The Pros and Cons of Living in Bensalem, PA

Last Updated: August 23, 2026

Bensalem Township is the largest municipality in Bucks County by population, offering suburban living with close proximity to Philadelphia. Home to Parx Casino, Neshaminy State Park, and a thriving commercial corridor along Street Road, Bensalem provides residents with a unique mix of entertainment, recreation, and residential neighborhoods.

Pros of Living in Bensalem

• Location: Ideally situated along I-95, US Route 1, and the PA Turnpike, making commuting to Philadelphia, Princeton, and New York convenient.
• Diversity: The Bensalem Township School District is ranked the 2nd most diverse in Pennsylvania and 25th in the nation.
• Entertainment: Parx Casino is the largest gaming complex in Pennsylvania, featuring a hotel, restaurants, live racing, and live entertainment.
• Parks and Recreation: Over 30 parks and playgrounds including Neshaminy State Park (339 acres on the Delaware River), Bensalem Central Park, and Bensalem Community Park.
• Housing Affordability: Compared to other Bucks County communities like Newtown and Doylestown, Bensalem offers more affordable single-family homes, townhomes, and rentals.
• Historical Sites: Andalusia Historic House and Gardens, Saint Katharine Drexel Mission Center, and a rich colonial history dating back to 1692.

Cons of Living in Bensalem

• Car Dependency: Most errands require a car. Public transit options are minimal compared to Philadelphia or older suburbs.
• Traffic Congestion: Street Road and major arteries experience significant traffic during peak commute hours.
• Commercial Sprawl: The township has extensive commercial development along major corridors, which some residents find less charming than walkable small-town downtowns.
• Crime Rates: While generally safe, some areas of Bensalem experience higher property crime rates than smaller Bucks County boroughs.
• School District Reputation: While improving and diverse, the school district's academic ratings trail the highest-ranked districts in Montgomery and Chester Counties.

Common Questions About Bensalem

Is Bensalem PA a good place to live?

Yes, Bensalem is a solid choice for those seeking affordable, diverse suburban living near Philadelphia. It has appeared multiple times on Money Magazine's "100 Best Places to Live" list and offers strong entertainment and recreation options.

How far is Bensalem from Philadelphia?

Bensalem borders northeastern Philadelphia. The drive to Center City Philadelphia takes about 15 to 20 minutes via I-95, making it one of the most convenient Bucks County suburbs for commuting.

What is Bensalem known for?

Bensalem is best known for Parx Casino and Racing, the largest gaming complex in Pennsylvania. It is also known for Neshaminy State Park, the Andalusia Historic House, and its status as the most populous municipality in Bucks County.

What school district serves Bensalem?

The Bensalem Township School District serves the area with six elementary schools, two middle schools, and Bensalem High School, plus School Lane Charter School.