Lower Merion experiences ongoing growth due to pandemic-driven migration to suburban areas.

Lower Merion Township, a suburban community located just outside Philadelphia, is experiencing a gradual increase in its population, as evidenced by recent estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. Between July 2023 and July 2024, the township welcomed an additional 455 residents, resulting in a population of 64,702. This latest figure marks a 0.71% growth, contributing to an overall increase of approximately 1,074 residents since 2020 and 6,718 since 2010. This pattern of growth signifies a positive change for Lower Merion, especially following decades of stagnation.

The township’s population increase has been particularly pronounced in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted a notable demographic shift as residents relocated from urban centers to suburban areas. Kevin Gillen, a senior research fellow at Drexel University’s Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation, has noted that Lower Merion has benefitted from this trend. The migration away from urban locations has created an increase in demand for suburban living, particularly as individuals seek larger residential spaces and enhanced educational opportunities no longer tethered to daily office commitments.

Lower Merion has become a preferred destination for both residents and newcomers alike, influenced by its attractive features such as ample green spaces, low crime rates, and high-quality school systems. However, this surge in demand has unfortunately led to a decline in housing affordability within the township. Currently, the median sales price for a home in Lower Merion is approximately 3,500, significantly higher than the median price of 7,000 across Montgomery County. This disparity poses challenges for potential residents, particularly younger individuals looking to establish themselves in the increasingly competitive real estate market.

The demographic trends in Lower Merion align with broader patterns across suburban Philadelphia. Since April 2020, the Pennsylvania suburbs of Philadelphia have collectively gained a total of 60,632 residents, while South Jersey has seen an influx of 33,656 individuals. Historically, Lower Merion has been a desirable location, attracting affluent residents since the early 20th century, driven by suburban expansion after World War I. The township’s population witnessed substantial growth, with nearly 40,000 new residents between 1920 and 1970, largely due to the construction of highways and increased commuter travel.

Despite experiencing a population plateau in the late 20th century, Lower Merion has returned to a phase of steady growth in recent years. In 2019, the township surpassed Bensalem in population size, positioning itself as the second-largest municipality in the Pennsylvania suburbs, trailing only Upper Darby. As Lower Merion continues to evolve, it remains a focal point of suburban development, attracting diverse residents seeking a blend of urban accessibility and suburban tranquility.

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