Jenkintown

Jenkintown is the kind of place where you can grab coffee on Old York Road, walk home under mature trees, and end the evening listening to music in the town square—all without moving your car. Living in Jenkintown feels like a tight‑knit, highly walkable borough: small in size, big on character, and only about 10 miles from Center City Philadelphia.

Neighborhood Overview

At less than a square mile, Jenkintown is a compact borough in eastern Montgomery County, bordered by Abington and Cheltenham Townships along Old York Road (Route 611). It’s home to roughly 4,500 residents and is known for its independent school district, festivals in the town square, and a main commercial corridor that’s within walking distance of nearly every home.

In my day‑to‑day work helping buyers in Jenkintown, I describe it as “front‑porch living meets city access”—a place where you can know your neighbors, walk to dinner and the train, and still be downtown in under half an hour.

Lifestyle and Local Highlights

Day‑to‑day life in Jenkintown is built around walkability, local businesses, and community events.

Some local highlights when you’re living in Jenkintown:

• Old York Road and downtown: Old York Road is the commercial spine, with The Pavilion shopping center, ACME Markets, service providers, and a lineup of local restaurants and pubs. Favorites include Drake Tavern, Kings Corner, and Lilly’s Authentic Indian Cuisine, plus White House Coffee and Creamery for coffee and pastries.

• Town square and events: The borough hosts festivals, outdoor gatherings, and community events in the town square, helping the small size translate into an active, connected feel.

• Parks and green pockets: Residential streets are leafy and walkable, and Jenkintown residents also use nearby parks in Abington and Cheltenham for playgrounds, fields, and trails.

• Everyday convenience: Within a short walk or quick drive, you can cover groceries, banking, fitness, salons, and medical offices, plus regional shopping along 611 and in neighboring townships.

What surprises many buyers is how “complete” life in such a tiny borough can feel: between Old York Road, the town square, and nearby big‑box retail, you rarely have to go far for what you need.

Housing and Architecture

If you’re wondering, “What types of homes are in Jenkintown?”, think character homes with a mix of single‑family, twins, rowhomes, and condos.

On the ground, Jenkintown real estate usually looks like:

• Single‑family homes: Many with Colonial influences—symmetrical façades, dormer windows, and stone or brick details—plus charming Tudors with exposed beams and stonework.

• Cottages and older styles: Picturesque cottages with gambrel rooftops and farmhouse‑inspired details, reflecting the borough’s 19th‑ and early 20th‑century roots.

• Twins, duplexes, and row homes: Especially west of York Road, you’ll see a mix of detached homes, duplexes, and rowhomes, many now condo or rental options.

• Condos and apartments: Developments like Beaver Hill offer condo living steps from the train and downtown, popular with downsizers and buyers seeking lower‑maintenance homes.

Homes.com notes that houses can enter the market from around $250,000 up to $600,000+, with most buyers paying between $200 and $300 per square foot. A major value index pegs the average Jenkintown home value around $492,752, up about 2.5 percent over the most recent year. In my work with buyers, we pay close attention to how style, condition, and walkability affect pricing, because a renovated Tudor near the square and a larger but dated home farther out can behave like different markets.

Commuting and Location

One of Jenkintown’s biggest draws is how simple it makes getting around the region.

Key commuting and location perks:

• Regional Rail access: Jenkintown‑Wyncote station, just outside the borough line, is a major SEPTA hub serving multiple lines into Center City and beyond, making train commuting a daily reality for many residents.

• Major roads: Old York Road (611) runs through town, with quick links to Route 73, Route 309, the Turnpike, and nearby corridors into Abington, Cheltenham, and Northeast Philadelphia.

• Regional proximity: You’re roughly 10–13 miles from Center City, with easy access to Elkins Park, Glenside, Abington, and Cheltenham for additional parks, shopping, and dining.

For buyers, this usually means real flexibility: you can live a walkable lifestyle at home and still commute by train or car depending on your job. When I help clients evaluate Jenkintown, we map your actual commute—train schedule or driving route—so you know what mornings and evenings will really feel like.

