South Hanover Township offers peaceful living with amenities nearby
Convenience, balance and quality of life attract residents to South Hanover Township. “South Hanover has what buyers want: the charm of small-town living with the perks of big-city proximity,” says Joy Daniels, broker and owner of Joy Daniels Real Estate. “The scenery is beautiful, the air is clear, the skies are often blue and there is minimal traffic.” Additionally, locals have access to well-rated schools and proximity to shopping and dining. The set back location puts residents about 3 miles from Hershey (and the infamous Hersheypark) and 11 miles from Harrisburg, blending urban and rural spaces to create a unique atmosphere while staying within reach of modern amenities. “I was always grateful for the last 10 minutes of my ride home over quiet country roads,” says Daniels, who lived in the township for 32 years. “Of course I had to be careful of deer, but it was worth it! I loved hearing the cicada, the rustling of the leaves and the actual quiet of the township.”
Spacious lots and varied home styles across the township
Homes sit on spacious lots or cluster in developments along residential streets of South Hanover Township; some areas have a more close-knit suburban feel while others sit more isolated in rural corners. Most houses emanate a classic New England architectural style, with Cape Cods, colonials and bungalows common. Newer developments built in the last 20 years feature more contemporary styles, especially New Traditional homes with stone siding and timbering details. These new builds often boast spacious layouts and custom features. Townhouses, carriage homes and condos round out the housing inventory. While fixer-uppers can price as low as $50,000, turnkey homes typically start around $235,000. Large, stately homes may fetch up to $1.7 million. The average home value hovers around $443,000.
Strong schools in Lower Dauphin School District
Daniels says the area’s strong school district is another pull to South Hanover Township. Students may attend schools within the Lower Dauphin School District, which earns a B overall grade from Niche. South Hanover Elementary School, which receives a B-plus score, teaches kids in prekindergarten through fifth grade. Pupils may continue to Lower Dauphin Middle and Lower Dauphin High School, both of which get B scores from Niche. Along with a robust academic curriculum, Lower Dauphin High School also offers a diverse athletic program, which includes top-performing teams like lacrosse, soccer and swimming.
Outdoor recreation along Swatara Creek
Green spaces scattered around the township and beyond allow locals to get out into the Pennsylvania landscape. Swatara Creek Park features a playground and pavilions along the water, as well as short hiking trails ideal for walking canine companions. The park also has a few multi-purpose fields; additional athletic fields are found at Keller Field at Swatara Creek. Nearby golf courses like Deer Valley Golf Course offer premier experiences for golfers. Local attractions include Hersheypark and Zoo America.
Proximity to nearby towns provide access to shopping and dining
Proximity to Hershey and Harrisburg put South Hanover Township residents close to convenient shopping centers and retail choices. Hershey Square Shopping Center houses a T.J. Maxx, Weiss Markets and various fast-food chains like Panera and Applebee’s. Other grocery options include GIANT and Target. Nearby shopping centers in Paxton and Harrisburg provide access to additional national chains and big-box retailers. Locals frequent favorite establishments such as Rubber Soul Brewing Company and Soda Jerk Diner & Dairy Bar in Hummelstown to the south. Tanger Outlets in Hershey also have a slew of familiar name brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Anne Taylor and more.
Most residents drive, with major routes minutes away
Daniels emphasizes that accessibility and convenience helps seal the deal for homebuyers. “South Hanover Township is defined by its balanced lifestyle,” she says. “With its strong economy, convenient access to major job markets and a great commuter location, it’s no surprise more buyers are setting their sights here.” Most township residents rely on cars for transportation. Easy access to Routes 81 and 83 keeps locals connected to surrounding communities, and Harrisburg International Airport is about 10 miles away. Doctors and health workers also find the proximity to Hershey Medical Center and the UPMC Hospitals very appealing, Daniels adds.
![Christina von Claparede-Crola]()
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
