Everson

As the neighborhood motto goes, you're never a stranger in Everson Borough. Southeast Pittsburgh's Fayette County community sits in the region's scenic mountain foothills. The Laurel Highlands sweep into Jacob's Creek, which you'll cross on your way into the historic hamlet. Everson's small-town charm is immediately evident with its quiet streets and historical infrastructure. This close community is for buyers seeking character and investment opportunities. "It's an area that's very quaint, quiet and historic," says Caroline Barrett Douglass, Realtor at Realty One Group Platinum and frequent local seller.

Early 20th-century structures in varying conditions line steep grassy hills, narrowly trimmed with uneven sidewalks. Classic Craftsman designs pack in tight alongside other architectural testaments to the town's local history – timeworn storefronts and century-old houses with an alluring patina await new owners looking for a peaceful place. You can invest in this cozy town for as low as $75,000, which buys a simple single-family spot that needs a little TLC. Double the budget for a larger residence with original woodwork and a wood-burning fireplace, or spend $200,000 for something with recent renovations and more than 2,000 square feet. In this rural area, properties often stick around for a few months before finding a new owner.

Everson kids can attend school within the Southmoreland District, spending kindergarten through first grade at the Southmoreland Primary Center, rated B on Niche, and continuing to Southmoreland Elementary, rated B-minus, through fifth grade. Southemoreland Senior High, rated B, is the last stop for public school students. The high school graduation rate is a soaring 92%, and many of these high achievers opt to enroll in advanced placement courses to earn college credit. All three schools are less than a 10-minute drive away, which helps families with busy schedules.

Everson residents head to Centennial Park's simple setup to get fresh air. The kids can play on the swings and run around the playground while other visitors rest under the pavilion. Similar pocket parks are scattered across town when you want to switch it up. The Coal and Coke Trail is a short, paved greenway locals use for brisk waterside bike rides. Most community gatherings take place outdoors, and residents can stay updated on upcoming events on the town website. You'll keep in touch with your neighbors at holiday celebrations and casual get-togethers.

Miller's Pizza can be your go-to for a bite, as it's your closest restaurant and loved by locals. You'll find more popular places across the creek and railroad tracks, within walking or biking distance for active locals. Coffee shops, taverns and diner-style spots have a casual, no-frills throughline that makes you feel welcome and comfortable wherever you go. "The main street smells so good as you walk by the local restaurants," Barrett Douglass says. There are a few small stores and specialty shops in town where you may be able to pick up a few things on your list, but most residents drive a couple of miles into Buckeye to visit Walmart and Aldi. The commercial area is filled with fast-food restaurants when you need a meal on the go.

Everson is roughly 45 miles southeast of central Pittsburgh by way of Interstate 76, with an inlet around 15 minutes north. "It's an active area – nice and central. You can get to most places in 15 to 20 minutes," Barrett Douglass says. Government offices and health centers are among Fayette County's top employers, followed closely by the regional school districts. Most Everson locals commute by car, but you'll also find city buses making stops along the nearby Broadway Street. Welcome home to Everson.

Written By

Caeleigh Griffin

Photography Contributed By

Robert Beary

Video By

Mark Barakat