The Suburban Jungle team weighs in on the suburbs we call our “hometowns” — and why they have our hearts.
Pamela Goldman, Head San Francisco Strategist
Hometown: Tiburon, CA
It’s true — Tiburon is much sunnier than the city! But that’s only one reason we calling this our hometown. Tiburon is super close to San Francisco, with a small, high-ranking school district, stunning views, and a cute waterfront downtown. If you’re outdoorsy, you’ll love it here — we’ve got tons of places to bike and run along the water, plus access to some of the most incredibly beautiful hiking paths anywhere.
Robin Hoberman, New York Strategist
Hometown: Rye Brook, NY
What’s not to love about Rye Brook? We’ve got award-winning public schools, easy access to the city, great walkability, and incredible restaurants and activities, all with a small-town feel. The best part, though? The lifelong friends we’ve made since moving here!
Barbara Hirsch, Head Boston Strategist
Hometown: Wellesley, MA
There are so many reasons to love Wellesley. It’s close to Boston and Cambridge — about 30 minutes, max. But, really, why would you leave? There are amazing restaurants, shops, and local activities, and the area itself is very walkable. Not only are the schools well-rated, but they emphasize the social-emotional well-being of students, which is especially important right now.
And if you love to be outside? Wellesley offers easy access to parks and nature. I love the Brook Path that runs through town, Boulder Brook Reservation, Centennial Reservation, Morses Pond, and so much more. We also have our own Municipal Light Plant — WMLP — so we rarely lose power.
Bree Rotter, Head LA Strategist
Hometown: Pacific Palisades, CA
I love living in Pacific Palisades! The beaches, the hiking trails, the great restaurants and shops…it’s all here, in a big city that feels like a small town. And you can’t beat the weather!
Alli Levine, New York Strategist
Hometown: North Caldwell, NJ
When we moved out of the city, we wanted to find a small town with quiet suburban neighborhoods, but with access to all of the cosmopolitan amenities we enjoyed in Manhattan. North Caldwell offers us that perfect balance… space for our family, quiet streets to walk our dog and proximity to tons of local restaurants and shops. Caldwell town center is a five-minute drive and Montclair is 10 minutes away. There are many parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy year round. We love living here!
Melissa Schneider, Head South Florida Strategist
Hometown: Delray Beach, FL
Delray has the best downtown ever — great beaches, restaurants, shops, and surfing. The area is charming and sophisticated at the same time — so laid back when you want to be, but still chic. Even beyond the beach there’s lots to do — tennis, pickleball, golf, boating, and more. Plus, Delray is right next door to Boca Raton, which also has pristine beaches, beautiful parks, art museums, a walkable downtown plaza, and town center.
And don’t forget, Delray is also just 45 minutes from Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, and an hour to Miami. We love it here — sunshine rules as does the weather, especially in the winter!
Jodi Bloom, Head Philadelphia Strategist
Hometown: Wynnewood, PA
We love living in Wynnewood. It’s such a close-knit community with friendly people and tons of kids. Many of the neighborhoods are walkable to local shops, restaurants, and grocery stores, including Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s.
The town also has amazing playgrounds and parks, so there’s always something to do. And if you want to get out a bit? You’re close to Center City. But that’s just the beginning — you can be in New York City or the Poconos in about two hours, or the beach in about 90 minutes. So, really, you’re close to everything!
Olivia Howell, Director of Social Media
Hometown: Huntington, NY
I live in Huntington — on Long Island — and I LOVE IT. There’s always something going on, there are tons of places to eat, and it’s incredibly walkable — you can’t leave the house without running into people you know!
Stephanie Kelmar, San Francisco Strategist
Hometown: Palo Alto, CA
Besides the year-round weather and easy city access, Palo Alto has an incredibly engaged community — it’s a university town so there’s tons to do, renowned cultural events, all kinds of restaurants, and more. It’s also very walkable and bikeable — we’ve got tons of bike-friendly streets and paths, so it’s easy to get around, even without a car.
I also love, if you’ve got kids, that there are plenty of ways to keep them entertained. The children’s library is phenomenal as is the Junior Museum & Zoo and all-inclusive playground.
Want to find a town you love? We can help! Schedule your FREE Suburbs Strategy session now.