Top Neighborhoods to Consider When Buying a Home in Lehigh Valley

This article originally appeared on pmumalins.org

 

Lehigh Valley, an area in eastern Pennsylvania, consists of the cities of Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton as well as many incorporated and unincorporated suburbs surrounding them, which allows for a diverse mix of neighborhoods.

The attractive combination of city, suburbs and countryside makes it an appealing place to live for families, young professionals and seniors alike. For those who may be considering purchasing real estate in Lehigh Valley PA, this guide presents some of the best neighborhoods to help you make your house-hunting a little easier.

Bethlehem: The Center of History and Culture

Bethlehem, also called ‘Christmas City’, is well recognized for its culture and long history. The region is made up of North and South Bethlehem and offer both urban and suburban sectors.

North Bethlehem

Located in this area is the Moravian District, which is a historical walking neighborhood ideal for people who love colonial structures and modern city centers that have a community feeling.

 

It is well known for old structures and houses from the 18th century. It is also close to the center of the city, making it possible to enjoy different shops, restaurants and historical attractions, including the Moravian Museum and Colonial Industrial Quarter.

South Bethlehem

Its population comprises a plethora of artists and is the site for Lehigh University. The old industrial center has witnessed a massive renewal spurred by the SteelStacks, an arts and culture center, many art studios and cool dining options. This area seems to attract working class professionals and anyone who wants to enjoy urban living.

 

Easton: Vibrant and Walkable

Comparatively, Easton is the smallest of the Lehigh Valley cities. Easton boasts of great walking conditions, attractive views of the Delaware River and active arts. The city has a sought after downtown area which attracts many buyers who want to enjoy urban living with a sense of community.

It is known for the Easton Farmers’ Market, which is one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the United States, and for the Crayola Experience, which is a children’s attraction.

College Hill

In College Hill, a rich history with lovely buildings and sprawling gardens attracts all who like historic luxury. This area does boast the legacies of Victorian /Colonial Revival and the like that would appeal to those who appreciate that era.

Downtown Easton

Recently, this area of real estate in Lehigh Valley PA was brought back to life, endowed with many new eateries, shopping places and other activities. It is best suited for people who want a vibrant, active, sprawling area that they can walk. The region consists of a combination of colonial town houses and contemporary apartments for all income levels.

Easton is famous for community festivals like the annual Easton Garlic Festival and Riverside Arts Festival. Property prices are reasonable if one compares them to other regions of the Valley, making this place especially attractive for young families.

Allentown: Urban Amenities and Revitalized Areas

Allentown is one of the cities in Lehigh Valley which has seen changes and progress in recent years. With the PPL center, alongside several downtown gentrification projects, entertainment, restaurants and business activities have established themselves in Allentown. This beautifully built city has several residential areas.

West End Theatre District

This zone is relatively walkable and boasts a wide variety of cultural entertainment. It is located near the Allentown Art Museum, the Civic Theatre of Allentown, and several parks. Houses in this region are mostly built of brick and are vintage, as most of them were erected in the early twentieth century.

Old Allentown Historic District

Old Allentown is another area which is located near the city center, except that it has been charted as the historic district of Old Allentown due to the beautifully renovated Victorian style of the houses. Consequently, such properties are ideal for buyers who seek out properties with a lot of character but within a friendly and welcoming environment.

East Side Allentown

This region of the city is more of a suburb with reasonably priced single family houses and townhouses. Due to the availability of good schools and parks, it is favored by those who have children.

Lower Macungie Township: Suburban Family Living

Lower Macungie Township is one of the most rapidly expanding regions in Lehigh Valley, possessing suburban amenities such as good schools and easy links to interstates I-78 and Route 222. Families are drawn here because of the safe neighborhoods, parks, and the community feel.

East Texas

East Texas is a small section of Lower Macungie that is made up of homes on single family lots which are larger than usual, making it suitable for families who desire room for growth. It is a calm neighborhood with easy access to numerous shops and eating places.

Ancient Oaks

An older neighborhood with a relaxed atmosphere, Ancient Oaks consists of wide lanes and neat houses surrounded by trees. This region has a warm nature and a sense of togetherness. Homes found here were mostly constructed between the late seventies and early eighties, so buyers looking at real estate in Lehigh Valley PA can enjoy reasonably generous floor plans at very low prices.

Lower Macungie is ideal for commuters in that it is close to a number of employment centers, while at the same time preserving a suburban environment.

Macungie: Small and Attractive

Macungie, situated next to Lower Macungie Township, offers the best of both worlds – a small community and the advantage of being close to the major cities.

Brookside Country Club Area

Buyers looking for reasonably priced housing with attractive amenities should consider looking at the Settlements near Brookside Country Club. The locality has various housing options such as townhouses and single family residences.

Downtown Macungie

The historical housing structures and the design of Downtown Macungie make it very attractive to potential residents. The Center of the borough is formed by parks, and the community center offers several events for residents.

Real Estate in Lehigh Valley PA Has Something for Everyone

Lehigh Valley has diverse neighborhoods perfect for any home buyer, be it one seeking for something full of history, a lively business district, or suburbs. The prices, the standards of living, and the increase in development opportunities still makes Lehigh Valley one of the most appealing places to purchase a home in Pennsylvania.