Springdale, NJ
- About the City
- Climate and Weather
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Springdale is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in Cherry Hill Township, New Jersey, known for its suburban character and convenient access to Philadelphia.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Springdale is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located within Cherry Hill Township in Camden County, New Jersey, in the United States . It does not have its own municipal government and is governed as part of Cherry Hill Township. The area is situated in the heart of Camden County, which is part of the larger Delaware Valley metropolitan area centered on Philadelphia.
Historical Names and Nicknames
Unlike larger cities, Springdale does not have widely recognized historical names or nicknames. It is primarily known as a residential suburb of Philadelphia and a distinct community within the larger Cherry Hill Township.
Date of Foundation and Age
Springdale developed as a suburban community in the 20th century, particularly during the post-World War II housing boom. It is not an independently incorporated municipality with a formal founding date, but rather a defined area within Cherry Hill Township that has grown significantly since the 1950s and 1960s.
Geographic Position and Coordinates
Springdale is located at coordinates 39.8769° N, 74.9724° W . The community sits on relatively flat coastal plain terrain in southern New Jersey. According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 5.353 square miles (13.864 km²), with 5.349 square miles (13.853 km²) of land and 0.004 square miles (0.011 km²) of water . The elevation of the area is approximately 59 feet (18 meters) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Springdale is primarily a residential suburban community within the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Its economy is closely tied to that of Cherry Hill Township and the broader region. While not a major employment center itself, residents benefit from nearby commercial and business districts. The area features shopping centers, office parks, and services that cater to the local population.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Springdale was 14,811 . This reflects steady growth from 14,409 in 2000 and 14,518 in 2010 . The population density is approximately 2,768.93 per square mile (1,069.14/km²) . The racial makeup of the CDP is diverse, with the 2010 Census reporting 82.80% White, 11.45% Asian, 3.51% Black or African American, and 2.32% Hispanic or Latino of any race .
City's "Calling Card" (Briefly)
Springdale offers a quintessential suburban New Jersey lifestyle with convenient access to major metropolitan areas. It is known for its excellent schools, well-maintained neighborhoods, and strategic location near major highways and public transportation, providing residents with a peaceful residential environment within easy reach of Philadelphia and other regional employment centers .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Springdale has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) under the Köppen climate classification, typical of the mid-Atlantic region of the United States . The area experiences four distinct seasons: summers are warm, humid, and wet; winters are very cold, snowy, and windy; and spring and autumn are generally mild with pleasant temperatures .
Average Monthly Temperatures
The table below shows average temperature ranges throughout the year in Springdale :
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 41°F (5°C) | 26°F (-3°C) |
| February | 44°F (7°C) | 28°F (-2°C) |
| March | 53°F (12°C) | 35°F (2°C) |
| April | 64°F (18°C) | 44°F (7°C) |
| May | 73°F (23°C) | 54°F (12°C) |
| June | 82°F (28°C) | 63°F (17°C) |
| July | 86°F (30°C) | 68°F (20°C) |
| August | 84°F (29°C) | 66°F (19°C) |
| September | 77°F (25°C) | 59°F (15°C) |
| October | 66°F (19°C) | 48°F (9°C) |
| November | 55°F (13°C) | 39°F (4°C) |
| December | 45°F (7°C) | 31°F (-1°C) |
The hottest month is July, with average daily highs around 87°F (31°C) and lows of 68°F (20°C) . The coldest month is January, with average daily lows around 23°F (-5°C) and highs of 41°F (5°C) . Record high temperatures can reach up to 99°F (37°C), and record lows can drop to 2°F (-17°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
Springdale receives significant precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of 46-47 inches (about 1200 mm) . Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed, though the wettest months are typically May through October. July is often the wettest month . The area experiences about 118 rainy days per year (days with at least 0.01 inches of precipitation) .
Average annual snowfall is approximately 12-13 inches (about 33 cm), which is below the US average . February is typically the snowiest month . Summer months can feel humid, with July being the most humid period, while humidity is generally low for the rest of the year .
Sunny Days and UV Index
Springdale enjoys an average of 205 sunny days per year, which matches the US average . The sunniest months are June, July, and August, with an average of over 10 hours of sunshine per day . The UV index reaches its maximum levels (Very High, index 10) during May, June, and July .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Mild and pleasant temperatures with increasing sunshine. Highs range from the low 50s°F (March) to the low 70s°F (May). This is a comfortable time for outdoor activities.
- Summer (June-August): Warm to hot, humid, and wet. Highs are consistently in the 80s°F, often reaching into the low 90s°F. Thunderstorms are common. This is a good time for enjoying local parks and pools .
- Autumn (September-November): Mild with cooling temperatures. September is often very pleasant, with highs in the high 70s°F. Foliage peaks in October, making it a beautiful time for scenic drives.
- Winter (December-February): Cold with chilly winds and occasional snow. Highs range from the low 40s°F to mid-40s°F. Indoor activities are more popular during this time .
