If you’re considering a move to Cherry Hill, NJ and your eyes have landed on the Ashland neighborhood, you’re not alone. This established community, tucked just south of Evesham Road and meandering along Burnt Mill Road and Charleston Road, has built a reputation as one of Cherry Hill’s friendliest and most convenient spots to call home. Ask a neighbor, and you’ll hear a chorus of praise for Ashland’s small-town feel, wide range of homes, walkability, and proximity to just about everything.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Neighborly, and Diverse
The first thing you’ll likely notice about Ashland is its inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re strolling along Mercer Street or walking your dog on Ashland Avenue, neighbors tend to greet each other by name. Many residents have called Ashland home for decades and are proud of the close-knit vibe, where block parties, yard sales, and friendly chats over fences are the norm. There’s a genuine mix of longtime homeowners and newcomers, creating a vibrant sense of belonging and inclusion.
Ashland is also proud of its diversity—families, singles, retirees, and young professionals all find their groove here. Annual events at the Ashland Recreation Center or seasonal gatherings at local parks help foster community connection.
Types of Housing: Something for Everyone
Ashland’s housing stock is one of its strongest draws. You’ll see everything from lovingly maintained mid-century ranchers and split-levels to newer constructions and a smattering of townhomes. Main thoroughfares like Burnt Mill Road feature traditional single-family homes with mature trees and generous yards, while side streets such as Argyle Avenue and Kenilworth Avenue bring cozy, classic suburban living.
- Starter homes: Many buyers land in Ashland for their first house, appreciating manageable sizes, affordability, and strong resale value.
- Larger lots: Some properties offer the bigger backyards and privacy many seek, especially appealing for families and gardening buffs.
- Rental options: Apartments and duplexes exist in pockets, providing flexibility for those not ready to buy.
Ashland has a solid “lived-in” charm, with many houses updated lovingly over time but without the cookie-cutter feel. The pride of ownership is palpable, and homes often move quickly thanks to the neighborhood’s reputation.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
One of Ashland’s most brag-worthy features is its genuine walkability. The leafy, sidewalk-lined streets make it easy to walk or bike throughout the neighborhood, whether you’re running to the QuickChek on Burnt Mill Road, picking up takeout from local favorite Lamberti’s Cucina, or heading to the nearby Ashland PATCO Station for a quick commute.
Within a short stroll or drive, you’ll find:
- Shops along Evesham Road and Route 561
- Pharmacies, grocery stores, and local services
- Well-maintained sidewalks and crossings, ideal for strollers or bikes
The light rail access via Ashland PATCO Station is a life-saver for Philadelphians and everyone else who prizes an easy workday commute into the city.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families with children will be happy to find Ashland Elementary School at the neighborhood’s heart. Part of the esteemed Cherry Hill Public Schools system, it’s known for its strong academic performance, nurturing atmosphere, and engaged PTO. It’s common to see children walking or biking to school under the watchful eyes of friendly crossing guards. Middle and high schoolers attend Beck Middle School and Cherry Hill High School East—both highly regarded and just minutes away.
The abundance of playmates, safe sidewalks, and local parks (more on that in a minute) makes Ashland especially welcoming to families with young children. You’ll find everything from Girl Scouts meetings to Little League games within a short radius.
Parks and Green Spaces
Despite being a mature neighborhood, Ashland offers more than its fair share of greenery. The standout is Ashland Park, located just off Ashland Avenue, featuring:
- A modern playground with swings and climbing structures
- Picnic tables beneath shady trees
- Sports courts and fields for pickup soccer or basketball
Locals also enjoy easy access to the Cooper River Trail for longer nature walks, as well as nearby Downs Farm Swim Club—an epicenter of summer fun for kids and parents alike. Many homes have generous yards, encouraging neighborhood gardening clubs and block BBQs during warmer months.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Ashland has long maintained a reputation for being a safe, peaceful neighborhood. Block watch groups and active residents look out for one another, and minor occurrences rarely go unnoticed. Many streets have “Safe Street” signage and slow speed limits, making it easier for children to play outside and for joggers or cyclists to feel secure.
The Cherry Hill Police Department maintains a visible and responsive presence, and residents often communicate via neighborhood social media groups for alerts and events. Most locals will tell you they feel extremely comfortable leaving doors unlocked or letting kids ride bikes until sunset.
Location, Commute, and Proximity to Everything
Another of Ashland’s golden features is its unbeatable location. Sitting just off major arteries like Route 70, I-295, and Evesham Road, getting around is a breeze. The Ashland PATCO Station gives commuters seamless access to downtown Philadelphia in under 25 minutes, making the neighborhood a favorite for city workers and reverse commuters alike.
You’re also less than a 10-minute drive from:
- Downtown Haddonfield’s shops and cafes
- The Cherry Hill Mall and major shopping plazas
- Local employers like Virtua Hospital and Subaru of America HQ
Plus, day-to-day necessities—grocery stores, pharmacies, coffee shops, and fitness centers—are all within a quick drive or walk.
What Residents Love Most
Ask longtime Ashland locals what makes the neighborhood so special, and certain themes emerge:
- Friendly neighbors who look out for one another
- Great walking and biking routes, including the “Ashland Loop” favored by runners
- An unbeatable combination of suburban peace and transit access
- Excellent schools and plenty of green spaces for recreation
- Beautiful trees and yard pride everywhere you look
Newcomers often remark on how quickly Ashland feels like home, from the welcome you receive when moving in, to the way neighbors drop by with baked goods or local tips.
Final Thoughts: Should You Move to Ashland?
Ashland offers the rare blend of affordability, friendliness, and convenience that can be hard to find in today’s crowded suburban markets. Whether you’re starting a family, want a peaceful retreat with quick city access, or are simply seeking a genuinely warm and lively community, Ashland in Cherry Hill, NJ deserves space at the top of your list.
For anyone considering putting down roots here, the everyday happiness of Ashland’s residents—and the pride they take in their little corner of Cherry Hill—speak volumes.