It may be that we get transferred up North for a while.

So I was thinking about being close to the rail links, etc. that are around Philly.

I would like to be in a small town or city, but not a sprawling suburb.  I've worked in King of Prussia, but it isn't very small towny, is it?

So, any suggestions for me to check out?

How are the gun laws and taxes?

Will I need to wear socks again?  

Gun laws are fine here. Just be aware that semi auto rifles are a no go for hunting.
Socks would probably help in the winter. What part of the state will you be working in?
Once we know more someone can help you with tax info.

Thanks!

I grew up in a state that has Winter, so I can probably find some socks.

I would need to get to DC and NYC so I'm thinking Philly.

Look around Malvern, Exton, or Frazer...there's a train stop in both Exton and Malvern, Frazer is right in between both.  All three are smaller than KOP.  I like West Chester as well, but there's no train station there.  It's only maybe 10 minutes from the station in Exton.
ETA:  Exton, Malvern, and Frazer will you put about 15-20 minutes from Philly by car, no idea how long by train.  West Chester isn't much further.
ETA2: Chester County, where all 4 cities I mentioned are located, is very expensive, I believe the most expensive county in the state.

Thanks - is there a main street with shops and restaurants etc. in those towns or is it more strip mall/suburbs?

Bucks Co. has  small towns, train to NY & DC, and local trains to Phila. Yardley, Newtown, Doylestowm (county seat for gun permit ) are all small towns with Main Street shops, restaurants, some night life. There's a casino in Bensalem, close to  Atlantic City  2hrs. For fun nights.  I don't know your housing price but  Bucks County prices are moderate/high. Schools are good taxes are high in some areas.  I renewed my permit today in Doylestown,  and took all of 15 minutes. One form to fill out , drivers license, two references .  Good luck on your search and welcome to Pa.       Bill

What about West Chester?  I'll check those other ones too, thanks!

Frazer  and Exton have strip malls and the suck.  Malvern is fairly small town, small little strip mall, some shops on main street,  one hole in the wall bar that I know of.  West Chester is probably what you're looking for...be aware, it is a college town.  It's a bit larger than the others, but a lot more going on downtown

Check out Chester, Montgomery, and Delaware Counties. Wayne, Radnor, and Devon have excellent access to the SEPTA rail system. Anything along "the Main Line" should have quick access to the SEPTA rail system as well. Prepare yourself for high property costs.

Media has a Main Street (State Street) with shops, Iron Hill brewery, and both train and trolley access to CC Philly.

OP how old are you?  Where will you be working?  

Some of the other towns mentioned do have Main Street type places but they are a bit tougher to get to the city.  If you are under 40 I'd suggest at least taking a look at Main Street in Manayunk.  It has the Main Street Restaurant/bars/shops you are looking for, but is small and homey compared to the big city, and is technically in Philadelphia. Drive 5 minutes west and you are in suburbs, 5 minutes east and you are in the city.  

The only caveat is it can be a bit young at times.  A lot of St. Joes University kids come out here for the night life.  Might not be up your alley at all, but it meets a lot of what you are looking for so worth having a look.  I really like it here FWIW.  Feel free to ask any more questions about it, I'd be happy to help answer them if I can.

Given this, I'd recommend a look at Bucks County, just south of Nockamixon. Its a nice area, Nockamixon State Park is great, Doylestown has that small town feel, and from there, you can catch 476 south to Philly or DC, or 476 north to 78 which will take you right to the Holland or Lincoln Tunnel.  If you need to travel at high traffic times, another alternative to get to either DC, Philly, or NYC  is get to the Amtrak/SEPTA/NJ Transit hub right across the border in Trenton and take the train.  Get work done while you ride or catch some sleep. I think there's even a  SEPTA train that runs from Doylestown to Philly.  

Yes there is, I also belive chalfont has one as well.