During the coal heyday of the early 1900s, rural Fayette County’s Connellsville was home to more millionaires per capita than anywhere in the nation. Although its industry eventually became obsolete, remnants of its former glory remain in the spacious homes, ornate churches and historic shops that still line the streets. Connellsville’s rich history comes to life at the still-operating Carnegie Free Library, built in 1901 with funds from steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, and the 1907 Masonic Temple and Post Office. Colorful murals on the side of the Molinaro Family Law Office tell this founding family's century-long story, and at the Connellsville Canteen, set in an 1800s train station, visitors can explore the free WWII museum and renowned model railroad display or stop at the café.
But today, Connellsville has found new ways to shine. "Our No.1 attraction is natural resources. We have the Youghiogheny River and the Great Allegheny Passage running right through our city, and they draw people from all over the world. We're a great tourism hub, and we're looking to the future,” says Vern Ohler, city clerk and resident of Connellsville. “Plus, even with the cost of gas, our lower taxes and cost of living make it a steal to live in Connellsville."
Shop on Crawford Avenue
Although there are a few smaller markets east of the Youghiogheny River, including the Southside grocer Honey Bear and Connellsville Cash Saver, many residents head over to the Martin’s off Vanderbilt Road to satisfy their weekly grocery list. Retail and dining options are concentrated on either side of the river along Crawford Avenue, which serves as the city’s unofficial main street. Shops like T&A House of Treasures draw a crowd during First Friday events, while local staples like O’Donnell’s Pub serve comforting local fare on a spacious patio that overlooks the railroad tracks. To the south, Yough River Brewing Co. offers creative house brews in a bright and welcoming taproom and is a popular stop for hikers passing through the Great Allegheny Passage.
Choose one of many fresh brewed beers at Yough River Brewery in Connellsville.
Walk along the safe sidewalks of downtown Connellsville.
Grab a drink in downtown Connellsville.
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Farmers markets at the fire station
Throughout the year, residents of Connellsville enjoy attending events like farmers markets at the East Side Fire Station, summer concerts in the park and a community yard sale. In winter, First Friday shopping opportunities help bring business to local boutiques as the community prepares for the annual Christmas celebration.
Connellsville’s homes have historic appeal
With a median home price of $125,000, Connellsville offers buyers affordability and historic appeal. Many homes were built at the turn of the 20th century, including large Victorian, Italianate and Gothic Revival properties that include five bedrooms and list on the higher end of the market at nearly $240,000. Simpler colonial builds with about half the space tend to sell closer to the city’s median. Petite Cape Cods and bungalows built in the first half of the 1900s sit close to narrow, winding streets, while terraced lawns and spacious lots are more common on the hilly landscape farther from the city center. Not all streets have sidewalks, but with homes and community resources intermixed, the city remains walkable for many.
Small front yards are the perfect spot for your garden in Connellsville.
Gothic architecture with built in towers have 3 stories of living space in Connellsville.
Italianate style architecture adds character to the streets of Connellsville.
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College prep at Connellsville Area High
Students in Connellsville can attend West Crawford Elementary and Connellsville Area Middle, which both maintain grades of C-minus on Niche. At Connellsville Area High, which maintains a grade of C on Niche, students can earn early college credits with the College in High School program.
Hike the Great Allegheny Passage
At tree-filled East Park, visitors can explore an underground tunnel, gather for a picnic during a live performance or hike to a scenic spot overlooking a waterfall. Locals also head to Soissons Park for soccer games, tennis matches, after-school playdates and weekend disc golf championships. And throughout the year, hundreds of visitors go the distance on the Great Allegheny Passage, a regional trail spanning more than 20 miles.
Let the sounds of a flowing waterfall sooth you in East Park in Connellsville.
The kids of Connellsville can tire out on the playground at East Park.
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Commuter convenience in Connellsville
With U.S. Route 119 running through the center of town, an Amtrak station off Water Street and Connellsville Airport less than 6 miles away, Connellsville is convenient for both daily commuters and sporadic travelers. “It usually takes an hour to get to Pittsburgh, but if you leave early enough, you can be there in 45 minutes,” Ohler says of the 50-mile commute.
Karen Ransaw is a dedicated and knowledgeable real estate agent with the Jeff Dennis Team at RE/MAX Select Realty. Known for her professionalism & personalized approach, Karen brings a wealth of experience to each transaction, ensuring her clients feel supported and informed at every stage of the buying or selling process. Her in-depth knowledge of the local market, combined with her strong negotiation skills, allows her to deliver exceptional results. Karen takes the time to understand each client’s unique needs and goals, making the real estate experience smooth and enjoyable. As part of the highly regarded Jeff Dennis Team, Karen upholds a strong commitment to integrity, client satisfaction, & community connection. Remember, "Karen Kares" for you!
Here’s what you can expect when working with me:
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3. **Honest Guidance:** Expect 100% transparency from me. I’m here to provide honest, professional insights—even if it’s not what you want to hear.
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5. **Aggressive Marketing:** If you're selling, your property will receive maximum exposure on every platform available, with a comprehensive MLS listing that reaches the right buyers.
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7. **Contract Clarity:** If contracts feel intimidating, I’ll walk you through each detail, ensuring you understand everything. Take your time; I’m here to help.
8. **Guided Decision-Making:** If you’re uncertain about the process or lack a pre-approval, I’ll help clarify your goals, ensuring no one pressures you into a decision.
9. **Strong Relationships:** Real estate is about collaboration. I prioritize communication to keep you informed and protect your interests with dedicated representation you can trust.
10. **Transparency and Integrity:** I value transparency and efficiency, focusing on straightforward, calculated steps to achieve the best outcomes without gimmicks.
11. **Passionate Service:** I love what I do, and I work tirelessly to get you the results you want. Each transaction is unique, but my dedication remains the same. I’m here to make your real estate experience rewarding and enjoyable, working hard to ensure you’re satisfied with my service.
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.
