$223,806Average Value$111Average Price per Sq Ft1Home For Sale
Avella preserves rich history and modern community life in rural southwestern PA
Avella is a former coal mining town in southwestern Pennsylvania that’s much closer to West Virginia’s northern panhandle than it is to the cities of Washington or Pittsburgh. Railroad tracks helped grow that strong multi-generational industry more than a century ago, though its old school coal town trappings are positively modern when compared to the Meadowcroft Rockshelter, among the oldest prehistoric human settlements in North America and an active archeological site that's just outside of town. Urban as it might be when compared to millennia-removed campsites or the rural townships that surround it to this day, Avella has long been packaged with the rolling farmland that it interrupts. “Avella’s smaller than you can imagine. But it’s more than the little village, it’s the surrounding area and school district too. There’re more cows than people,” says Doug Burig, an associate broker with Keller Williams who’s specialized in Washington County for more than 40 years. This far from commuter highways and commercial areas, Avella's own community events and recreation centers are gathering spots for neighbors that live far down country roads, showcasing the slower-paced lifestyle of another age.
Old coal mining towns like Avella are know for their train tracks.
Meadowcroft Rockshelter in Cross Creek-Jefferson was discovered in 1973 by Albert Miller.
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A blend of century-old and more modern single-family homes
Residents of the village of Avella find century-old properties on small, urban and suburban lots that branch from Avella Road. Simple prewar styles like National homes carry the memory of the village’s coal town days into the modern age, but some developments farther from the main drag also introduced bi-levels and ranch-styles homes through the later 20th century. Prices typically range from around $50,000 to $300,000. Avella is small enough that listings rarely come on the market and tend to linger there for more days than the national average when they do.
A bi-level home with a two car garage sits off the road on a slight rise.
A traditional American Four Square home is a staple in the rural Avella area.
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Avella Area schools and career preparation
Avella Elementary Center serves kindergarten through sixth grade and earns a C-plus from Niche. Students finish up at Avella Area Jr./Sr. High School, which also earns a C-plus. The district’s oldest students can get a jump on career preparation by enrolling in dual enrollment classes through the Community College of Beaver County or through a half-day program at the Western Area Career and Technology Center.
Students living in Cross Creek-Jefferson attend Avella Elementary School.
Students living in Cross Creek-Jefferson attend Avella Junior-Senior High School.
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Shopping and dining in Avella and Washington
Though it’s more densely populated than much of Independence Township, Avella remains a relatively sparse commercial area. Avella Road is home to more municipal buildings than stores and restaurants, but locals can still grab a bite there at Pizza Casa. Other larger restaurants like Breezy Heights Tavern & Restaurant operate a few miles from the village center. Some local farms can supply fresh vegetables, meat and honey within several miles of home, but for groceries beyond what’s available at the Sunoco gas station’s neighboring Uni-Mart, residents are driving about 15 miles away to Washington. The county seat’s walkable downtown is home to smaller businesses and restaurants, while satelliting strip mall developments offer big-box stores like Walmart and Lowe’s.
Avella is a rural town with limited dining options like Pizza Casa.
The Uni-Mart offers convenience and fuel for residents of Avella.
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Independence Township, Washington County and privately operated recreation
The village of Avella houses many of Independence Township’s recreation centers, including the playground and pavilions at Independence Township Community Park. The Avella Area Public Library is inside the same old school building as the Independence Township Community Center. Larger public and private recreation areas are within a few miles’ drive. “They’re putting a lot of money into Cross Creek. That’s a Washington County park – it’s beautiful, a big draw in the area,” says Burig. “Then you’ve got Breezy Heights Tavern – it's a place where you can drive some golf balls and get a beer.” A new dock was installed at Cross Creek County Park in 2024 to better serve anglers who have long cast into the central lake. While it’s best known for its restaurant, Breezy Heights Tavern’s driving range, picturesque lakefront and rentable event spaces make it double as a private recreation hub alongside nearby golf courses, gun clubs and equestrian centers.
Independence Township Community Park is in a beautiful country setting.
The Avella Area Public Library is located inside the Independence Township Community Center.
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Rodeos and atlatl throwing at Avella area community events
Between the local houses of worship, schools and civic groups, Avella experiences no shortage of classic community events. Larger traditions like Little A Town Arena’s rodeo are held annually, while some churches and the volunteer fire department host more frequent fundraising dinners. Throughout the regular season, Meadowcroft Rockshelter draws visitors looking to marvel at the nearly 20,000-year-old archeological site that evidences the continent’s earliest human inhabitants. History gets a little more hands-on during special events like the Meadowcroft Atlatl Competition. Skilled marksmen compete to demonstrate their assisted spear-throwing prowess, but amateur atlatl throwers are also welcome to try their own arms. Residents can keep up to date on the next season’s events through The Declaration of Independence Township newsletter.
Taking Route 50 toward Pittsburgh and Washington County hubs
This pocket of Independence Township is defined by farmland and forests; outside of heading to a handful of nearby manufacturers and family farms, Avella's commuters often travel to reach major employers in Washington and Allegheny counties. State Route 50 is Avella’s connection to the outside world, placing Pittsburgh around 35 miles to the east and the West Virginia border only 5 miles in the opposite direction. Residents rely on cars to get to UPMC Washington Hospital and Canonsburg Hospital, each around 20 miles away. Pittsburgh International Airport is nearly 30 miles from home.
Flood risk along Cross Creek
A fork of Cross Creek curves through Avella, bringing a higher risk flood zone through the village. Buyers can consult maps to understand their need for insurance and risk levels following unusually heavy rain.
