Rayburn Township, where the Allegheny River meanders along its western side, lies tucked away in the middle of Armstrong County's Kittanning. The area is surrounded by the sounds of the gentle murmur of Cowanshannock Creek winding through the Pittsburgh suburb before it drains into the mighty Allegheny River. Although Kittanning was surrounded by factories, mines and mills in the early 20th century, like many areas in the Western Pennsylvania region, many of the big companies the town was established around had closed by the 1950s. Rather than industrial giants, local eateries and businesses, like a 911 call center, glass factory and Penn State Extension Office, now dot the community's streets. A disadvantage to living in the township is the tax prices — the area is one of the highest-taxed communities in Western Pennsylvania. “Taxes are high,” says Sandy Bracken, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway. For some homebuyers, though, the high taxes are not an issue. “People who want to live here, live here.” According to Kody Flanders of Hometown Properties Inc., most neighbors know each other and the residents love to take advantage of all of the outdoor activities the river has to offer, including boating, fishing and hunting. “It has the best of both worlds,” Flanders says. “The big appeal is that it is very rural, has a country laid-back feel, but is only 45 minutes from Pittsburgh. It’s not stranded from civilization. People can take advantage of what the city has to offer.”
Anglers and boaters will love the easy access to the Allegheny River in Rayburn Township.
Rayburn Township sits along the Allegheny River.
1/2
Some homes date back to the 1850s
The area's rustic nature has a big influence on Rayburn and Kittanning's appearance, but so does historic architecture — the majority of properties, many either brick and/or two-story, were constructed in the early 1900s, with some even going back to the 1850s. There are many different types of homes in this township, such as craftsman bungalows, foursquare colonials, shotgun houses and farmhouses. In Kittanning, the riverfront is lined with grid streets — closer to Rayburn Township, the landscape changes to meandering country lanes. In Rayburn, prices can range from $24,000 to $378,000, but there are outliers. About $420,000 can get a four-bedroom, three-bath home on a two-acre lot, while $300,000 can land a three-bedroom, two-bath home with a deck. The CAP Index crime score for the area is 3 out of 10, below the national average of 4. This low crime score might have a bit of symbolism — ironically enough, the FX drama "Justified," a show about the exploits of a United States Marshal Service deputy, was filmed in Kittanning.
Homes in Rayburn are often older construction and were built in the middle of last century.
Bungalows are another popular choice for homebuyers in Rayburn.
1/2
Twenty sports offered at high school
Local students can attend school on a newly renovated campus shared by West Hills Primary and West Hills Intermediate — both rated by Niche with a B-minus. They can then advance to Armstrong Junior/Senior High, which is rated by Niche with a C overall and a B for its teachers, clubs and activities. There are nearly 20 boys' and girls' team sports offered yearly for students. There are eight local colleges and universities near the community, including Indiana University of Pennsylvania at Northpointe.
West Hills Primary School is a great place for young minds to learn and grow.
Armstrong Junior/Senior High School has great sports programs and a stunning campus.
1/2
Buttermilk Falls is a hub for water activities
Rayburn is home to Buttermilk Falls, one of the most popular spots to hike to in Armstrong County. “I used to go to Buttermilk Falls in high school,” says Larry Richardson, a zoning officer in the neighboring township of East Franklin. “It’s so much fun. Definitely a country setting. There are rocks where people lay out in the sun, then there’s the waterfall and a swimming hole. When I bought my daughter a quad, we rode over there. People ride those a lot through the woods.” Located less than two miles down the Cowanshannock Trail in the lush woods of Rayburn, Buttermilk Falls is a peaceful outdoor space. Bracken says on any given day, Buttermilk Falls is buzzing with activity. The Cowanshannock River forests are home to both recognized and unidentified paths. Moreover, a public green space known as Riverfront Park is situated on the banks of the river and next to the pedestrian-friendly bridge. This little property is popular for fishing, neighborhood get-togethers and relaxing while admiring the amazing river views. Travelers often get to the river either before or after completing the 36 miles of the paved Armstrong Trail, which traces the river through beautiful deep riverbank forests and south Kittanning, Manorville and Ford City. And, the township is anchored by the Allegheny River, which, Bracken says, is always brimming with various water-related activities like boating and fishing.
Head to Buttermilk Falls to explore the beauty it has to offer.
The Armstrong Trail in Boggs runs along the Allegheny River and is a popular spot for hikers.
