Welcome to Montgomery County, Pennsylvania: a truly unique historic destination with a vibrant cultural pulse for your retirement years.
Affectionately nicknamed “Montco” by local residents, Montgomery County is a vibrant suburban area just west of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The county is known for its ties to the Revolutionary War, lush walking trails, and a renowned arts and culture scene.
If you’re considering moving to Pennsylvania, or you already live here and want to relocate to another area of the Commonwealth, Montgomery County offers a perfect balance of suburban charm and city convenience.
Here at Frederick Living, we’ve had roots in the region for over a century with a deep passion for the local community. That’s why we’ve created this guide to introduce you to the benefits of retiring in Montgomery County, PA.
Whether you are seeking profound American history, natural tranquility, or a vibrant arts revival, this extraordinary destination nestled in the heart of the Keystone State invites you to explore.
Montgomery County, PA at a Glance
People: Diverse population of 850,000 with families, young professionals, and retirees drawn to suburbs and quiet towns
Location: 487 square miles in southeastern PA with a mix of urban areas, scenic suburbs, and green spaces
Proximity: Just 18 miles from Philadelphia and a two-hour drive to New York City, offering easy access to major metropolitan hubs.
Established: 1784, featuring deep, historical ties to the American Revolution
Attractions: Home to the world-class King of Prussia Mall, Valley Forge National Historical Park, the Schuylkill River Trail, more than 30 award-winning craft breweries, and over 200 arts and cultural venues
The Benefits of Retiring in Montgomery County, PA
Retirement is the season of life where you gain more freedom than ever before. Montgomery County, PA is a convenient and dynamic destination to spend days celebrating your community, hobbies, and family.
Quality of Life
As a top Pennsylvania destination, Montco provides a unique blend of amenities and services:
Cost of Living: While the cost of living reflects the area’s incredible amenities, putting down roots here is a fantastic investment with local home values outpacing the state average and appreciating by over 35% in the last five years.
Healthcare Facilities and Services: Jefferson Abington Hospital and Einstein Medical Center are two prominent providers for residents to access quality care with specialized clinics and wellness centers for diverse health needs.
Community events and Traditions: The Montco community spirit is strong, with annual events such as the Narberth Dickens Festival and Ambler Arts & Music Festival drawing residents together throughout the year.
Star Attractions
Explore many of the top world-class shopping, dining, and historic experiences the Keystone State has to offer:
Valley Forge National Historical Park: Step into the pages of history and explore 3,500 acres of trails and monuments where George Washington’s Continental Army survived the harsh winter of 1777 to 1778.
Elmwood Park Zoo: Still beloved after a century of operation, the Elmwood Park Zoo is home to over 300 animals as well as thrilling rides, interactive exhibits, and seasonal events.
King of Prussia Town Center Farmers Market: Perfectly situated within a lively dining and retail hub, this seasonal open-air market is a favorite gathering spot for hidden gems like locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and homemade treats.
King of Prussia Mall: King of Prussia is mall royalty as the largest mall on the East Coast and one of the most expansive in the United States with a collection of over 400 stores and dining experiences.
Did You Know?
Founded in 1784, Montgomery County’s history is tied to the history of the Commonwealth and the nation. Modern historians still debate whether Montgomery County is named in honor of Richard Montgomery, a Revolutionary War general killed in 1775, or the Welsh county of Montgomeryshire.
Outdoor Activities and Golf in Montgomery County
Take in the fresh air and enjoy the vibrant nature scene around MontCo with outdoor activities:
Historic Yellow Springs: Explore over 300 years of American heritage at this 142-acre living village on the site of a former Revolutionary War hospital for George Washington’s troops.
Lower Perkiomen Valley Park: Spanning 107 acres of picturesque waterfront, this iconic gateway to the Perkiomen and Schuylkill River Trails offers scenic picnic grounds and outstanding fishing spots.
Norristown Farm Park: Discover a blend of history and nature at this massive 3,100-acre park, featuring an active working farm, 18th-century buildings, and miles of multi-use trails.
Golf Courses: Practice your game at one of over 20 public golf courses in Montgomery County, ranging from an indulgent country club experience at Raven’s Claw Golf Club to a tee time reservation at Macoby Run Golf Course.
Transportation and Accessibility
The county’s transportation system is designed for convenience and accessibility:
Public Transportation: SEPTA trains and buses connect residents to Philadelphia and surrounding areas. The Norristown High Speed Line and regional rail lines offer a seamless, traffic-free alternative for commuting or exploring.
Major Highways: With direct access to major arteries like I-76, I-476, and Route 422, navigating by car is highly convenient for both daily commutes and weekend road trips.
Accessibility to Nearby Cities: One of the perks of living in Montgomery County is the easy access to major metropolitan areas. Philadelphia is just a short drive or train ride away, and residents are also within easy reach of Trenton, New York City, and beyond.
Pros and Cons of Living in Montgomery County, PA
Like any hometown, Montco has unique advantages and disadvantages to weigh before your move:
Pros
Strong community ties
World-class healthcare access
Easy access to metro hubs
Appreciating property values
Cons
Higher cost of living
Bustling suburban pace
Northeastern winter weather
While Montco’s bustling pace and cost of living reflects its popularity, retirees have a unique option: moving to an all-inclusive community like Frederick Living.
Experience the Beauty of Montgomery County at Frederick Living
Frederick Living is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) nestled in the heart of Montgomery County.
Our all-inclusive campus provides financial peace with protection from unpredictable property taxes and eliminates the hassle of winter home maintenance, allowing you to simply enjoy the many amenities we have to offer. The Frederick Living campus includes everything from dining to micro-communities for hobbies, wellness centers, spiritual care, and so much more.
Whether you’re 55+ and ready for retirement or need healthcare services ranging from personal care to advanced memory care, we have an option for all of life’s seasons.
The best way to experience Montgomery County, PA, is to visit. Ready to start your adventure? Reach out to a friendly member of our team today to schedule a tour of Frederick Living and explore Montco for yourself.
