In South Central Pennsylvania, Chambersburg has a long history dating back to the early 18th century. Benjamin Chambers settled the borough in 1730, determining that the confluence of Conococheaque Creek and Falling Spring was a desirable location for industrial mills. While mills no longer line the waterfront, Chambersburg is now a vibrant community anchored by a walkable downtown with local businesses, restaurants, art galleries and historic sites. “Our downtown is remarkable,” says Sam Thrush, the president of Downtown Chambersburg Inc. and a longtime resident. “The storefronts are filled with businesses of all kinds.” American flags surround Memorial Square in the heart of Downtown Chambersburg and the Chambersburg Historic District, where the Memorial Fountain and Statue honor the borough’s rich history as the only town north of the Mason-Dixon Line to be burned by the Confederacy during the Civil War. “Our Memorial Square is one of the few in Pennsylvania that still has a fountain in the center of it. Traffic has to go around it, and that square is the center of our major downtown events,” Thrush says. Home to just under 22,000 people, Chambersburg is the county seat of Franklin County and offers a central location in the Cumberland Valley, about 55 miles from the state capital of Harrisburg.
Downtown Chambersburg serves as a hub of rich history preservation.
Chambersburg borough's rich history is on display at sites like the Old Franklin County Jail.
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Local businesses, entertainment and a rich history in Downtown Chambersburg
Downtown Chambersburg sits at the crossroads of U.S. Routes 11 and 30, which locals know as Main Street and Lincoln Highway, respectively. “We’re blessed to have a lot of strong businesses in our downtown,” Thrush says. Local businesses are ingrained into the fabric of the community, and longstanding institutions like Olympia Candy Kitchen and Ludwig’s Jewelers have been around for more than a century. The downtown dining scene includes everything from casual cafés and pizzerias to upscale bistros and local watering holes. Shopping centers line the outskirts of town and offer department stores, big-box retailers and grocery stores. Downtown Chambersburg is also a hub for the borough’s artistic community. The Foundry Art Market serves as an artist cooperative, while the Capitol Theatre Center hosts the Chambersburg Ballet and Chambersburg Community Theatre. “They do various events throughout the year. This past October, they did ‘Rocky Horror’, and this past December, they did a radio play of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’” Thrush says.
The borough’s rich history is on display at sites like the Old Franklin County Jail, one of the few buildings to survive the burning of Chambersburg in 1864. Visitors can schedule guided tours of the historic jail, which is also believed to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad and today houses the Franklin County Historical Society. Five areas of Franklin County’s rich history are on display at the Chambersburg Heritage Center, including a special focus on the area’s role in the Civil War.
Ludwig’s Jewelers have been around Chambersburg for more than a century.
The Capitol Theatre Center in Chambersburg hosts the Chambersburg Ballet and Community Theatre.
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Events in Downtown Chambersburg include IceFest
Downtown Chambersburg is a destination for community events. The annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting kick off the holiday season as festive floats, local marching bands and Santa Claus himself make their way down Main Street. “One thing I hear from other towns that they’re envious of is how bright our downtown is during the holiday season. There’s a lot of pride in making sure that the lights are bright and shiny, and they certainly cheer us all up at the start of the winter season,” Thrush says. Chambersburg’s IceFest is the largest ice festival in Pennsylvania and features four full days of ice-themed activities. “Our IceFest is remarkable. It includes at least 17 giant ice sculptures, which are taller than your normal human being,” Thrush says. Other popular events that support the borough’s local businesses include Old Market Day, AppleFest and Trick or Treat on Main.
The doublewide ice slide is hugely popular with the local kids at the IceFest in Chambersburg.
Sculptors put the finishing touches on their works at the IceFest in Chambersburg.
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Comparatively low home prices and limited inventory in Chambersburg
Residential streets surround Downtown Chambersburg. The borough's oldest homes date to the 19th century and include a mix of Foursquares, workers cottages and Colonial Revivals, some of which have been converted into duplexes. Further from the town center, Cape Cod and ranch-style homes are the norm. The median price of single-family homes is $265,000, significantly lower than the national median of more than $420,000. Limited inventory means that the amount of supply is also well below the national average, and most properties sell after an average of 29 days on the market. Newer townhouse developments are concentrated around the outskirts of town, and the median price for townhouses is around $245,000.
