Jackson Township Mercer is a laid-back farming community
Characterized by its slow pace of life and agricultural roots, Jackson Township Mercer offers laid-back living in The Keystone State’s rural northwestern region. “It’s typical small-town Pennsylvania,” says Lisa Miller, a former resident who owns and runs Locks of Serendipity Hair Studio in the community. “It’s quiet here, and most people know one another. Locals here like the tight-knit feel, but are welcoming to new people moving to the area.” Though somewhat secluded, the townships' residents have access to big-box comforts and abundant recreation options, from hunting on local farms to day trips out to Lake Wilhelm.
Outdoor recreation includes a local park, hunting and Lake Wilhelm
There are several recreation options in and around Jackson Township Mercer. Wes McAfoose Community Park has a playground, basketball court and open space for pick-up games and picnics. Nearby State Game Lands No. 130 allows turkey and deer hunting during specified seasons. “Hunting is big in the area, and local farmers will also let people they know come onto their land and hunt.” Similarly, Lake Latonka is a private spot, but Miller says friends of friends welcome those not living in the subdivision to spend time on the water. Lake Wilhelm, 15 miles north, is open to the public. As part of the Maurice K. Goddard State Park, the lake has campgrounds, fishing facilities and an expansive hiking trail along the waterfront.
Rural roads lead to forested lots and multi-acre properties
Buyers will mostly find single-family homes ranging from vintage farmhouses to mid-to-late 20th-century ranch and New Traditional styles. These sit back from hilly, narrow residential roads, and are framed by pockets of lush forest or sprawling corn and soybean fields. Detached garages or barns are common, and plots in the area’s more rural outer portions can comprise multiple acres. Depending on size and condition, most homes sell between $100,000 and $300,000. However, Lake Latonka on the community’s western side has a namesake subdivision, where large custom or waterfront properties with private piers can exceed $700,000 and sell up to $1.8 million. The township also has a CAP Index Crime Score of 1 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
Residents dine locally in town and run errands in Grove City
A few restaurants dot Franklin Road, a stretch of U.S. Route 62. Yellow Creek Inn is a family owned spot known for its warm atmosphere and homestyle cooking. Garage Bar and Grill is the local watering hole that serves typical pub grub, with pool tables and sports TVs. Dollar General sits along the corridor and offers daily essentials close to home. While Mercer, 7 miles southwest, has a Walt’s for grocery runs, Miller says many travel to Grove City, a similar distance south, for a more robust selection of retailers, including Walmart and Tractor Supply Co.
Lake View Middle High School students can earn college credits
Students can begin their education at Oakview Elementary School, which has a B-plus on Niche. Lake View Middle High School has a C-plus. The high school offers College in High School courses in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh and Seton Hill University. The program allows enrolled students to get a head start on earning college credits while working toward their diploma.
Trips to Coolspring Maze and Farm Market are a fall staple
A visit to Coolspring Corn Maze and Farm Market is an annual tradition for many. The farm hosts the Mercer County Pumpkin Festival throughout its fall season, from early September through early November. “They have all kinds of fun things for kids,” Miller says. “There’s a corn maze, tall slides and a tractor ride where you can see all the sunflowers and corn.” The farm’s market sells locally sourced produce and goods, including its own beef.
Interstate 79 and Route 62 support regional travel
Interstate 79 cuts through the township, connecting residents to surrounding cities like Erie, 65 miles north, and Pittsburgh, a similar distance south. U.S. Route 62 is also accessible from within the community, serving as the east-west thoroughfare. UMPC Horizon is the nearest hospital in Greenville, 20 miles northwest, and the closest commercial flights take off from Venango Regional Airport, a similar distance northeast.
Written By
Matthew Simmons