The best times to visit Springdale for warm-weather activities are from early June to early July and from early August to late September . The months of September, June, and May are considered the most pleasant .
Transport
Major Airports in the City and Region
Springdale does not have its own commercial airport, but it is conveniently located near several major airports serving the Philadelphia and southern New Jersey region:
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the closest major international airport, located approximately 25-30 miles southwest of Springdale, accessible via I-295 and I-76. It is a major hub with flights to destinations worldwide.
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey is another major international option, located about 60-70 miles northeast of Springdale, accessible via the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95). Some residents may prefer it for certain international or domestic routes .
- Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is located about 55 miles southeast, offering flights on several low-cost carriers.
Major Railway Stations and Lines
While there is no train station within Springdale itself, regional rail services are accessible in nearby towns:
- The Cherry Hill Station on the NJ Transit Atlantic City Line is located a short distance away. It provides service to Philadelphia's 30th Street Station and Atlantic City, offering a convenient commute for residents.
- The PATCO Speedline, a rapid transit system connecting Philadelphia and southern New Jersey, has stations in nearby communities like Woodcrest (in Cherry Hill), providing fast service to Center City Philadelphia.
Public Transportation System (Bus)
Public transportation in Springdale is primarily provided by NJ Transit bus service, which runs through the area and connects to neighboring towns and cities . Bus routes provide access to Philadelphia and other regional destinations. Approximately 7.9% of Springdale residents use public transportation for their commute to work . The average one-way commute time for residents is 30.7 minutes, slightly longer than the US average .
Major Highways and Roads
Springdale's location offers excellent access to several major highways:
- Interstate 295 (I-295) is a major north-south highway that passes through Cherry Hill, providing direct connections to the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), the Delaware Memorial Bridge, and points north and south.
- New Jersey Route 70 (NJ 70) is a major state highway that runs through the area, providing access to Philadelphia via the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge and to the Jersey Shore.
- New Jersey Route 41 (NJ 41) also serves the area, connecting to nearby communities and highways.
- The New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) is accessible via I-295, providing a high-speed route to New York City, Newark, and Washington D.C.
The majority of Springdale residents (76.7%) drive alone to work, while another 4.4% carpool .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Springdale Farms: A Local Agricultural Landmark
While Springdale itself is a small, unincorporated area, its identity is intertwined with the rich agricultural history of the region. The most significant culinary landmark is Springdale Farms, located in nearby Cherry Hill, NJ . This is not just a farm but a living piece of history, established in 1949 and operating as the last working farm in the township .
- Farm Market and Bakery: The farm features a market that attracts hundreds of visitors weekly. They are renowned for their freshly baked pies, cakes, muffins, and other pastries, all made on the premises . This is a key destination for anyone seeking authentic, locally-made baked goods.
- Farm-to-Fork Connection: Springdale Farms is a principal supplier in the South Jersey Independent Restaurant Association's "Farm to Fork" program, meaning its fresh produce is used by local chefs, making it a cornerstone of the regional culinary scene .
- Seasonal Attractions and "Pick-Your-Own": The farm offers quintessential seasonal experiences. In the late summer and fall, it becomes a destination for pumpkins. Its biggest promotion, however, is "Pick-your-own" strawberries, a beloved local tradition that marks the beginning of summer for many families .
For a true taste of Springdale's local heritage, visiting Springdale Farms to enjoy its fresh-baked goods and seasonal produce is a must.
Museums
Nearby Museums and Cultural Institutions
Springdale, NJ, is a small community, and there are no major museums located directly within its boundaries. However, the surrounding area of Camden County and nearby Philadelphia offers a wealth of world-class museums. Travelers staying in Springdale can easily access these cultural institutions.
- Adventure Aquarium (Camden, NJ): Just a short drive away on the Camden Waterfront, this is one of the premier aquariums in the nation. It is famous for its massive collection of sharks, including rare hammerheads, and its immersive exhibits like the shark tunnel and Hippo Haven.
- Battleship New Jersey (Camden, NJ): Moored on the Delaware River, this is the most decorated battleship in U.S. history. Visitors can tour the massive ship, explore the crew's quarters, and learn about its service from World War II to modern times.
- Philadelphia Museum of Art (Philadelphia, PA): Across the river in Philadelphia, this is one of the largest and most important art museums in the country. Its vast collection includes masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, and Thomas Eakins. The museum is also famous for its iconic "Rocky Steps."
- The Barnes Foundation (Philadelphia, PA): Located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, this institution holds one of the world's most extraordinary collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modern paintings. It features an unparalleled number of works by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, and Henri Matisse.
- Mütter Museum (Philadelphia, PA): For those with an interest in medical history, this is a unique and fascinating museum. It houses a collection of medical oddities, anatomical specimens, and antique medical equipment, including the famous plaster cast of the conjoined twins Chang and Eng Bunker and Albert Einstein's brain.
Sport and Sports Legends
Professional Sports in the Nearby Philadelphia Market
Springdale is located in the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area, giving residents and visitors access to a full slate of major professional sports teams. While no major venues are within Springdale itself, the city of Philadelphia, just across the river, is home to these legendary franchises.
