Swarthmore is a Delaware County borough centered around a compact town center and the campus of Swarthmore College. Established residential streets contain a broad range of architectural styles, while local shops, restaurants, community spaces, and the college campus create a recognizable borough center.

Swarthmore College’s landscaped campus and Scott Arboretum are among the community’s defining destinations. SEPTA Regional Rail provides direct service toward Philadelphia, while nearby Route 320 and I-476 connect the borough with surrounding Delaware County communities. Media, Springfield, and Wallingford are all nearby.