With a population of just over 1,800 residents, the tiny enclave of York County’s Jacobus has its own vibe of serenity and calm. "Jacobus is a great place to live for people who want a small-town feel with easy access to all the amenities of a larger city,” says Realtor Stephanie Gray. “The community is very friendly and welcoming and there are plenty of activities and events to keep you busy. The schools are also top-notch and the housing market is very affordable."
But it’s the endless opportunities to look at nature, be in nature and nurture nature that is the main lure of this small town. “Everywhere you look, there’s a natural tapestry of art that changes almost daily,” says Gray. “There’s something about Jacobus that just gives you a little peace.”
A broad landscape of housing options
Jacobus offers a diverse range of housing options – from colorful personalized abodes and well-maintained single-family homes to Gothic and colonial revival styles to split levels and raised ranches. Most homes in Jacobus are single-family dwellings, ranging from modest ranch-style homes to shuttered farmhouses. The median home value in Jacobus is around $200,000. Houses, which line the streets with a respectful distance between neighbors and often personalized lawn pieces, range in price from $170,000 to $379,000.
Local district nurtures young minds
Jacobus is served by the Dallastown Area School District, which is known for its academic excellence. The district's schools have consistently received high ratings from Niche. Dallastown Area Middle School offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for high school success. Niche gave the school an A-minus overall grade. Dallastown Area Senior High School offers various academic and extracurricular programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, sports teams and clubs. Niche gave the school an A-minus overall grade. And Loganville-Springfield Elementary School provides a nurturing environment that fosters a love of learning. Niche gave the school an A overall grade.
A haven for outdoor enthusiasts
Jacobus is home to several parks that not only provide opportunities for outdoor recreation but even more opportunities just to sit back and appreciate nature’s beauty. Jacobus Park features a playground, walking trails and a picnic area, making it a popular spot for families and gatherings. Meanwhile, Richard Nixon County Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing and boating. The park is also home to the Nixon Park Nature Center, which offers educational exhibits and programs about the local environment. It also provides trails for serene walks that allow visitors to appreciate the outdoors.
Good eats and sweet antiques
Jacobus offers a diverse selection of shops and restaurants. Paesano's Pizza is a favorite place to go for the hot pie. Owners can be seen making and baking the pizza themselves – preparing their specialty pizzas and made-to-order pies. The family-owned pizzeria also serves pasta dishes and salads. Southern Sweets is the perfect place to enjoy a hot cup of joe with a sweet treat. The bakery offers a variety of cakes, pies, cookies, pastries and a place to catch up with friends. For shopping convenience, Rutter’s is a convenience store and gas station perfect for a quick bite and gas, but for bigger shopping stores, residents travel a little further out of the town. But, there are neat little stores like Jacobus' Grey Beard Antiques and Collectibles. The antique shop is a treasure trove of unique and interesting items.
Events year-round at Village Library
Jacobus may be a small town, but it offers a surprising variety of things to do. In addition to the year-round outdoor activities found and the parks and nature center, the Village Library offers a wide selection of books, magazines and audiobooks, as well as a variety of programs and events for all ages. Throughout the year, Jacobus hosts many community events, including fall festivals, holiday concerts and parades. These events provide an opportunity to connect with neighbors and enjoy the spirit of the community
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Photography Contributed By
Chris Pirone
