Incorporated in 1841, Sharon is a historic community in the Shenango Valley experiencing a revival. Originally a center for coal mining, Sharon transitioned to an iron and steelmaking industry that fizzled out in the mid-20th century. The dissolution of the steel and iron industries negatively impacted Sharon's economy and population, leading to community disinvestment. Today, the City of Sharon, alongside volunteer-led groups like the Sharon Neighborhood Revitalization Committee, is working to develop strategies that promote city-wide growth. Efforts include the planned development of an aquaponics farming facility, a roof and minor repairs program for low to moderate-income homeowners and a public safety task force. Outside investment in Sharon's housing stock and downtown area has also prompted growth. "Investors have come in and purchased large groups of properties that have been instrumental in the development of Sharon," says Realtor Jim Sarvas of More Options Realty. Sarvas has lived in Sharon for most of his life and has spent the last 15 years of his professional career as a licensed Realtor. "Increased investment has fostered more downtown traffic, new businesses and community interest. We are back up as a community."
Established homes in need of repairs
Houses in Sharon are priced as low as $30,000, often because they need repairs and updates. "Many people come here because you get more for your money. Houses in Sharon offer less money per square foot than many areas of the country," Sarvas says. "Many investors have purchased properties to flip them, and then sell or rent." Several homes purchased for renovation are often classic four squares and bungalows. Buyers will also find a mix of mid-20th century colonials, ranch styles and cape cods, mostly with three bedrooms on quarter-acre lots. Homes in good condition can be priced upwards of $350,000. Sharon streets are lined with sidewalks, and locals often enjoy an evening stroll.
Sharon has a revitalized downtown area with ample restaurants and businesses
Downtown Sharon is a growing corridor, with new businesses cropping along State Street and Sharpsville Avenue. "Just a few years ago, I counted 26 vacant storefronts downtown. Since then, 18 have been filled with small businesses and retailers," Sarvas says. "The downtown development director has done a great job of looking for and recruiting new businesses to set up shop in Sharon's center." Elephant #8 is a new trendy spot for dinner where locals enjoy various Thai dishes. Julian's Bar and Grille opened in 2023, offering locals a new place for burgers, salads and wraps. Existing businesses, like Croaker's Brewing Company, have been afforded funds from the city to expand further. Croaker's features an eclectic list of beers, from a Blackberry and Marshmallow sour to a cream ale, hosting frequent events like Trivia Tuesdays. For shopping, locals head to Hermitage Towne Plaza to grab groceries at Giant Eagle or browse the racks at TJ Maxx.
Sharon brings the heat to the Shenango
Sharon is home to the WaterFire Festival, a bi-annual celebration of the arts. The festival's main draw is a multi-sensory performance event on the Shenango River that features fire art installations with musicians performing from boats. "Between 20,000 and 25,000 people come to Sharon in a single day, all for the WaterFire festival," Sarvas says.
Locals at Buhl and along the Shenango
When locals want to enjoy a day outside, they'll likely head to Buhl Park, a 270-acre natural area with various outdoor amenities. Families bring their kids to Polly's Playground, enjoy a walk by Lake Julia or bike the park's ample trails. Locals also bring their pups to the Paws Place dog park or play a round of golf on America's only free nine-hole course. Since the Shenango River is so close, locals often hit the water to boat or fish. Against the Shenango Dam, the Shenango River Lake is a popular spot for fishing.
Sharon City Schools offer various academic resources
Students in Sharon attend schools in the Sharon City School District, which earned an overall C-plus on Niche. Kids typically kickstart their education at Case Avenue Elementary School, which got a C-plus on Niche and has a student-to-teacher ratio of 12-to-1. Students progress to Sharon Middle School, which scored a four out of 10 overall on GreatSchools. The middle school shares a campus with Sharon High School, where local students earn their degrees. The high school features various academic resources like daily tutoring, dual enrollment courses and scholarship application guidance. The high school earned an overall B on Niche.
Shuttling the Shenango Valley
Sharon residents primarily drive, but they can access the Shenango Valley Shuttle Service to reach other spots in the Shenango Valley. The shuttle connects locals to the Shenango Mall, Sharpsville and the State Street Corridor. Sharon is an equal distance from Cleveland and Pittsburgh, making for a 70-mile trip to either metropolitan area. If traveling, drivers hop on Highway 62 or Highway 718.
![Edward Debono]()
Photography Contributed By
Edward Debono