New construction developments are being built just outside of Downtown Chambersburg.
Townhomes with modest yards perfect for kids and pets offer a media price of $265,000 in Chambersburg.
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Chambersburg Area School District, private schools and Wilson College
The Chambersburg Area School District earns an overall grade of B-minus from Niche. With almost 10,000 students, it’s the 22nd largest school district in Pennsylvania. It consists of 13 elementary schools, two middle schools, a traditional high school and a career magnet high school with an emphasis on STEM. All schools receive a C or higher from Niche. Nearby private school options include the Cumberland Valley Christian School, a college preparatory school serving prekindergarten through 12th grade. In the northwestern corner of Chambersburg is Wilson College, a private institution with more than 1,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Its 300-acre campus is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is known for its striking Victorian and Gothic-inspired architecture.
Wilson College offers Chambersburg locals higher education.
Cumberland Valley Christian School offers a faith based education.
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Chambersburg Memorial Park, local rail trail and the Appalachian Mountains
According to the Trust for Public Land, 78% of Chambersburg residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park. Standouts include the 37-acre Chambersburg Memorial Park, which features various athletic facilities, a playground and a bandshell where the borough hosts the annual Summer Concert Series. It’s also home to the Chambersburg Aquatic Center, where residents can cool off during humid summers. “I’ve personally been buying season passes there for my family. They have waterslides, a diving board, a rock-climbing wall, a lazy river and a whole water playground for the kids to play on,” Thrush says. “I don’t know too many towns that have that.” The Chambersburg Rail Trail runs parallel to Conococheague Creek, and the Coyle Free Library hosts recreational and educational programs for all ages. After receiving an $879,865 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development in 2022, Downtown Chambersburg Inc. is working to build an open-air amphitheater next to Chambers Fort Park. “Our intention is to have the amphitheater ready to go by the fall of 2025,” Thrush says.
Chambersburg also sits next to the Appalachian Mountains, and spots like Caledonia State Park are about 10 miles from the borough. “It’s a short bike or car ride out to the mountains on either side of us,” Thrush says. “There are state forests and game lands on either side of us as well.” The Appalachian Trail passes through Caledonia State Park, and several trails are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the region’s snowy winters. Golfers can join the nearby Chambersburg Country Club and access an 18-hole championship golf course, outdoor pool and tennis courts.
The Chambersburg Rail Trail is an 18 mile long multi-use trail.
Caledonia State Park has walking trails throughout it.
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A central location between the two biggest cities in Pennsylvania
In addition to serving as the heart of Downtown Chambersburg, U.S. Routes 11 and 30 provide access to major thoroughfares such as Interstates 81 and 76. The borough lacks public transportation, meaning residents typically rely on their own cars to get around the rest of the Cumberland Valley and beyond. The borough is also centrally located between the two biggest cities in Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, each about 160 miles away. For air travel, Harrisburg International Airport is around 65 miles from the borough.
The borough is home to WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, the second-largest employer is all of Franklin County. Many of the county’s business parks sit along the I-81 corridor just south of Chambersburg. The Chambers-5 Business Park, CADCO Industrial Park and Progress Park supply hundreds of jobs to the region and host major employers like Martin's Famous Pastry Shoppe Inc. The bakery company is known for its signature potato rolls, and the borough celebrates New Year’s Eve with a unique twist on the classic Times Square ball drop. As the clock approaches midnight on December 31st, residents gather in Downtown Chambersburg to watch a giant bag of Martin’s Famous Potato Rolls drop into Chambers Fort Park.
WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital serves as the cities second-largest employer.
Interstate 81 runs through Chambersburg and offers easy access for commuters.
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Low utility rates and a slightly higher CAP Index crime score
Chambersburg is one of the few communities in the United States to have its own electric and natural gas systems. The borough also operates a regional water and sanitary sewer system. “Because of that, we have some of the lowest utility rates in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Thrush says.
The borough’s overall CAP Index crime score is 5 out of 10, higher than the national average of 4. Data from the Chambersburg Police Department shows less than a 1% increase in the total number of offenses reported between 2022 and 2023, with larceny accounting for around 26% of reported crimes in 2023.
