Lancaster County is in the southeast part of Pennsylvania, against the Maryland state line. While the county is known for its large Amish community, Lancaster has ample urban and suburban living options. From lovingly refurbished Victorian homes in Lancaster City to new builds in great school districts, there is a diverse array of Lancaster homes to suit young professionals, families, and retirees.
In addition to its idyllic farmland, Lancaster receives national recognition for its diverse population, historic buildings, and thriving restaurant scene.
Cost of Living in Lancaster County
Lancaster’s median household income of over $63,000 is above the national average. With median home prices under $250,000, many professionals and families find Lancaster a comfortable place.
Quick and easy access to larger cities makes Lancaster an attractive option for maintaining professional opportunities at a lower cost of living. Lancaster is along the Amtrak Northeast Corridor, one of the busiest train routes in the world. This train service connects residents to Philadelphia in less than an hour and New York City in under three hours. Baltimore and Washington, D.C. are within easy driving distance, and three international airports serve Lancaster.
Great Schools in Lancaster County
Rather than one county-wide public school district, Lancaster’s school children attend smaller districts serving their hometowns. Lancaster offers multiple private day school options with both a religious and secular focus. The county is also home to Linden Hall, a private girls’ boarding school established in 1746.
Lancaster boasts a mix of public and private higher education institutions. The county is home to Millersville University, Franklin & Marshall College, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences, Lancaster Bible College, Harrisburg Area Community College and Elizabethtown College. Lancaster students are a short drive from Penn State satellite campuses in nearby York and Harrisburg.
Job Opportunities in Lancaster County
Despite its history as a farming community, the modern Lancaster County worker is likely to be found in management, office support, production, or healthcare jobs. As estimated by the U.S. Census Bureau, over 22% of Lancaster residents held a Bachelor’s degree or higher, and 65% were employed as of 2018. With an average commute of 21 minutes, many professionals find a great work-life balance in Lancaster.
Buying a Home in Lancaster County, PA
Kingsway Realty’s team of over 50 licensed Realtors® is dedicated to finding you the best home in Lancaster County. Whether you are a current Lancaster resident looking for a change or moving to our area, we offer complete realty services for buyers and sellers. Our listings include new and existing properties through Lancaster County, central Pennsylvania, and the Philadelphia and Baltimore-Washington metro areas. We welcome you to stop by and visit us at one of our two Lancaster County offices or contact us to schedule an appointment with our agents.
Resources:
https://gis.penndot.gov/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/Type5/36301.pdf
https://nec.amtrak.com/
https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-private-schools/c/lancaster-county-pa/
https://www.lindenhall.org/about-linden-hall
https://www.collegesimply.com/colleges-near/pennsylvania/lancaster/
https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/central-market