Rolling hills and lifelong neighbors define Waynesburg
Waynesburg is a rural borough within the rolling hills and valleys of the Allegheny Plateau in Western Pennsylvania. “It has small-town charm with scenic surroundings,” says Amber Harbarger of Re/Max Select Realty, a Realtor who grew up in Greene County. “Most of these people are born and raised here and live here their whole lives, and then their family inherits their property." The borough was incorporated in 1816 but was formed in the late 1700s as the seat of Greene County. It grew progressively through sheep farming, coal and oil. Today, natural gas and Waynesburg University, which is located here, are key drivers of its economy. A small school system, quaint downtown and signature Rain Day Festival rooted in quirky history add to Waynesburg’s character. Residents live in vintage homes where life runs slower despite having a college at the borough's heart. For a change of pace, Morgantown, West Virginia, is less than 30 miles away, and Pittsburgh is within 60 miles.
Vintage styles and forested hills shape the neighborhood feel
The oldest homes in Waynesburg date back to the late 1800s. American Foursquares mingle with Victorians, Colonial Revivals, bungalows and minimal traditional cottages along gridded streets. Narrow sidewalks wind past small lots shaded by trees, bordering roads edged with powerlines and parked cars. Forested hills rise in the distance, changing to a patchwork of fiery golds and russet reds in autumn. On the outskirts of the borough, homes showcase newer styles, such as Cape Cod and ranch-style, and may be on acres. Prices typically range from $100,000 to $350,000. However, teardowns and fixer-uppers start from $15,000 and newer homes on the outskirts of town reach upward of $430,000.
Career training and a university near local public schools
Students are part of Central Greene School District. They may begin at Waynesburg Central Elementary School for kindergarten through sixth grade before heading to Waynesburg Central High School. The elementary school earns a C rating on Niche, and the high school gets a C plus. Both schools are in town, conveniently located on the same road alongside Greene County Career & Technology Center. Waynesburg University, a private Christian college, is centrally located. It features small class sizes and over 70 major concentrations, a range of graduate programs and online study options.
Coffee, burgers and global flavors mix with small-town shops
Downtown Waynesburg has an array of local businesses. Burgers and More is a casual spot to grab everything from a Texas Patty Melt to a sloppy Joe with a side. RGB Coffee roasts its beans in Waynesburg. The coffee shop also serves a variety of treats, baked goods, smoothies and ice cream. Don Patron Waynesburg, for Mexican, and New Lam’s Garden, a Chinese restaurant, add to the mix. Retailers include Wayne Lumber & Supply, Joe Riggs’ Sporting Goods and Mickey’s Men’s Store. Sheetz, Walmart Supercenter and Aldi are on the fringes of town. People head into Washington, Uniontown and Morgantown for more options — all within a 30-to-40-minute drive.
Parks with history, passive space and recreation
Waynesburg’s central greenbelt stretches south of the university, where five passive parks link together. Gazebos and benches dot these parks, inviting residents to linger. One of these parks, College Park, centers around a historic fountain and was built in the 1920s as a quiet study retreat for students. Another, Monument Park, stands out with its 65-foot memorial to Civil War soldiers and sailors. Waynesburg Playground has two play areas for different ages, plus a skate park and ballfield. Nearby is Wiley Stadium, home to university football games. South Fork Tenmile Creek flows along the city’s edge, providing spots for fishing and kayaking. About 20 miles away, Ryerson Station State Park covers 1,160 acres, offering a swimming pool, camping, trails, and winter recreation like skiing and sledding.
When it rains in Waynesburg
Each July, Waynesburg comes alive with its signature Rain Day Festival — a tradition steeped in local history. The origins trace back over a century to a farmer's observation that it always seemed to rain on his birthday. “People try to guess when the first raindrop will fall on that day, and a drawing is held. Sometimes it rains, and sometimes it doesn't," Harbarger says. The event features live music, vendors and contests, including competing for Miss Rain Day. Miss Rain Day continues earning her crown throughout the year through public service. It has rained for 119 out of the 152 years this event has been held.
Commuters use I-79 and bus service to reach Morgantown
Waynesburg is just a few miles from Interstate 79, a major north-south route linking West Virginia and Pennsylvania. “I know many people from Waynesburg hop on the interstate and head to Morgantown for work daily,” Harbarger says. Mountain Line Transit Authority also connects Waynesburg to Morgantown, making three daily trips. Greene County offers shared ride services for seniors and people with disabilities.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
