Ambler, PA Neighborhood Guide

Mix easy access to the city with suburban, small-town charm and you get Ambler, PA. Located 45 minutes from Center City, Philadelphia via the Lansdale/Doylestown Line, this is a lush suburban neighborhood that continues to draw new residents in from the surrounding suburbs and city alike. 

First-time homeowners love this neighborhood: Ambler has been rated one of the top Philadelphia suburbs by millennials and other young professionals. Why? Walkability is a big reason. With a walking score of 71, this suburb is far more walkable than similar neighborhoods throughout the greater Philly region. Downtown Ambler has been revitalized in recent years and offers a variety of shops and services along its tree-lined main street, making it convenient to grab a drink after work or visit a barbershop. 

Greenspace, including easy access to the Wissahickon trails, ensures that exercise and outdoor access are an attractive benefit to living here. And the Lindenwold Castle, home of the late Richard Mattison, an asbestos magnate, serves as an iconic local landmark.

Forest & Main Brewery, located in downtown Ambler

Local Real Estate Market

Single-family homes are the standard here, and home prices have risen steadily over the past five years. It’s still possible to find a reasonably-priced starter home in Ambler, but put in an offer quickly if you find one you like - homes tend to sell for more in this neighborhood, and million-dollar price tags aren’t too uncommon.

• Average home price today: $451,775
• Average home price 5 years ago: $358,000

Advice From a Local Realtor

“Ambler is a great area. There is a strong mix of old and new homes. There are big stone homes that speak to so much history, and the chic newer homes to stay fresh. 

I love the Act 2 Playhouse on Butler Ave; so much character and fun surrounded by quirky restaurants and charming little boutiques. Ambler is walkable and suburban, all at the same time. Throw in the train to Philly, and you've got it all.”

-Buyer agent Diane Winkelman

What Can You Get in Ambler?

This 1,776 sq.ft home in Ambler PA listed for $388,500 in 2018 and sold through Houwzer. For this price, homeowners received 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, a brick patio, a large fenced-in yard, gorgeous hardwood flooring throughout, and a garage. 

Amber, Pennsylvania Stats

• Number of residents: 6,496
• Median age: 36
• Walkability score: 71
• Cost of living: 108.4% index (U.S. average is 100 - Philadelphia average is 101.2%)
• Safety: local crime statistics (including violent and property crime) via Niche

Commuting

The easy commute from Ambler to Center City, Philadelphia is part of its appeal to young families looking to escape the city without losing out on convenience. It's also an easy drive from the popular commercial hub of KOP.

• Commute to Center City: 45 minutes via car; 35 via the Lansdale/Doylestown Line
• Commute to King of Prussia: 23 minutes via car; 1.5 hours (or longer) via public transport

Things to Do in Ambler

Ambler may not be as busy as Philadelphia proper, but that doesn't make it sleepy. There's plenty to taste, sip, and see in Ambler, PA. 

• Restaurant: The Lucky Well - this modern BBQ spot serves Memphis-style ribs in an industrial-chic setting.
• Bar:Tannery Run Brew Works - creatively brewed and creatively named drinks pair with tasty pub foods at this spacious brewery.
• Coffee: Wake Coffee Roasters - wake up and smell the nitro cold brew at this beloved morning institution. 
•  Daytime Activity: Rose Bridge Farm & Sanctuary - snuggle goats and cow bottle baby cows. Rose Bridge offers kid-friendly options as well as BYOB evening events perfect for a unique twist on girls' night!

Ambler History 

Ambler began as historical territory of the Lenni Lenape Native Americans. The area was then settled by Quakers, who emigrated to the United States from Europe. In 1856, a disastrous train accident killed 59 people near Wissahickon Station. Local Quaker woman Mary Ambler gathered medical supplies and walked several miles to the crash site to help survivors, and the town was later named after her, in honor of her heroism that day.

Further Reading

• NJ or PA Philadelphia Suburbs: The First Time Homeowners’ Dilemma
• Phoenixville, Collegeville and KOP: 3 Popular Philadelphia Suburbs
• Top 5 Philadelphia Neighborhoods for First Home Buyers
• The Cost of Living in Philadelphia: More Affordable Than Most Big Cities