The East Deer Township is close to many amenities
The East Deer Township is a small community on the western banks of the Allegheny River. Sandwiched between the watershed and the expressway, this is an active area, a departure from many of its quieter rural neighbors. "Homes here are more spread out with spacious yards, but very close to amenities," says Jordan Schramm, Realtor at RE/MAX Select Realty and frequent local seller.
Craftsman and American Foursquares from the early 1900s
East Deer's residential roads carve through the region's rugged mountainous terrain, blanketed by thick rows of oaks and maples. Narrow sidewalks trace the neighborhood's main roads, where you'll likely catch your neighbors out for a walk. These aren't your turnkey, cookie-cutter suburban developments. Classic Craftsman styles and American foursquare mix with simple farmhouse designs on these timeworn streets. East Deer listings are consistently advertised as investment opportunities – and for good reason. These historic homes date to the early 1900s, with sturdy structures and character-rich bones. Most properties start at $50,000 for something small and needing TLC. Prices reach around $100,000 for a well-maintained residence. "It's an affordable area where buyers can get a more sizeable home," Schramm says. Lower prices can drive a competitive market; most listings find a new owner within a week or two.
Learning in the Deer Lakes District
East Deer Township students attend school within the Deer Lakes District. Many begin learning at East Union Intermediate, rated B-minus on Niche, continue to Deer Lakes Middle, rated B-minus, and wrap up their studies at Deer Lakes High, rated B. Older students can elect to participate in the A.W. Beattie Career Center's college and career-ready offerings, which can award industry certifications and college credits based on test results.
Waterside walks at River Front Park
After school, residents bring the kids to East Deer Memorial Park for deck hockey or to climb on the playground. River Front Park is the neighborhood go-to for a quiet waterside walk. Enjoy a full day outdoors at Deer Lakes Park, featuring three fishing lakes, a spray park and a disc golf course, among its winding wooded trails. The state fisheries stock the lakes with bluegill, perch, and trout - many residents count on the fish as part of their regular diet. You can tell East Deer is a biking town, with cycles strewn on the sidewalks – unlocked. Prepare for a potentially strenuous ride, as the terrain can get steep here.
East Deer Township has an active social calendar
East Deer Township's population count hovers around 1,000, and the community stays connected primarily through the local Facebook page. Check it out to peruse a constant stream of updates and digital flyers. If the dog runs away or the cable goes out – this is where the neighborhood goes to get support. The administrators also post regular job openings and business advertisements. "They have their fair share of neighborhood events," Schramm says. Residents gather for garage sales and more formal events like the October Wine Dinner at a local winery. The mall is a minute or two down the road and is a hot spot for car shows.
Shopping at the nearby Pittsburgh Mills Mall
Pittsburgh Mills Mall is right around the corner, a bustling commercial area packed with big box stores like Walmart and Lowe's Home Improvement. You'll also find familiar retail labels in a traditional indoor mall setup. With several grocers and big restaurant chains, it's a convenient stop-off for weekly errands. Killians Hardwood Grill is a long-standing local staple, where regulars order the wood-fired menu items like the brisket and ribs. You'll travel across the river for more dining options, several with a relaxing water view. Hop on the expressway and ride all the way into Pittsburgh's city center, roughly 20 miles in the car. City buses also make stops along Freeport Road for those interested in public transportation. For connected community and investment opportunities, check out East Deer Township.
Photography Contributed By
Anna Dukovich