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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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On average, homes in Chambersburg, PA sell after 41 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Chambersburg, PA over the last 12 months is $285,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
4 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Split Foyer Coming Soon in Laurich Gems! Big rooms throughout and 4 levels! Large family kitchen with appliances replaced in 2019! New composite upper deck off the dining area will last for years ! Heat Pump installed in 2019 as well a new roof at the same time! Just a couple steps to upstairs where you will find 2 full baths and 4 well appointed bedrooms. Master has a full
Joshua NelsonIron Valley Real Estate of Chambersburg
**MOVE IN READY !The Doral II features 3 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, front porch with stone at grade, Lvp at Foyer, Flex Space, Kitchen and Family Room, Granite kitchen countertops, 3 x 5 Island with overhang, Stainless steel appliances, Crown Molding on Kitchen wall cabinets. Enjoy Entertaining in your SUNROOM! Owners Bathroom with tiled shower, double sinks, walk in closet,
1.42+/- ACRES ZONED MEDIUM MANUFACTURING – LOTS OF POTENTIAL USES! PUBLIC WATER AND SEWER AVAILABLE, ALONG WITH ELECTRIC! This 1.42+/- acre parcel offers a great opportunity for a variety of business, commercial, and manufacturing uses. With Medium Manufacturing zoning, nice level land, and utilities available, there are many possibilities for how this property could be used. The property is
Thoughtful renovation. Remarkable Setting.A Home That Lives as Beautifully as Its SurroundingsJust off Walker Road, a private drive leads through Pheasant Run, one of Chambersburg's most distinctive residential settings. Leading to beautifully established estate homes, each is thoughtfully positioned among mature trees to preserve spacious privacy, tranquility, and the natural
Welcome home to 3437 Eagle Drive and to this beautifully maintained home. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable Scott Green Estates, ideally situated adjacent to the Country Club. Offering 4 bedrooms and 3½ baths, this spacious home provides the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and versatility. Beautiful hardwood floors flow throughout, while the granite kitchen offers an inviting
Experience exceptional craftsmanship, privacy, and functionality in this one-of-a-kind custom estate nestled on more than four acres with breathtaking mountain views. Thoughtfully designed and custom built by the owner for the owner, this remarkable property offers over 6,000 square feet of finished living space with multiple options for additional Bedrooms along with an impressive
Welcome to 3393 Braemar Drive... Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in desirable Scott Green Estates, this double lot property with exceptional 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers over 4,700 square feet of beautifully designed living space with privacy, convenience, and breathtaking views. Enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, schools, and Interstate travel while benefiting from a low-traffic setting that
Over 2 Acres in Total which is divided into Lots 4, 5 & 6 that are being sold as a package and will not be separated. These 3 lots are Tax UPI 20-0M05.-138(Lot4), UPI 20-0M05.-050B(Lot5) and UPI 20-0M05.-050A(Lot 6). Lots 4 and 6 have Public Water Taps already paid. Lot 5 does not have any Public Water Tap available and a well would be needed. All 3 lots have Public Sewer Available and would need
THIS CAN BE MADE INTO A 2 UNIT VERY EASILY BY WALLING OFF THE STAIRS..Welcome to your own private retreat in Chambersburg! Nestled on 4.27 picturesque acres, this beautifully updated property featuring a large circular driveway also offers over 3,700 square feet of finished living space, making it ideal for multi-generational living or rental income. No horses? no problem use this as another
The views are everything!! The covered front porch invites you to sit and enjoy the beautiful Mountain skyline in any weather! This home has a large living room space, both bathrooms have been completely redone and a nice Florida room has been added!You’ll enjoy being in every single space in this house!! The granite countertops and updated kitchen flow nicely with the dining space and
****NEW NEW NEW****A new dishwasher and stove have just been installed! Also new in this home is the garage door opener. The water heater was installed 2023, a new HVAC was installed in 2022.All of the major items have been taken care of! This home is the perfect canvas for you to come make it your own.A well, built, well maintained, solid brick home is hard to find these days. This
Welcome to 1452 Falcon Ln, a beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home built in 2023 and thoughtfully enhanced with custom finishes, modern smart-home conveniences, and beautifully designed outdoor spaces. As the first and only owners, the sellers have kept this home in excellent condition while adding upgrades that make it truly stand out. Enjoy all the benefits of newer
