Philadelphia & Southeastern Pennsylvania
Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania
Community (census-designated place) in Lower Merion Township
A Main Line college town
Bryn Mawr is an unincorporated community on Philadelphia's Main Line, split between Lower Merion Township in Montgomery County and Radnor Township in Delaware County. It is anchored by Bryn Mawr College and a compact Lancaster Avenue business district with a strong independent retail mix.
History & Local Character
The community developed after Bryn Mawr College was founded in 1885 and the railroad established a station. Its Welsh name means big hill, reflecting the topography of the Main Line ridge.
Housing & Real Estate
Housing includes large historic singles near the college, twins and rowhouses near Lancaster Avenue, and newer condominiums. Prices are among the region's highest.
Restaurants & Shopping
Lancaster Avenue offers cafes, bakeries and restaurants serving students, residents and commuters, with a notable brunch scene.
Schools & Education
Students attend Lower Merion or Radnor school district schools depending on which side of the county line their home falls.
Parks & Recreation
Bryn Mawr College's arboretum-like campus, Ashbridge Park in Radnor and the Cynwyd Heritage Trail provide green space.
Transportation & Accessibility
SEPTA's Paoli/Thorndale line stops at Bryn Mawr, and Lancaster Avenue connects to Philadelphia and Paoli.
Local Businesses
Independent bookshops, clothing stores, restaurants and professional offices line Lancaster Avenue, supported by college traffic.
No businesses are listed in Bryn Mawr yet. Add your business to be the first.
Nearby Attractions
- Bryn Mawr College
- Ashbridge Park
- Cynwyd Heritage Trail
- Haverford College
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Walkable college-town center
- Frequent rail service
- Highly rated school districts
- Strong independent retail
Considerations
- Very high home prices
- Split between two counties and townships
- Limited parking near Lancaster Avenue
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bryn Mawr a municipality?
No. Bryn Mawr is an unincorporated community and census-designated place that straddles Lower Merion Township in Montgomery County and Radnor Township in Delaware County.
What college is in Bryn Mawr?
Bryn Mawr College, a liberal arts college founded in 1885, is located in the community.