There is no better team to help you with real estate buying or selling in Jenkintown than the Shaina McAndrews Team powered by EXP Realty! You can even find a very embarrassing brick with Shaina’s name in the town square (She was 12 when she was asked what to put on it)…

Let’s Talk! Call now or Book a call to get started.

Life in Jenkintown

Jenkintown, PA is a small borough located in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Here are some things to know about living in Jenkintown:

1. Small-Town Feel: Jenkintown has a close-knit community and a small-town feel. Many residents know each other and there is a strong sense of community.

2. Great Schools: Jenkintown is served by the Jenkintown School District, which is known for its high-quality schools and excellent teachers.

3. Convenient Location: Jenkintown is located near major highways, including the Pennsylvania Turnpike and Route 611, making it easy to travel to other parts of the state or the country. It is also located just a short drive from major shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options.

4. Cultural Attractions: Jenkintown has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several galleries, theaters, and music venues in the area. The Hiway Theater, which is a historic movie theater, is a popular destination for both residents and visitors.

5. Outdoor Recreation: Jenkintown has several parks and recreational areas, including Jenkintown-Wyncote Station Park and Alverthorpe Park. These parks offer playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and other outdoor activities.

6. Family-Friendly: Jenkintown is a great place to raise a family, with good schools, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of family-friendly activities and events throughout the year.

Overall, Jenkintown is a friendly and welcoming borough with a strong sense of community, great schools, and plenty of cultural attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities. It's a great place to live for those who enjoy small-town living with easy access to major cities and amenities.

Real estate market in Jenkintown, PA

2025 Housing Market Snapshot

If you’re asking, “How is the housing market in Jenkintown?”, the 2025 numbers tell a story of rising inventory, shifting prices by segment, and a market that leaned more toward buyers than in some nearby suburbs.

Key 2025 metrics:

• June 2025: A housing market report shows a median home list price of $509,000, down 7.5 percent from May, with a median price per square foot of $239.​

• Inventory jump: There were 59 homes for sale in June 2025, up from 35 in May—an increase of about 68.6 percent month‑over‑month, with inventory rising in every bedroom category.​

• By bedroom type: June 2025 list prices increased for 1‑, 2‑, and 3‑bedroom homes (+21.2%, +4.1%, +11.5% respectively), while prices decreased for 4‑bedroom (‑5.5%) and 5‑bedroom (‑14.2%) homes compared with the prior month.​

• Realtor.com’s late‑2024/October 2025 snapshot calls Jenkintown a buyer’s market, with 60 for‑sale listings, a median listing price of $435,000, and a price per square foot of $209. Month‑over‑month, for‑sale count rose 12.7 percent, median sale price rose 10.57 percent, days on market dropped 66.67 percent, and price per square foot dipped 2.39 percent.​

• Year‑over‑year, for‑sale count increased 46.03 percent, median sale price fell 12.18 percent, days on market fell 88.89 percent, and price per square foot fell 12.44 percent, indicating more options but some pressure on pricing.​

• A value index shows the average home value at about $492,752, up 2.5 percent over the prior year.​

Redfin’s December 2025 snapshot notes that Jenkintown home prices were down 2.8 percent year over year, with a median sale price around $350,000, and homes selling after about 32 days on market, compared with 71 days the year before.​

In practice, this meant that 2025 in Jenkintown felt like a more balanced, even buyer‑tilted market compared with many neighboring towns. For buyers, higher inventory and mixed price trends showed up as more choices and more room to negotiate—especially on larger, higher‑priced homes and those needing updates. You still needed to be prepared for competition on standout, move‑in‑ready homes near the square or train, but you also saw list price reductions, particularly in the 4‑ and 5‑bedroom segments.

For sellers, the opportunity was still there, but strategy mattered: pricing conservatively relative to recent comps, being realistic about condition, and leaning into staging and presentation were crucial to stand out in a growing inventory pool. When I work with sellers in Jenkintown, we keep a close eye on how quickly similar homes are going under contract and how list‑to‑sale ratios are shifting—especially by bedroom count and condition.