1/2
Lots of shopping and dining options
Taking in a meal out on the town could mean riverfront dining in nearby Kittanning and Wick City, with options including Vocelli Pizza, A Mano Eatery and Old House of Hunan. Another riverfront stop, Allegheny Mariner, offers fine dining and live music and patrons can boat up to the restaurant. Set near the Kittanning Citizen Bridge near the river, Old Wood Tavern offers cold beers while a DJ spins some tunes or locals try to channel their inner Taylor Swift during karaoke. Folks can find all kinds of shopping options in Hilltop Plaza and Franklin Village Mall, both located off Westgate Drive.
A Mano Eatery has delicious pastries and also serves dinner in Rayburn Township.
The Allegheny Mariner is a very popular spot in Rayburn Township for a delicious dinner.
1/2
Bus service offered
Town & Country Transit is the public transportation provider for the greater Kittanning area. Thanks to Route 28, which is located five miles down Route 422, drivers can reach Pittsburgh, a 41-mile trip, in around one hour. A journey west on Route 422 takes many locals to Butler County, where some travel to work. There are three airports within 60 miles of the community: Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, DuBois Regional Airport and Pittsburgh International Airport.
Photography Contributed By
Conner Baker
Video By
Maurice Boone
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
John Marzullo,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Discover the perfect blend of country charm, modern comfort and endless opportunity on this beautiful 50 acre property, while remaining close to major highways and amenities. Whether you're dreaming of a hobby farm, equestrian estate or hunting retreat this exceptional property offers it all. The beautifully updated main farmhouse combines timeless character and modern conveniences. This move -in
Welcome to 1020 Skyline Drive, Kittanning, PA — a very spacious home offering approximately 3,136 square feet of living space on a peaceful 0.65-acre lot. Priced at $285,000, this property offers tremendous value for buyers looking for space, comfort, and upside. The home is outdated but move-in ready, making it a perfect fit for a first-time homebuyer or investor who wants a solid property they
Lush, beautifully wooded lot with access along Cadogen Slatelick Road. This scenic property offers the perfect setting to build your dream home, create private riding trails, enjoy horseback riding, or establish a peaceful hunting retreat. A rare opportunity to own a versatile piece of land with endless potential.
A rural triplex that may be able to be converted into a single family home. Nice level lot with plenty of parking. Country living at it's best. Needs work and your imagination!
Newly remodeled. Spacious rooms with all updated interior trim and paint. Large front porch and enclosed 3 seasons back porch. Off street parking at rear of home for up to 2 cars. Separate basement access and storage. Spacious kitchen with lots of counter space. Refrigerator and stove included. Kitchen pass through to dining room allows for easy entertainment. Huge living and dining rooms. Three
Kathryn Burns-ConferHOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES
Step Inside this beautifully updated home featuring newly refreshed interiors and a smooth layout The Kitchen is a showstopper with stunning green cupboards and elegant gold accent handles, adding a touch of modern sophistication. Enjoy your morning coffee or evening relaxation on the small covered porch. Low manteniente backyard with minimal upkeep. Conveniently Located in Kittanning everything
Every inch of this home has been thoughtfully reimagined—just unpack and start making memories. Filled with natural sunlight and soaring ceilings, this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-full-bath home was taken down to the studs and rebuilt with today’s buyer in mind. The stunning brand-new kitchen is the heart of the home, complemented by spacious bedrooms and stylish updates throughout. Enjoy
Laney SarverBERKSHIRE HATHAWAY THE PREFERRED REALTY
Two-story 4-bedroom, 1-bath home in Kittanning currently used as a rental property. This spacious home offers a practical layout with multiple bedrooms that make it attractive for tenants. The durable metal roof adds long-term value and helps minimize future maintenance costs. Whether you’re looking to expand your rental portfolio or purchase a property with income potential, this home presents a
Opportunity awaits in Kittanning Borough in Armstrong County! This single-family home offers great potential for investors, renovators, or buyers looking to build equity with a little vision and TLC. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, the home provides a flexible layout with plenty of space to reimagine and update to your taste. The property includes off-street parking, adding convenience for
Welcome home to this spacious and character-filled 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment in the heart of Kittanning. Offering a unique blend of vintage charm and generous living space, this apartment features large rooms, abundant natural light, and plenty of storage throughout.The oversized living room is filled with sunlight from three large windows, creating a warm and inviting space to relax or
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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.
