Your Guide to Moving to Lancaster, PA

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Lancaster offers a unique and captivating living experience that will make you want to call it home. From its rich history to its thriving arts scene, stunning natural landscapes, and strong sense of community, this city has something for everyone.Lancaster’s rich history is evident throughout the city. As one of the oldest inland cities in the United States, it embraces its colonial heritage with beautifully preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks. The downtown area is a delightful mix of red-brick buildings, boutique shops, and inviting cafés, exuding a charming and welcoming atmosphere.The city’s vibrant arts and culture scene is another reason to fall in love with Lancaster. Theaters like the Fulton Theatre and the Ware Center showcase a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance shows. The city also hosts the annual Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival, drawing renowned artists from across the country.

Lancaster Area Communities

Chestnut Hill

Located just north of Downtown, Chestnut Hill is a charming residential neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and close-knit community. This area features a mix of architectural styles, from Victorian and Colonial Revival to Craftsman. Chestnut Hill Park is a popular gathering spot for residents and offers recreational amenities like playgrounds and tennis courts.

Manheim Township

Situated to the east of Downtown, Manheim Township is a suburban area that provides a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational opportunities. It features well-established neighborhoods with a range of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. Manheim Township is known for its excellent schools, shopping centers, and parks like Overlook Community Campus and Neffsville Community Park.

Lancaster City East

Located east of Downtown, Lancaster City East is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. It offers a blend of housing options, including historic homes, modern apartments, and townhouses. This neighborhood is home to the Clipper Magazine Stadium, where the Lancaster Barnstormers minor league baseball team plays, as well as the Lancaster Science Factory and Lancaster Cemetery.

Lampeter-Strasburg

Situated to the southwest of the city, Lampeter-Strasburg is a suburban community known for its peaceful countryside setting and strong school district. The area features a mix of rural charm and suburban convenience, with spacious homes, farmland, and open spaces. Residents can enjoy the natural beauty of the nearby Strasburg Rail Road, Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, and Rock Ford Plantation.

Top Lancaster School Districts

Finding the right school district for your children has a major impact on their quality of life and path to success. These are the top rated school districts in the Lancaster Area; if you want to delve deeper into school records and standards for the State of Pennsylvania, NewHomeSource has a guide to all the resources you need to find the right school for your child.

Best Private K-12 school in Lancaster: Lancaster Country Day School

Lancaster Country Day School has an A+ rating on Niche.com, and ranks highly for academics, teachers, college prep, and clubs and activities. It has 90 students in grades K-12. According to public data 100% of students of Lancaster Country Day School go on to attend a four year university.

Best public elementary school in Lancaster: Centerville Elementary School

Centerville Elementary School has an A rating on Niche.com, and ranks highly for academics, teachers, and diversity. It has 516 students in grades K-6 with a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1. According to state test scores, 53% of students are at least proficient in math and 71% in reading.

Best public high school in Lancaster: Manheim Township High School

Manheim Township High School has an A rating on Niche.com, and ranks highly for academics, teachers, and college prep. It has 1,864 students in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 19 to 1. According to state test scores, 81% of students are at least proficient in math and 83% in reading.

Top Employers in Lancaster

Healthcare and insurance are two of the largest employers in Lancaster.

Lancaster General Hospital

Lancaster General Hospital is the largest employer in Lancaster providing thousands of jobs in all aspects of the healthcare sector.

Giant Food Stores LLC

Giant Food Stores LLC has a major employment presence in Lancaster, with many grocery and pharmaceutical jobs available to residents.

County of Lancaster

The County of Lancaster is another major employer in Lancaster, PA, providing jobs to a wide range of government workers.

Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories Inc

Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories Inc provides many jobs in outsourced laboratory services, perfect for people who work in STEM fields.

Nordstrom Inc

Nordstrom Inc also has a major employment presence in Lancaster, providing residents with great shopping and great jobs.

Lancaster Area Museums

Lancaster Science Factory

Located in Downtown Lancaster, the Lancaster Science Factory is a hands-on science museum that focuses on interactive exhibits and STEM education. It offers a variety of engaging activities for visitors of all ages, with exhibits covering topics such as physics, engineering, electricity, and more.

North Museum of Nature and Science

Situated in Lancaster City, the North Museum of Nature and Science is dedicated to promoting the understanding and appreciation of the natural world. The museum features interactive displays, live animal exhibits, planetarium shows, and a collection of artifacts and specimens. It offers a blend of science, nature, and astronomy for visitors to explore.

Demuth Museum

The Demuth Museum, located in the former home and studio of renowned American artist Charles Demuth, showcases his artwork and celebrates his contributions to the art world. The museum features rotating exhibitions of Demuth’s paintings, as well as works by other contemporary artists. It provides a glimpse into the life and artistic legacy of one of Lancaster’s most influential figures.

LancasterHistory

LancasterHistory, formerly known as the Lancaster County Historical Society, preserves and shares the rich history of Lancaster and its surrounding area. The museum includes the Louise Arnold Tanger Arboretum, the President James Buchanan’s Wheatland historic site, and a research library. Visitors can explore exhibits on Lancaster’s history, including its colonial heritage, the Underground Railroad, and the industrial revolution.

The National Watch and Clock Museum

Located in nearby Columbia, just a short drive from Lancaster, The National Watch and Clock Museum is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history, science, and art of timekeeping. It houses a vast collection of timepieces from around the world, including pocket watches, wristwatches, and impressive tower clocks. The museum offers interactive displays, special exhibits, and educational programs for visitors.

Great Parks in the Lancaster Area

Long’s Park

Long’s Park is a picturesque 80-acre park located in Lancaster City. It features a large and tranquil lake, perfect for peaceful walks and picnics. The park also offers playgrounds, tennis courts, walking trails, and open fields for sports and outdoor activities. Throughout the year, Long’s Park hosts various events and festivals, including the Long’s Park Art Festival and summer concerts.

