Clearfield blends rural beauty with access to Penn State’s main campus
Clearfield is a quiet rural borough, with multi-generational locals, a historic little downtown and countryside charm. When including the nearby communities of Plymptonville and Hyde, the area has about 8,000 residents who get a lot out of their secluded, yet convenient, location. "It's got that small-town feeling with great people and a lot of community involvement," says Kimberly Kovall, a Realtor with Realty One Group Landmark who lives in Clearfield. "People also commute to State College and Penn State from Clearfield," she says. "It's only about 50 minutes away." The Pennsylvania State University has many locations across the state, with its main campus only 40 miles from Clearfield, in the Borough of State College. Commuter or not, Clearfield's residents enjoy quiet and natural surroundings close to home.
Witmer Park in Clearfield offers riverside paths along the West Branch Susquehanna River.
A historic downtown and rural setting give Clearfield its close-knit, small-town character.
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Rural areas offer larger homes and more yard space
The West Branch Susquehanna River runs through the borough's center, curving past the small downtown and residential neighborhoods. Near the area's center, late-1800s cottages, early-1900s bungalows and Cape Cods sell for $50,000 to $90,000. Neighborhoods become more rural and sprawling as they extend away from the main area, especially into Hyde and Plymptonville. Styles from later decades with more yard space and square footage, like ranch-style homes, split-levels and Colonial Revivals, range between $100,000 and $310,000. "You can get more bang for your buck than in State College," Kovall says. "The same home that costs about $300,000 in Clearfield would cost half a million in State College or the closer suburbs."
According to First Street, homes in the area are at severe risk from flooding, especially those closest to the river. Additional flood insurance may be necessary in addition to standard insurance.
Ranch-style homes like this are typical in Clearfield’s quieter, more rural areas.
Clearfield’s older neighborhoods feature closely set homes along quiet, walkable streets.
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Interstate 80 and local transit support regional travel
Interstate 80, one of the state's main east-west highways, passes north of Clearfield. However, the primary route commuters use is U.S. Route 322, which goes through the borough and heads about 40 miles to Penn State. Larger cities, Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, are each about 125 miles from the area, both with an international airport. Area Transportation Authority of North Central Pennsylvania has three Clearfield routes that stop throughout the borough and connect to Curwensville. One stop is at Penn Highlands Clearfield, the local hospital and a significant employer.
An ATA bus stops in downtown Clearfield, connecting residents to routes across the borough.
Major roadways through Clearfield offer convenient access across central Pennsylvania.
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Clearfield schools earn average ratings but shine in sports
Clearfield Elementary School is rated C by Niche and teaches kindergarten through sixth grade. Clearfield Area Junior-Senior High School, for seventh grade through graduation, earns a C-plus. "Athletics are a big deal at Clearfield's school district – especially football," Kovall says. "The whole community goes to games, and high school has had many kids who continue to play at college with scholarships." The school's most well-known football alumnus is Andrew Janocko, who played at Pittsburgh and is the current quarterback coach for the Seattle Seahawks. Clearfield Alliance Christian School is a private Christian school in the area, rated B-minus by Niche.
Located in Clearfield, the Area Elementary School anchors the borough’s primary education.
Clearfield Area Junior-Senior High School serves students from seventh grade through graduation.
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Converted railroads and pocket parks are along the river’s banks
Upper and Lower Witmer Park have walking trails, playgrounds, picnic tables and fishing docks along the West Branch Susquehanna River. Residents play baseball, soccer, basketball and pick-up football in Lawrence Township Recreational Park. David S. Ammerman Trail is a former railroad converted into a recreational trail. "It runs from Clearfield to Grampian, so that's a popular spot for biking and hiking," Kovall says.
Clearfield’s Witmer Park offers riverside trails with views of the surrounding neighborhood.
Lawrence Township Recreational Park near Clearfield hosts fields and courts for popular local sports.
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Seasonal events support strong ties among locals
Community ties are strong in Clearfield, and annual events bring new and old residents together. The longest-running event is the Clearfield County Fair, which will celebrate its 165th year in July 2026. A parade, carnival rides, food, games and competitions fill the week-long event, and fireworks cap off the final night. "We also have a fall festival, and the Chamber of Commerce does a wine and beer tasting with local businesses, nearby wineries and breweries," Kovall says. September's Original Music Festival is a new addition to the social calendar, highlighting musicians from the county.
