Pennsylvania Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Downingtown, Pennsylvania

Population: 8,200

Located in Chester County

Downingtown’s origins are of a small village located midway between Philadelphia and Lancaster. The village was first known as Milltown since it was the location of the last mills on the edge of the unsettled western frontier.

In 1761, John Downing opened a tavern on the east side of the Brandywine Creek. Around the time of the American Revolution, Milltown began being known as Downing’s Town. During the Revolution, the town was used as a location for storage of food supplies; a forage magazine was constructed in Downing’s Town to hold provisions for the troops. After the war of 1812, the village name of Downing’s Town was changed to Downingtown.

Downingtown’s rich history is readily apparent to the resident and visitor alike as they travel along East Lancaster Avenue where numerous historic structures line the street. The East Lancaster Avenue Historic District was placed on the national Register of Historic Places in 1979 and there are 20 historic structures within the district.

Downingtown has survived this long because it has a good mix of land uses and housing types. The town has very attractive natural and historical features. The town leaders plan to keep the industrial fringe to provide a strong employment base. They plan to preserve existing residential neighborhoods and emphasize the historic and natural resources.

Over 40% of those living in this community are renters, so potential residents should find a variety of housing options available. This lovely piece of the American country does come with a price though! Most homes here are considered upscale, and most homes start in the $200,000’s. That is not to say there are not homes priced lower than that, but for the most part, residents here have paid $200,000 and up for their homes, new or historic.

The spring and summer seasons are an ideal time here in Brandywine Valley. With all of our amazing gardens in bloom, it is a wonderful experience to stroll through and smell the roses! Make sure you visit Longwood Gardens, the Brandywine River Museum and Simon Pearce.

The Brandywine Valley, "Where Pennsylvania Began," is overflowing with treasure just waiting to be found. See why Downingtown has retained its hold on history and how it will be the place of the future!