Real‑life takeaway: In 2025, Jenkintown was a more buyer‑friendly, inventory‑rich market where well‑prepared buyers could find opportunities, and sellers who priced and presented wisely still achieved solid results.

2026 Housing Market Outlook

By early 2026, Jenkintown’s housing market looks steady, with moderate appreciation at the index level but continued nuance in closed sale prices.

Recent indicators:

• The average home value sits around $492,752, up about 2.5 percent year over year, suggesting overall price stability with gentle upward movement.​

• Redfin’s December 2025 data shows the median sale price at $350,000, down 2.8 percent versus the prior year, with homes selling in about 32 days, much faster than the previous year’s 71‑day average.​

• Realtor.com continues to describe Jenkintown as a buyer’s market in late 2025, with elevated for‑sale counts and year‑over‑year declines in median sale price and price per square foot.​

For buyers, this shows up as a market where you can take a more measured approach than in many inner‑ring suburbs: there is inventory to choose from, and you may have room to negotiate on price, repairs, or credits—especially on larger or higher‑priced homes and those that have been listed a while. Well‑located, well‑priced homes near the train and downtown still attract attention, but you’re less likely to see extreme bidding wars than a few years ago.

For sellers, the opportunity in 2026 is to recognize that Jenkintown remains desirable for its walkability, schools, and location, but buyers are value‑conscious. Pricing must align with the most recent few months of closings, not just list prices or past peaks. In my work with Jenkintown sellers now, we focus on sharpening the value story—condition, updates, proximity to Old York Road and the station—so buyers can clearly see why your home is worth your asking price.

Real‑life takeaway: Through 2026, Jenkintown looks like a walkable, in‑demand borough with a more balanced, data‑sensitive market where thoughtful strategy and realistic pricing matter for both buyers and sellers.

Who This Area Is Great For

From my work with buyers across eastern Montgomery County, Jenkintown tends to be a great fit if you’re looking for:

• A walkable, small‑town feel: Sidewalks, town square, and the ability to walk to dining, services, and the train.

• Character homes: Stone Tudors, Colonials, cottages, and historic styles rather than large new‑build subdivisions.

• Strong community identity: Festivals, local businesses, and a borough‑run school district that contribute to a close community feel.

• Flexible commuting: Easy access to Jenkintown‑Wyncote station and main roads into Center City and surrounding suburbs.

• A mix of single‑family homes, twins, and condos, giving options for first‑time buyers, move‑up buyers, and downsizers.

If you’re asking, “Is Jenkintown a good place to live?”, it’s especially compelling if you value walkability, community, and character homes as much as you value commute and convenience.

Buying a Home in Jenkintown

When I help clients with buying a home in Jenkintown, we start by getting clear on three things: how important walkability and train access are to you, how much character versus turnkey condition you want, and what budget range feels comfortable.

A typical Jenkintown home search might include:

• Touring a mix of streets west of Old York Road and near Beaver Hill to see how single‑family homes, twins, and condos each feel in your daily routine.

• Reviewing very recent local sales—by bedroom count and style—so you understand what similar homes have actually sold for, how long they took to go under contract, and where sellers have settled on price.

• Planning your offer strategy for a buyer‑tilted but still competitive market: knowing when to move quickly and come in strong (for a standout home near the square or station) and when there’s room to negotiate based on days on market and condition.

For buyers wondering, “How is the housing market in Jenkintown?”, the honest answer is that it’s one of the more navigable walkable borough markets right now—competitive on the best homes, but with inventory and data that give you room for good decisions instead of impulse. What my clients usually care most about is getting the right blend of charm, walkability, and payment without overextending—and that’s exactly what we build your plan around.

Fun Things to do in jenkintown, pa

Jenkintown, PA is a small borough located in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. While it may be small, there are plenty of fun things to do in Jenkintown. Here are a few ideas:

1. Visit the Hiway Theater: This historic theater has been entertaining audiences since 1913 and offers a variety of films and live performances.