Written By
Julia Szymanski
Photography Contributed By
Anthony Kelly
Video By
Edward Pokoj
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Adam Wheeler,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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Discover the unmatched potential of this 219+/-acre surveyed property located in scenic Avella, Pennsylvania. Bordering the expansive Cross Creek County Park, this remarkable tract of land offers privacy, beauty, and versatility in a highly sought-after area of Washington County.The property features over 3,000 feet of South Fork Cross Creek gently winding through its landscape, enhancing
Great move-in ready ranch home! Featuring three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, this single-level layout offers ease and convenience. The spacious primary suite boasts a massive ensuite bathroom with a large soaking tub and double vanity. Enjoy outdoor living in the fenced-in backyard with a sunken deck .Ample parking space adds to the home’s functionality.
Looking for a place to call home? This charming two-bedroom colonial at 119 Highland Avenue might just be the one you've been waiting for. Tucked away on a peaceful street in Avella, this home offers a comfortable layout with spacious bedrooms, a walkout basement and over 1,100 square feet of living space -- giving you plenty of room to grow, personalize and make it your own. Whether
Discover the unmatched potential of this 219+/-acre surveyed property located in scenic Avella, Pennsylvania. Bordering the expansive Cross Creek County Park, this remarkable tract of land offers privacy, beauty, and versatility in a highly sought-after area of Washington County.The property features over 3,000 feet of South Fork Cross Creek gently winding through its landscape, enhancing
Great move-in ready ranch home! Featuring three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, this single-level layout offers ease and convenience. The spacious primary suite boasts a massive ensuite bathroom with a large soaking tub and double vanity. Enjoy outdoor living in the fenced-in backyard with a sunken deck .Ample parking space adds to the home’s functionality.
Looking for a place to call home? This charming two-bedroom colonial at 119 Highland Avenue might just be the one you've been waiting for. Tucked away on a peaceful street in Avella, this home offers a comfortable layout with spacious bedrooms, a walkout basement and over 1,100 square feet of living space -- giving you plenty of room to grow, personalize and make it your own. Whether
In the quiet embrace of acres of farmland, 30 miles southwest of Pittsburgh and less than 15 miles from the West Virginia and Ohio border, lies Cross Creek Township, a go-to for those seeking spacious lands and a slower pace of life. The township's history is planted into its very soil, sitting atop the formidable Pittsburgh Coal Seam, a pioneer of natural gas exploration that fueled Pittsburgh's steel industry. Home to around 1,500 residents, it exudes a small-town charm that resonates through its history, agricultural roots and community.
There's no city life to be found for miles in Cross Creek, but that's just why people move here. "We wanted to live close to family, and this was a beautiful area within driving distance to Pittsburgh," says Mary Burns, Owner of The Crafty Alpaca. It is a one-of-a-kind store where you can get hand-woven gifts of Alpaca fibers raised on their farm. "I hand make the yarn for our products, such as hats and scarfs, and people can come to take a tour and spend time with the alpacas," she continues, "we also have a learning center where we educate visitors on alpacas and general farm life."
The homes in Cross Creek are as diverse as the landscape itself. From American Four-Square homes to sturdy brick-ranch styles and classic farmhouse designs, homes exude craftsman influences. While the lack of sidewalks speaks to the rural locale, attached garages, long driveways, covered front porches and backyard sheds are central features. Here, you'll find a range of homes, from two-bedrooms to sprawling homesteads, with prices spanning from $70,000 to $300,000.
Students of this rural community may be a part of the Avella Area School District, with both schools on the same campus grounds, serving less than 700 students. According to Niche, Avella Elementary Center and Avella Area Jr. Senior High School have a grade of C-plus. Upperclassmen may sign up for after-school activities such as a community service club, science club and National Honor Society.
As for outdoor recreation, Cedar Grove Park has raised funds through a community fundraiser to update the park with multi-use sports courts, picnic pavilions and rubber mulch. The Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village is the oldest site of human settlement on the continent. As Washington County's most expansive green space, Cross Creek County Park is a go-to spot; with several boat launches, you can get out on your kayak or boat and cruise along the waters of Cross Creek Lake and even cast your line for crappie fish and bluegill. Locals hike here and don't worry, there's a playground for the kids. You Might want to stop by Cross Creek's Original Bait and Tackle, a family-owned business with fishing tools and boat rentals.
In Cross Creek, you won't find dozens of chain restaurants, but several neighborhood pubs. Bull Penn Rustic Inn is a local spot designed like a cabin, making its patrons feel extra cozy. Visitors will flood for live music nights and good ole' country staples. Originally a general store in the early 1900s, the Breezy Heights Tavern has since transitioned into a family restaurant with a mini-golf course outside and unique décor of taxidermy lions, cougars and bears greeting guests. While you won't find chain grocery stores, Kauffman Family Marketplace and Cross Creek Farm Market provide essentials, rooted in local sourcing.
Just a short drive away lies the nearest highway, Pennsylvania Route 18, and if you need to head to big box stores such as Costco, Target and Ikea, The Point at North Fayette and Robinson Mall are about 21 miles away. Washington County throws several county-wide annual events, such as the Whiskey Rebellion Festival, complete with historical reenactments, food and festivities for the whole family. So, if you're looking for a slow, nature-saturated lifestyle, settling down in Cross Creek may be your solution.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Avella Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
715
Median Age
47
Population under 18
20.6%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
26.3%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$68,478
On par with the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$89,180
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
93.8%
College Graduates
18.1%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
3.8%
Below the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
61.3%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
38''
Average Winter Low Temperature
23°F
Average Summer High Temperature
83°F
Annual Snowfall
2''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®®
1/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®®
7/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
