Vanport

Historical architecture and waterfront living await in this peaceful outer borough. Vanport Township is one of northern Pittsburgh's rural river towns, separated from busier areas by the Ohio River's watery expanse. The old pottery port has held on to its historic charm, most prominently featured in its early 20th-century residences. “It’s a little ways out there, farther from the bustle of Pittsburgh,” says Michael Pohlot, Realtor at Janus Realty Advisors and regular local seller.

If you're buying in Vanport, you will likely land in something at least 100 years old. These storied properties are notably well-maintained, as this enclave sits closest to many of the region's commercial hot spots, feeding a secure local economy. If architectural features like original flooring and crown molding are on your list, you'll find them here. Elaborate Victorians mix with stately Colonials and gambrel-roofed cottages on Vanport's quiet, sidewalk-lined streets. You'll spend anywhere from $100,000 to $750,000, depending on the size and condition of the home. Listings typically stick around for a few months before finding a new owner.

Many Vanport kids attend school within the Beaver Area District. College Square Elementary is the first stop, followed by Beaver Area Middle and Senior High. Each top-rated school has an overall score of B or higher on Niche. Lots of high schoolers opt to enroll in at least one advanced placement course, and most participate in a sport or two. Buyers interested in an alternative route to education will find a handful of private schools nearby to explore.

Linn Park is your nearest outdoor getaway. The riverfront spot has a simple grassy setup with benches and a playground for the kids. Continue east along the train tracks to Bridgewater Crossing for a waterside walk and to watch the fireworks during the Independence Day show. Brady's Run Park's sprawling grounds are minutes away, filled with mountain bikers, fishers and hikers. Residents also bring the kids to take a dip in the lake during Pittsburgh's warmer months.

There's a lot of community pride here. The township coordinates regular events, including the popular annual fall festival. These close-knit neighbors band together to keep the town running. The fire department is going on 100 years, serviced by 40-some loyal volunteers. Vanport is also reportedly one of the safest townships in Beaver County, with 24-hour surveillance by the Beaver Police Department.

Vanport residents visit downtown Beaver for shopping and dining. Stop in at Waffles INCaffeinated for your morning fix and something sweet, and duck into Wildwood Boutique for new threads. Beaver Supermarket is also on the main drag for your weekly shops. You'll cross the Ohio River to visit Township Marketplace's big box stores like Target and Lowe's Home Improvement. Beaver Valley Mall is an indoor shopping mall next door, packed with clothing stores. “Monaca is also nearby – another bigger town with restaurants and businesses,” Pohlot says.

Interstate 376 is your way in and out of town, and Vanport locals have immediate access. Some locals ride all the way into downtown Pittsburgh for a day at the office, a 30-mile ride. “You can get to the city quickly from here,” Pohlot says. Non-driving residents can hop on a Beaver County bus at any of the stops lining 3rd Street for a car-free ride around town. Heritage Valley Beaver is among the area's major local employers and is just a few minutes away. Residents can also find work in the regional school systems and within the growing service industry. Welcome home to small-town living on the Ohio River in Vanport.

Written By

Caeleigh Griffin

Photography Contributed By

Jay Ratchford

Video By

Anthony Pesa