the best metros in the entire country, and I’ll talk to you soon.
Dawn D’Amico: 215.962.9307
damico.dawn@gmail.com