- Philadelphia Phillies (MLB - Baseball): The city's beloved baseball team, playing at Citizens Bank Park. They are the 2008 World Series champions and have a rich history with legends like Mike Schmidt, Steve Carlton, and Ryan Howard.
- Philadelphia Eagles (NFL - Football): One of the most passionate fanbases in the NFL, the Eagles play at Lincoln Financial Field. They have won multiple NFL championships, including their first Super Bowl title in 2018. Icons include Chuck Bednarik, Reggie White, and Brian Dawkins.
- Philadelphia 76ers (NBA - Basketball): The "Sixers" are a historic NBA franchise playing at the Wells Fargo Center. Legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving (Dr. J), Allen Iverson, and Moses Malone have all worn the uniform.
- Philadelphia Flyers (NHL - Hockey): Also at the Wells Fargo Center, the Flyers are a historic "Original 16" expansion team known for their physical style of play in the 1970s, earning them the nickname "The Broad Street Bullies." They have won two Stanley Cup championships.
- Philadelphia Union (MLS - Soccer): Playing at Subaru Park in nearby Chester, PA, the Union has become a competitive force in Major League Soccer, developing young talent through their renowned academy system.
College Sports and Historic Venues
The region is also a hotbed for college sports, with two of the most iconic venues in American sports.
- University of Pennsylvania (Penn Quakers): An Ivy League school in Philadelphia. Its home, Franklin Field, is the oldest stadium in college football and was the first to feature a second tier. It also hosts the prestigious Penn Relays, the oldest and largest track and field competition in the United States.
- Temple University (Temple Owls): Another Philadelphia-based university with a strong athletic program. Their football team plays at the historic Lincoln Financial Field, and their basketball team plays at the Liacouras Center.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Major Research Universities Nearby
Springdale is ideally situated for access to some of the nation's top universities. The immediate area and the broader Philadelphia region are home to several world-renowned institutions of higher learning.
- Rutgers University-Camden (Camden, NJ): Located just a few miles from Springdale, Rutgers-Camden is a public research university and a key campus of Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. It is known for its strong programs in law, business, and the arts and sciences, and its faculty includes distinguished scholars across many fields.
- University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA): An Ivy League powerhouse, Penn is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740, it is renowned for its Perelman School of Medicine, Wharton School of business, and School of Law. It has produced numerous world leaders, including Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Warren Buffett, as well as countless Nobel laureates.
- Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA): Famous for its cooperative education (co-op) program, Drexel provides students with up to 18 months of full-time, professional work experience before graduation. It is particularly strong in engineering, technology, and business.
- Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia, PA): A world-class university focused on health sciences and education. It is formed from the merger of Philadelphia University and Thomas Jefferson University and is a leader in medical research and education, with a renowned hospital system.
- Temple University (Philadelphia, PA): A comprehensive public research university and one of Pennsylvania's largest. It is known for its professional programs, including the Temple University Beasley School of Law, the Boyer College of Music and Dance, and the Tyler School of Art and Architecture.
Specialized and Historic Institutions
Beyond the large research universities, the area is home to specialized schools of global renown.
- The Curtis Institute of Music (Philadelphia, PA): One of the most prestigious conservatories in the world, it is known for its extremely selective admissions and tuition-free policy. Its alumni include legends like Leonard Bernstein, Samuel Barber, and Nina Simone.
- Swarthmore College (Swarthmore, PA): Just a short drive from Springdale, Swarthmore is a highly selective liberal arts college and a member of the Tri-College Consortium (with Bryn Mawr and Haverford). It is celebrated for its rigorous academics, beautiful arboretum campus, and commitment to social responsibility.
Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Leading Medical Centers in the Region
As a suburban community, Springdale relies on the extensive and highly-regarded healthcare infrastructure of the surrounding area. Several world-class medical centers are within easy reach.
- Jefferson Health - Cherry Hill Hospital (Cherry Hill, NJ): Located in neighboring Cherry Hill, this hospital is part of the renowned Jefferson Health system, which is integrated with Thomas Jefferson University. It provides comprehensive medical and surgical services and serves as a major healthcare hub for the community.
- Cooper University Health Care (Camden, NJ): Cooper is a major academic health system and the clinical campus of Cooper Medical School of Rowan University. It is a level 1 trauma center and is known for its excellence in cardiology, cancer care, and surgery. It is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the region .
- Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital (Camden, NJ): A long-standing institution in Camden, this hospital is part of the Virtua Health system and offers a wide range of services, including a comprehensive cardiac program and behavioral health services.
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) (Philadelphia, PA): Just across the river, CHOP is consistently ranked as one of the top children's hospitals in the United States and the world. It is a leader in pediatric research, cancer treatment, cardiology, and virtually every pediatric subspecialty.
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) (Philadelphia, PA): HUP is a world-renowned academic medical center and the flagship hospital of the University of Pennsylvania Health System. It is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and is a global leader in medical research and complex patient care.