Mountain Views on Nearly 3/4 Acre in Hamilton Township!Welcome to 4521 Fort McCord Rd, a 1984-built Dutch Colonial offering 1,920 square feet of living space on a 0.69-acre lot with panoramic mountain views. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home blends classic country charm with the systems and space to make everyday living easy.Inside, you'll find a functional layout with a main-level
Spectacular South Guilford Hills Building Lot – 1.36 Acres Rare opportunity to build your dream home on one of the most unique and scenic lots in South Guilford Hills. Nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this 1.36-acre homesite offers privacy, natural beauty, and a setting that is difficult to duplicate. Perched high above the picturesque Falling Spring stream, the property features
Highway Commercial Property with Endless Potential – Prime Route 30 Location Opportunity awaits with this versatile property located on busy Route 30 near Walmart, offering exceptional visibility and Highway Commercial zoning. Whether you're looking for an investment property, a business location, or a combination of both, this property provides flexibility that's hard to find. Originally built
Location-Location for this pristine 2-Bedroom Home for Rent in the Heart of Chambersburg! This beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom single-level house offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and convenience. Featuring an updated kitchen and bathroom, this home is move-in ready. The open living space is ideal for relaxing or entertaining, with plenty of natural light throughout. Step
Located in Chambersburg, PA, Quinn Station is situated next to Nicholson Square Park and offers quick access to major routes in the area. Enjoy the spacious, wide-open area with easy commutes. An electric stove, microwave, dishwasher and refrigerator are included with each townhome as well as central air conditioning, gas heat and electric washer & dryer hookups. Townhomes also come with a
Call Foxpoint home! Located in Chambersburg, PA, Foxpoint allows you to lead the lifestyle you have always envisioned.Our beautiful, pet-friendly townhomes offer the perfect blend of form and function. The style we provide extends beyond the thoughtfully-designed interiors, perfectly sized living areas, and modern fixtures of your new home. Complete with a clubhouse, dog park and walking
Extremely up scale townhouse rentals for todays professionals. These units come well appointed with upgrades tile floors throughout the whole first floor including hallways and bathrooms. Upgrades granite counter tops along with custom cabinets. Crown molding, indirect mood lighting, tray ceilings, rear covered patios, one car garage, private driveways. You will not find a cleaner, classier
Channing Drive TownhomesDiscover spacious and stylish living in our beautifully designed Channing Drive Townhomes. These impressive 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath homes offer the comfort and space you’ve been looking for, complete with an attached garage. Inside, you’ll find modern granite countertops, elegant tray ceilings, crown moulding, and thoughtfully designed layouts perfect for everyday living
Spacious and well appointed Garage Townhome. Quiet neighborhood and convenient location. Pets considered on a case by case basis. Some breed restrictions apply.
The Flats of Chambersburg offers spacious one bedroom apartments with large closets and much more. Apartments have newly updated interiors with fresh kitchens & baths. We are located in a fantastic location within walking distance of several restaurants, a variety of shops, and a Giant grocery store. Our proximity to I-81 & I-70 make our location easy for commuting.
Modern designs, elegant finishes, and upscale amenities are waiting for you at Highlands of Greenvillage. Our Chambersburg apartments and townhomes for rent come in two, three and four-bedroom layouts that are spacious and adaptable. A variety of interior luxuries adorn them including air conditioning, beautiful carpeting, a dishwasher and much more.
Creekside Apartments offers a blend of livability, design, and quality. The 1137 Hollywell Ave location in the 17201 neighborhood of Chambersburg has much to offer its residents. Let the leasing team show you everything this community has to offer. It's time to find your new home. Contact or stop by Creekside Apartments to learn more about our community!
Progress Homes is located in beautiful Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. All townhomes are 3 bedroom 2 ½ baths with garage. Choices between a 1 or 2 story unit with 1,800-2,000 square feet or a 3 story unit with 2,500 square feet. Vinyl and stone exteriors, stainless steel appliances and some with hardwood floor interiors as well as many upgrades throughout, like crown molding and tray ceilings – a
Adorable end unit Townhome in Chambersburg, PA, convenient to interstate, shopping and restaurants. Main floor offers light filled living room, half bath, kitchen and dining room with sliding doors to patio and parking. Upper level offers a 2 bedrooms with plenty of storage space and full bath. One car garage.Quiet and safe neighborhood.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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