Today, it's considered a typical suburban residential community, where people settle to live and raise their children. According to local historians, the township itself is an architectural museum containing examples from the many periods of its long history. Communities within the township include Cedarbrook, Melrose Park, La Mott, Wyncote, Cheltenham Village, and Elkins Park. The entire township is serviced by public water and sewer facilities. A large full-time police force serves the township.
Fire protection is provided by volunteer companies.
Residential trash disposal is provided by the township. A full-time recreation director is employed by the township. Facilities include a public pool, a large number of neighborhood parks, playgrounds, bird sanctuaries, arboretums, tennis courts, and a variety of public buildings. Little League programs are run by private organizations. Many neighborhood and specialty shopping centers are easily accessible to residents.