Pennsylvania Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Hempfield, Pennsylvania

Population: 40,721

Located in Westmoreland County

The recorded history of Hempfield Township originates in 1729 when the boundaries of Lancaster County were defined by surveyors upon the decree of the provincial government. Hempfield was one of the original townships of the county and included the present land areas of East Hempfield, West Hempfield and Manor Townships, and the Boroughs of Columbia, Mountville, and East Petersburg.

Iron ore was mined in open pits in the early part of the 1800's. Furnaces processed the ore and one of the major furnaces was located along the Susquehanna River. The archaeological remains of this furnace and related buildings can be seen at the Chickies Rock County Park. The abandoned mine pits dot the Township near the village of Ironville.

The Township is 17.2 square miles in area, which includes the Susquehanna River. The current population is nearly 15,000, and has grown most dramatically in the 1980's. This growth and the preservation of farmland have been major challenges. Some strides have been made to control growth and to direct it to appropriate areas in order to preserve farmland and natural areas.

Around the city, you'll find a variety of homes that suit people of all different incomes. New home developments can be found throughout the city, offering homebuyers a neighborhood atmosphere in a rural setting. Favorite features for newcomers, especially from urban areas, are the large size of the average lot and proximity to beautiful countryside.

Homes range in size and price, although like most of the cities in Pennsylvania, the housing market is more expensive than the national average. A four bedroom home with 2,800 square feet of space costs in the region of $280,000.

A diverse tapestry of architecture, the city is home to traditional, historic and modern architecture. You'll find a number of registered historical sites that require owners to adhere to specific standards. This is evident when you take a stroll down the brick sidewalks and enjoy the colonial architecture that can be found in one of the city's many historic neighborhoods. Many of the solidly built, stone or brick buildings once used for industry now serve as some of the city's most unique apartments, condominiums and homes.

Many internationally-recognized brand names have called this area home. Hershey's Chocolate was founded Lancaster in 1894. F.W. Woolworth established the country's first "5 & 10 cent" store in Lancaster in 1879.

The Hempfield School District serves this area, and is a complex and dynamic organization. Hempfield students consistently exceed state and national averages on numerous tests and assessments. This is largely attributable to the effectiveness of our staff, the quality of educational programs, and a supportive community, which values the importance of education.

Hempfield is part of Lancaster, and as such has much to offer the newcomer and also lifelong residents. This area is growing quickly due to all the variety, in housing, in nature and even in the people and their history. If you want to be an invaluable part of the future ? you will find yourself drawn to Hempfield!