2. Explore the Jenkintown Farmers Market: Held on Sundays from May to November, this market offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music.

3. Take a Walk: Jenkintown has several parks and walking trails, including the Abington Friends School Trail and the Jenkintown Creek Trail.

4. Check Out the Art Scene: Jenkintown has a thriving arts community, with several galleries and studios in the area. Be sure to check out The Art of It All gallery or the Abington Art Center.

5. Attend a Festival or Event: Throughout the year, Jenkintown hosts several festivals and events, including the Jenkintown Festival of the Arts and the Jenkintown Holiday Parade.

6. Dine at Local Restaurants: Jenkintown has a variety of local restaurants offering everything from casual dining to fine dining. Some popular options include Newbolds, Marzano’s, and Lily’s Indian Restaurant.

Overall, Jenkintown may be a small borough, but there are plenty of fun things to do in the area, from attending events and exploring the arts scene to enjoying the local parks and dining at the many restaurants.

Community Events

Nestled within walking distance of both Noble Train Station and the Jenkintown Train Station, this little town with a big heart has a cute town center. Check out the gazebo and little garden. If you’re bored, try to find the brick with my name on it or the one with my former dogs (Max and Jack). Quick drive to Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and Acme.

Apart from great restaurants, bars, cafes, brewery, shops, gyms, art gallery, farmers market, and award winning school district, Jenkintown hosts numerous community events for all to get involved throughout the year.  The largest turnout prize has to go to the Arts Festival held each September which brings thousands to the little town to support artisans. Listen to live music and visit the beer tent which caters to those who would like to make use of the open container law. In the Summer months, neighbors gather Tuesday evenings for music in the town square.

Perhaps the greatest event in Jenkintown is Color Day and alongside it the Red and Blue Fair. It has its own Mischief Night the night before so if you see your neighbors house decorated with toilet paper in the month of May, give a little chuckle and show your Red or Blue Team support! My parents chose the Blue team for my older sister when they registered her for Kindergarten- I was automatically a Blue as they like to keep families together! Definitely helped cut down on purchasing different face and body paints when we were kids. As a side note, you can tell who won the last Color Day by the paint on the bell located on the corner of the football field by Greenwood Ave.

The Fourth of July parade is another favorite. Since most people participate in the parade, there are few onlookers. Jenkintown is also host to the annual Sunset 5K run every June which ends with music in the town square.

Schools and Education

Jenkintown has its own small, independent public school system: the School District of Jenkintown.

Families can review data from:

• The Jenkintown School District website via Jenkintown Borough’s “School District” page, which outlines the district’s mission, grade spans, and program highlights.​

• Niche.com, which provides a district profile including overall ratings, student‑teacher ratios, and parent reviews for Jenkintown School District.​

• GreatSchools.org and SchoolDigger for school‑by‑school profiles, test score summaries, and comparison tools for Jenkintown Elementary School and Jenkintown Middle/High School.

Publicly available information indicates that Jenkintown School District operates two schools:

• Jenkintown Elementary School (K–6) – Serves just over 300 students and offers core academics plus art, music, physical education, world language (FLES), and various extracurricular activities.​

• Jenkintown Middle/High School (7–12) – Houses the upper grades in a combined building and offers a full secondary curriculum and activities.​

Sources such as SchoolDigger note that both schools have high proficiency rates on state assessments and graduation metrics that exceed statewide averages, though families should review detailed data themselves. According to Niche, the district receives strong overall ratings based on academics, teachers, and college prep, but individual experiences can vary.

I always encourage clients to confirm school assignments directly with the district, visit schools in person when possible, and rely on multiple resources—district site, Niche, GreatSchools, and personal tours—when evaluating schools and educational fit.

Restaurants & Bars

Considering the size of this small town, there are plenty of restaurants to visit!

Marzano Ristorante: Lovely Italian restaurant. Front entrance is located in the town square. Large inside and can accommodate private dining for special events. My favorite is the burrata :) Limited outside seating available. BYOB!!

