Cherry Hill, New Jersey: 10,000+ Essential Facts and Figures

Overview

Nestled in the picturesque suburbs of Southern New Jersey, Cherry Hill is a bustling township that offers a vibrant blend of residential charm and commercial convenience. With a population of over 71,000 residents and a sprawling area of 24.2 square miles, Cherry Hill ranks among the state's top 20 largest municipalities.

Key Demographics:

• Population: 71,045 (2020 Census)
• Median Age: 41.5 years
• Racial Composition:
  • White: 76.9%
  • Black or African American: 12.7%
  • Asian: 6.1%
  • Hispanic or Latino (of any race): 9.1%

Economic Profile:

Cherry Hill boasts a thriving economy with a diverse business sector. It is home to the Cherry Hill Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the United States, attracting millions of visitors annually. Other major employers in the area include Virtua Health, Subaru of America, and TD Bank.

• Median Household Income: $100,885 (2020 Census)
• Poverty Rate: 4.5%

Amenities and Attractions

Cherry Hill offers an array of amenities and attractions to suit every taste and interest:

Parks and Recreation:

• Cooper River Park: 1,350-acre park with hiking trails, fishing areas, and picnic grounds
• Croft Farm Arts Center: Hosts exhibitions, workshops, and classes in various artistic disciplines
• Cherry Hill Municipal Complex: Features a public library, ice skating rink, and fitness center

Shopping and Dining:

• Cherry Hill Mall: Over 150 stores and restaurants, including department stores, fashion boutiques, and dining options
• The Promenade at Sagemore: Upscale outdoor shopping center with luxury retailers and fine dining establishments
• Towne Place at Garden State Park: Entertainment and dining complex with a casino, restaurants, and live music venues

Arts and Culture:

• Cherry Hill Historical Society: Preserves and promotes the township's history through exhibits and programs
• Ritz Theatre: Hosts live performances, movies, and community events
• Garden State Discovery Museum: Interactive museum designed for children and families

Real Estate Market

Cherry Hill's real estate market is highly competitive, with home prices hovering around $500,000. The median home value has increased by over 20% in the past five years.

Housing Statistics:

• Median Home Value: $492,500 (Zillow, 2023)
• Median Rent: $1,850 (Apartment Guide, 2023)
• Homeownership Rate: 73.4%

Transportation

Cherry Hill is well-connected to major transportation routes, making it easily accessible from all directions.

• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): 13 miles away
• PATCO Speedline: Rapid transit system connecting Cherry Hill to Philadelphia
• New Jersey Transit: Provides bus and rail services to various destinations within the state and beyond

Education

Cherry Hill is renowned for its exceptional public school system. The township is served by the Cherry Hill Public School District, which operates 16 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 2 high schools.

• Graduation Rate: 94.2% (2022)
• College-Bound Rate: 89.5%

Healthcare

Cherry Hill is a hub for healthcare services, with Virtua Health, one of the largest healthcare systems in New Jersey, headquartered in the township.

• Virtua Health System: Provides comprehensive medical care, including hospitals, clinics, and emergency services
• Cooper University Hospital: A Level 1 Trauma Center located just across the Delaware River in Camden

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When considering Cherry Hill as a potential place to live, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Assuming it's too expensive: While home prices in Cherry Hill are relatively high, there are still affordable options available for first-time buyers and those on a budget.
• Overlooking the school district: The Cherry Hill Public School District is highly regarded, but it's important to research individual schools and their performance before making a final decision.
• Neglecting to consider transportation: Cherry Hill is well-connected, but it's still essential to factor in commuting times and transportation costs when choosing a home.

How to Choose the Right Neighborhood in Cherry Hill

With over 20 neighborhoods to choose from, finding the right fit in Cherry Hill can be a daunting task. Here's a step-by-step approach to help you narrow down your options:

1. Identify Your Needs: Determine your housing budget, preferred school district, and desired amenities.
2. Explore the Neighborhoods: Visit different areas of Cherry Hill to get a feel for the local atmosphere and home styles.
3. Read Online Reviews: Check out neighborhood reviews on websites like Niche and Nextdoor to gain insights from residents.
4. Talk to Locals: Engage with residents and ask for their recommendations on the best places to live.
5. Consult a Real Estate Agent: A knowledgeable real estate agent can provide valuable guidance and help you find the perfect home for your needs.

Pros and Cons of Living in Cherry Hill

Pros:

• Exceptional public school system
• Thriving retail and dining scene
• Ample park space and recreational opportunities
• Convenient transportation options
• Strong healthcare infrastructure

Cons:

• High cost of living, particularly for housing
• Traffic congestion during peak hours
• Limited public transportation options within the township
• Some areas may experience noise from nearby highways

Unique Application of Cherry Hill

Beyond its residential and commercial offerings, Cherry Hill presents a unique opportunity for businesses and entrepreneurs to leverage its assets in innovative ways. One such application is the concept of "Cherry Hill Commons," which envisions the township as a hub for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth.

• Smart City Initiatives: Cherry Hill is exploring smart city technologies to enhance its infrastructure, improve traffic management, and reduce environmental impact.
• Incubator Spaces: The township provides incubator spaces for startups and small businesses, fostering entrepreneurship and economic vitality.
• Research Partnerships: Cherry Hill is partnering with universities and research institutions to develop cutting-edge technologies and solutions that benefit the community.
• Community Gardens: The township supports community gardens to promote healthy living, reduce food insecurity, and connect residents with nature.

Tables

Table 1: Population Distribution by Age Group

Table 2: Economic Indicators

Table 3: Educational Attainment

Table 4: Housing Characteristics