From Scenic Beauty to Saving Some Pennies: Here's Why South Central Pennsylvania Shines

Over the past few years, Adams, York, and Franklin counties have become extremely desirable for homebuyers moving from neighboring states to take advantage of all that Pennsylvania has to offer. Whether it’s the lower cost of living, tax benefits, proximity to large cities, or year-long activities, this state has something for everyone! Today, we’ll dive into the allure of living in these three counties located in South Central Pennsylvania.

About the Counties

Adams, York, and Franklin counties of Pennsylvania are in the South-Central region of the state. Because of its location in the northeast, it’s a great place to experience all four seasons! Pennsylvania also has beautiful landscapes such as: mountains, rural flatlands, lakes, and more. While this region is known for it’s lush agricultural industry, it is also one of the fastest growing areas in terms of economic and business development in the state. With thriving cities and quaint country towns, these counties are rich with history, natural beauty, cultural diversity, and economic opportunity.

Lower Cost of Living

The south-central region of Pennsylvania has around a 5% lower cost of living when compared to the national average. Cost of living calculations often include taxes, housing, health care, and food costs. Pennsylvania’s average cost of living being lower than the national cost of living makes it an ideal state to relocate to, especially for young families looking to build their dream home.

Tax Benefits

Pennsylvania offers many tax benefits for both families and retirees. Retirement income, such as Social Security and pensions for those aged 60 and above, are not taxable, which is why so many empty nesters are moving to Pennsylvania. In fact, Harrisburg, PA was recently named the best place to retire by U.S. News & World Report. Unlike most states, Pennsylvania has a flat income tax rate of 3.07%. Compared to the average national income tax rate of 14.9%, Pennsylvania’s rate is a steal! Pennsylvania’s sale tax is 6%, which is average, but groceries, prescription drugs, and clothing are tax-exempt. These savings add up for large families on a tight budget.

Proximity to Large Cities

Adams, York, and Franklin counties are all located within a 1-2 hour car ride from three major cities: Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. These cities provide immense opportunity for those who can work some days from home or don’t mind a commute. Job opportunities are plentiful, while living in a lower-cost area provides families with more disposable income.

One of the greatest things about living in South Central Pennsylvania is the opportunity for day and weekend trips in any direction. Whether you’re looking for relaxation at the beaches, the adrenaline of mountain activities, or the cultural draw of the city, you’re just a couple hours away from it all. And if you prefer staying closer to home, your calendar can be filled with a variety of exciting excursions right in these three counties.

Adams County Activities and Sites to Visit:

• Gettysburg: If history is your thing, this is the place to be--tour these hallowed grounds by bus, car, foot, horseback or even segways; meet Abe Lincoln or dine with ghosts; or just explore the eclectic shops and markets in this quaint, unforgettable town!
• Farmers Markets: Browse the countless farmers markets that occur all year long throughout the county and right in our Amblebrook community! These markets have something for all tastes. Whether that be farmfresh meats, homemade bread, or hand-picked fruits and veggies, you can find it all.
• Adams County Winery: Experience one of Pennsylvania’s oldest wineries. Tour the lush vineyards and orchards while enjoying a homemade glass of wine. Adams County Winery offers many events that will host the perfect outing.

York County Activities and Sites to Visit:

• Gifford Pinchot State Park: This 2,338-acre park has everything you could want; kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, fishing, disc golf, and more! Open all year, this park offers something for everyone!
• Roundtop Mountain Resort: Hit the slopes at Roundtop Mountain Resort! Although it is open year-round, this resort is recognized for its skiing and snowboarding in the colder months. However, during the spring and summer months, Roundtop has paintball courses and summer camps! This resort offers the perfect for activity for families in York County!
• Downtown York: Immerse yourself in York’s downtown area which contains something for everyone! Experience factory tours, art galleries, museums, libraries, parks, theaters, and more! Downtown York offers family-friendly activities, which are perfect for young families.

Franklin County Activities and Sites to Visit:

• Black-Coffey Caverns: Explore an extremely unique cavern system, accessible only through the basement of someone’s house! Black-Coffey Caverns was open to the public from 1932 to 1954 and then closed for many years. It was not until 2021 that it was reopened and now is available to tour!
• Mont Alto State Park: Discover what this 24-acre park has to offer! Mont Alto State Park is the oldest park in the Pennsylvania state park system, offering many hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas!
• Country Creek Produce Farm: Pick and farm your own fresh produce! Country Creek Produce Farm hosts many events, including creating your own farm fresh produce box and picking strawberries. They also have fall and winter events, such as corn mazes, pumpkin picking, and a trail of lights tour. Country Creek Produce Farm provides family-friendly fun all year long!

Let Us Help You!

Pennsylvania has everything you could want in your home state: beautiful scenery, tax benefits, and immense opportunities. Let us help you build your dream home here!

Caruso Homes at Amblebrook offers gorgeous homes, world-class amenities and unlimited social opportunities for those who desire a healthy and active "after 55" lifestyle. Located in Gettysburg, life at Amblebrook offers every luxurious amenity you could want--and many you never knew you needed.

For families looking to relocate to the South Central Pennsylvania region, our On Your Lot Program offers the flexibility to build the home of your dreams in the location of your choice. Whether you already have land, or want to choose from one of our featured land listings, we can build one of our award-winning floor plans to meet your budget and lifestyle. With Caruso Homes, you can design and build your future home with all the features you could possibly desire. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Get started today! Give Caruso Homes a call at (301) 517-7314, email us at info@carusohomes.com or find us on Instagram @carusohomesinc and Facebook.