Buchanan Park

Situated in Lancaster City, Buchanan Park is a popular urban park with ample green space and recreational facilities. It offers walking paths, sports fields, basketball and tennis courts, a playground, and a splash pad for cooling off on hot summer days. The park is an ideal spot for picnics, playing sports, or enjoying a leisurely stroll.

Speedwell Forge Park

Located in nearby Lititz, Speedwell Forge Park is a serene nature park known for its scenic beauty and wildlife. It features a network of trails that wind through lush woodlands, wetlands, and along the picturesque Hammer Creek. The park is an excellent spot for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring nature’s wonders.

Living in Lancaster

However, what truly sets Lancaster apart is its strong sense of community. The city is known for its friendly residents, who are quick to offer a helping hand or strike up a conversation. The Amish and Mennonite communities add to the tapestry of Lancaster, showcasing a simpler way of life and inspiring a sense of appreciation for tradition and craftsmanship.Lancaster also hosts numerous community events and festivals that bring people together. Whether it’s the annual Lancaster County Carriage and Antique Auction, the Lancaster County Covered Bridge Festival, or the vibrant Lancaster Central Market, there is always something exciting happening in the city.

Lancaster Housing Trends

With a great blend of hip downtown neighborhoods and family-friendly suburbs, there are many housing options depending on the kind of lifestyle you are looking for.

Housing costs are rising over time, but there are still a variety of options depending on your price point, as there are many suburbs and cities surrounding Savannah.

Median Home Price: $320,000

The median home price in Savannah is lower than the national median home price, making it a wonderful place to settle down, if you’re a first time homebuyer, or an experienced home shopper looking for the perfect retirement destination.

Amazing Lancaster Restaurants

Lancaster, PA is known for its vibrant food scene, offering a diverse range of culinary delights.

Belvedere Inn

Located in Downtown Lancaster, the Belvedere Inn is a fine dining restaurant housed in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion. It offers an elegant atmosphere and serves a menu of contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is known for its exceptional service, creative cocktails, and live jazz music.

The Pressroom

Situated in the heart of Lancaster City, The Pressroom is a popular gastropub that combines a lively ambiance with a diverse menu. It features an extensive selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. The menu offers a fusion of American and international flavors, with dishes ranging from burgers and steaks to seafood and vegetarian options.

Luca

Luca is a charming Italian restaurant located in Lancaster City. It offers a cozy and intimate dining experience with a menu inspired by traditional Italian recipes. The restaurant focuses on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes like homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and delectable desserts. Luca also has an extensive wine list to complement your meal.

Himalayan Curry & Grill

If you’re craving authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine, Himalayan Curry & Grill is a must-visit. This family-owned restaurant in Lancaster City serves a variety of flavorful dishes, including curries, tandoori specialties, momos (dumplings), and vegetarian options. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere add to the dining experience.

Horse Inn

The Horse Inn is a historic and cozy gastropub located in Lancaster City. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, it offers a menu of elevated comfort food. From mouthwatering steaks and seafood to creative small plates and artisanal cocktails, the Horse Inn provides a memorable dining experience.

Great Attractions for Lancaster Stay-cations

Lancaster Brewing Company

For beer enthusiasts and casual diners, Lancaster Brewing Company is a popular choice. Located in Downtown Lancaster, this brewpub offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Along with an impressive selection of craft beers brewed on-site, the menu features classic pub fare with a creative twist, such as burgers, sandwiches, salads, and hearty entrees.

Amish Country

Explore the picturesque Amish countryside surrounding Lancaster. Take a guided tour or drive through the scenic backroads to experience the rural beauty, visit Amish farms and markets, and learn about their unique way of life.

Sight & Sound Theatres

Immerse yourself in a captivating theatrical experience at Sight & Sound Theatres. Known for their elaborate productions, these theaters bring Bible stories to life through stunning sets, live animals, and talented actors.

Wolf Sanctuary of PA

Take a tour of the Wolf Sanctuary of PA, located just outside Lancaster. Explore the grounds and learn about the importance of wolf conservation. Get up close to these majestic animals and hear their unique stories.

Dutch Wonderland

Perfect for families, Dutch Wonderland is a charming amusement park designed for young children. It offers a variety of rides, attractions, and live entertainment, including shows and character meet-and-greets.

Shopping

Lancaster has a great mix of unique local shops and big-name stores, often found side by side in shopping areas. There’s plenty of opportunity to shop ‘til you drop in this city.

Central Market

Visit the Lancaster Central Market, the oldest continuously operating farmers market in the United States. Browse the stalls filled with fresh produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, and local crafts. It’s a vibrant and bustling place to experience the local culture.

The Spice & Tea Exchange

Located in Downtown Lancaster, The Spice & Tea Exchange is a specialty store where you can find an extensive selection of spices, gourmet teas, flavored sugars, salts, and unique blends. It’s a paradise for food enthusiasts and those looking to add a dash of flavor to their culinary creations.

The Record Connection

For music enthusiasts, The Record Connection is a haven. This independent record store has been serving the community since 1985, offering a wide selection of vinyl records, CDs, and music memorabilia across various genres. Whether you’re a collector or a casual listener, you’re sure to find something that catches your interest.

Beadworks & Gem Den

If you’re interested in jewelry making or gemstones, Beadworks & Gem Den is a hidden gem. Located in the heart of Downtown Lancaster, this shop offers a vast assortment of beads, gemstones, findings, and jewelry-making supplies. It’s a fantastic place to unleash your creativity and find unique materials for your own creations.