Why Live in Bastress
Bastress, Pennsylvania, is a small rural township in North Central Pennsylvania, established in the 1850s by German farmers. The community retains its historical roots, with farms and orchards like Steinbacher Orchard and Eck still operating. Immaculate Conception Church, a Catholic parish built in 1860, remains a central fixture, hosting annual picnics that draw large crowds. The local social scene revolves around Nippenose Tavern, known for its beer, pub food, and live music, and The Dairy Shack, which serves ice cream. Nearby, Oval Country Store and a Dollar General provide daily necessities, while fresh produce is available from local farms and Amish roadside stands. Bastress is characterized by homes on large plots of land, often over 2 acres, with properties frequently passed down through families. The township has a low crime risk, with a crime score significantly lower than the national average. Residents often commute to Williamsport, 7 miles away, for work and healthcare at UPMC Hospital, or travel to Williamsport Regional Airport, 12 miles east, for flights to Washington Dulles International Airport. Recreational activities include youth baseball and softball at Nippenose Valley Park, located 2 miles south, which also features a playground, basketball court, and tennis courts.