A charming downtown has historic buildings and local restaurants
Downtown has a few historic buildings, including the Clearfield County Courthouse and the Dimeling Hotel, two locations on the National Register of Historic Places. The walkable center has office buildings, restaurants and shops, and "Citizens volunteer their time to decorate the downtown area before any big holidays," Kovall says. "It's beautiful during winter, and we decorate big for the Fourth of July and Memorial Day." Spanky's Courthouse Café dishes out heaping servings of supersized omelets and French toast for breakfast, and sandwiches, fish and fries for lunch. J.G. Food Warehouse, chain restaurants and national retailers are in small shopping strips, and Walmart and Lowe's are north towards the interstate.
Spanky’s Courthouse Café is a longtime Clearfield spot known for oversized omelets.
Scotto’s Pizzeria of Clearfield serves classic pizzas and Italian favorites in the downtown area.
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Written By
Heather Haggerty
Photography Contributed By
Mark Tilley
Video By
Chris Norton
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kristine Foltz, ABR, SRS,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Clearfield, PA sell after 120 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Clearfield, PA over the last 12 months is $149,900, up 58% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Dont miss this incredibly rare opportunity to own a truly special piece of Pennsylvania outdoor paradise. This beautiful property stretches along Little Clearfield Creek, a stocked trout stream known for excellent fishing and year-round recreation. The land features a stunning elevated building site, perfectly situated to overlook the water and surrounding natural beauty.Ideal for outdoor
Paul BakerKeller Williams Advantage Realty - Western Pennsylvania
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4-unit building in the heart of Clearfield, offering strong income potential. Each unit is clean and functional, with a reliable rental history. Property includes off-street parking, easy access to downtown, and low-maintenance features throughout. Gas heat. Perfect opportunity to live in one unit and let the other tenants help pay your mortgage--
This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a perfect blend of comfort and modern updates. The bright, updated kitchen features contemporary finishes, while the tile bathrooms add a touch of style and function. Enjoy a spacious living room and dining room -- perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Conveniently located close to schools, shopping, and other amenities.
Kimberly KovallRealty One Group Landmark- Clearfield
Welcome to this three-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath home located in Clearfield. This well-kept two-story residence combines comfort, convenience, and small-town charm in one perfect package.The main floor features a warm and inviting living area, a functional kitchen, and a dining area ideal for family meals or entertaining guests. Upstairs, you’ll find three comfortable bedrooms offering
Well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath home located in a nice neighborhood. Situated on a 0.20-acre lot, this property offers a manageable yard with plenty of outdoor space. Features natural gas heat for efficient and reliable comfort. A solid option for first-time buyers, downsizers, or investors looking for a move-in ready home in Clearfield.
Absolutely stunning three-story, 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home at 731 S 2nd Street in Clearfield that offers over 5,200 square feet of finished living space. Inside, you'll find spacious bedrooms, multiple living areas, and several gas fireplaces that add warmth and ambiance. The home features hardwood floors, natural gas heating, and stainless-steel appliances, all complemented by a fenced yard
Gems are rare, but a keeper when you find it! This adorable 1950 Cape Cod is charming, loaded with character, and extremely clean! Located on the desirable West 1st Ave., 1 block from the Susquehanna River, your front views are across the river to downtown Clearfield. The home styles on this street range from 1800's neoclassic to early 1900s Victorian, to this Cape Cod with class! Exterior is
Great opportunity to purchase one of the few remaining building lots within the Clearfield Borough. This property is flat and has access to all utilities. Schedule a showing today!
In the heart of Clearfield you'll find this brick, 2-story home, ready for a new owner.Enter the front door and you'll be impressed with the high ceilings, spacious rooms and updated kitchen complete with Amish built cabinets. A first-floor bathroom and laundry room round out the main level. On the 2nd floor you'll find 3 bedrooms & a renovated full bathroom. The walk-up attic provides
One of Central Pennsylvania's most unique and stunning properties, this +/- 40.73-acre estate offers multiple homes, a small cabin, three stocked ponds, trails, phenomenal hunting, timber value, development potential, and so much more. The A-frame features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, wood-burning fireplaces, custom doors and cabinets, California redwood, Douglas fir
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