Python/PHP development practices

My current Python & PHP development setup is not ideal. I've mangled my Mac OS setup enough to the point that I have python, php, apache & databases running on a VMWare machine (Ubuntu server). It doesn't seem terrible, but I'm wondering how others have their machines setup.

On Ubuntu server, I use apt for all my package installation and only occasionally compile from source. I know there's a couple package managers out there for Mac OS X, but I haven't messed with them much. Do most folks compile from source on their Macs or use a package manager, if so which one and why?

I think I would like to have python installed locally, but could possibly live with php/apache/databases still running on a virtual machine when necessary. Any pro/cons one way or the other?

I'm going to be purchasing a MBP in the near future and want to make sure I set things up in the most ideal way based on others who have been there.

Thanks so much!

-C