Lilly’s: Great new restaurant opened in 2020. Fantastic owner named his latest restaurant after his mother. Lilly’s has authentic Indian dishes. Choose your level of spice and ask staff for dish recommendations! BYOB!!

The Herb Shop & Tea Lounge: Cute tea cafe with light foods. Perfect tucked away lunch spot. Outdoor seating available. Take delicious tea home with you.

Fill A Bagel and Breads: Bagels with all sorts of toppings including lox. Coffee Fans: They serve La Colombe Coffee! Get a fresh loaf of bread, too.

King’s Corner: Scottish and English style pub on Summit Ave. Has a beer garden and 2 chalkboards full of beer options + plenty of bottle selections. Full menu of English style foods.

J-Town Market & Eatery: Grab empanadas and other delicious takeout as well as convenience items.

Drake Tavern: Located on 611, has a full bar and is known for their burgers. Outside seating available.

White Horse Cafe: Delicious coffee and ice cream. Great place to chill and meet a friend or colleague.

Velvet Sky Bakery: Order a designer cake, cupcakes, brownies, scones, pies, and more!

Borough Brewhouse- Neshaminy Creek Brewery: This large brewpub has plenty of seating and plenty of beer! Check out their events such as quizzo or stop by any time and grab a boardgame off one of their shelves.

West Ave Grille: What a Jenkintown breakfast staple! Did you know that Obama stopped by at the West Ave Grille? Perfect spot for brunch:)

Bella’s Restaurant & Pizzeria: A family favorite for us- dine in (byob) or take out. Try the white pizza! Staff is always friendly.

Get Connected:

Facebook:

Jenkintown Food Cupboard

Jenkintown Community Page

Photograph Jenkintown

Jenkintown Boro

Instagram:

@JenkintownLibrary

@Jenkintown_borough

@Jenkintownfest

Jenkintown Borough Website

Ask me about buying, selling, and renting properties in Jenkintown.

Whether you’re months away from moving or already scrolling homes for sale in Jenkintown every night, you don’t have to figure this out on your own.

In my day‑to‑day work as Shaina McAndrews, realtor, my team and I help buyers and sellers in Jenkintown and nearby areas (Glenside, Elkins Park, Abington, Cheltenham) turn “maybe we should move” into a clear, realistic plan rooted in local data.

You have two simple, low‑pressure ways to take the next step:

1. Quick call about buying or selling

Schedule a short call here:
https://calendly.com/agentshainamc/quick-call

On this call, we can:

• Talk through your timeline, budget, and goals.

• Answer your questions about living in Jenkintown and how it compares to nearby towns like Glenside, Elkins Park, or Mt. Airy.

• Walk through what the Jenkintown real estate market is doing right now in your price range, including how competitive it is for the type of home you want.

• Map out clear next steps so you know exactly how to move from “just browsing” to a plan that fits your life—whether that’s 2 months or 12 months from now.

2. Jenkintown home value and pricing insight

If you already own a home in or near Jenkintown and want to understand what it might sell for in today’s market, start here:
http://app.cloudcma.com/api_widget/4c119a73549ddc99191fd9e9192a3990/show?post_url=https://app.cloudcma.com&source_url=ua

You’ll receive a detailed, data‑driven home value report that includes:

• Recent comparable sales in Jenkintown and similar nearby neighborhoods.

• Current pricing, days‑on‑market, and price‑per‑square‑foot trends for homes like yours.

• A realistic value range for your property based on today’s conditions, not just past peaks.

From there, if it makes sense, we can refine the numbers with an in‑person walkthrough and build a step‑by‑step plan for selling in the next 6–18 months—or simply keep you updated until the timing is right.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just starting to explore Jenkintown real estate, having a local expert in your corner means better data, better strategy, and fewer surprises. In my experience, that’s what turns “maybe someday” into a move that actually happens—and feels right when it does.

CHECK OUT NEARBY NEIGHBORHOODS:

Abington

Glenside

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Lower Moreland

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