Best Suburbs in York, PA

By Julie Gordey

Jul. 3, 2025 at 3:10 PM CST

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Historic charm meets modern convenience

From colonial architecture and wineries to strong school districts and growing job sectors (education, healthcare, banking), York’s suburbs offer affordability, safety, and charm. From young professionals to families and retirees, also take advantage of great state parks, historic sites and attractions.

Why it matters: You get all the benefits of small‑town living with easy access to city jobs and acreage.

What’s ahead: We’ll highlight the top 10 suburbs—housing, schools, safety stats, perks, and what makes each unique.

1. Grantley

Suburban comfort with city-level schools

Population: 4,762| Median Home: $404K | School Rating: A | Commute: 17 min

  • Housing: Newer single-family homes, townhouses, planned communities

  • Education: Red Lion Area SD; York College & Grit Gym nearby

  • Safety: Low crime

  • Perks: Appell Center, Rocky Ridge Park, historical sites

Why it’s #1: Family-ready neighborhoods with top schools and cultural access

2. Stonybrook

Quiet streets, Hershey perks

Population: 3,662| Median Home: $325K | School Rating: B+ | Commute: 29 min

Why it’s appealing: Suburban peace with chocolate-town attractions half an hour away

3. East York

Affordable charm near the city

Population: 9,555| Median Home: $222K | School Rating: A | Commute: 24 min

  • Housing: Mix of new homes, craftsman-style, townhouses

  • Education: York Suburban SD; proximity to York College

  • Safety: Low crime

  • Perks: Restaurants, shopping, services, easy city access

Why it’s special: A-budget-friendly suburb with A-rated schools and convenience

4. Valley View

Affordable lake life

Population: 2,963| Median Home: $204K | School Rating: A | Commute: 24 min

  • Housing: Modest single-family homes, lake cottages

  • Education: York Suburban SD

  • Safety: Low crime

  • Perks: Memorial Lake State Park (ski, fish, picnic), trails, campsites

Why it’s great: Outdoor recreation bundled with strong schools and low prices

5. Springfield Township

Rolling hills, top-tier schools

Population: 6,145 | Median Home: $314K | School Rating: A- | Commute: 28 min

  • Housing: Established homes, newer subdivisions, parkside lots

  • Education: Spring Grove Area SD

  • Safety: Very low crime

  • Perks: Forested trails, farm stands, family-friendly atmosphere

The draw: Quiet, green suburb with strong schools and scenic landscapes

6. New Freedom

Train-town charm meets craft beer

Population: 5,131| Median Home: $344K | School Rating: A- | Commute: 35 min

Why it shines: Quaint community with rail heritage and farm-fresh flavor

7. Spry

Community-first, history-rich living

Population: 5,237| Median Home: $216K | School Rating: A- | Commute: 20 min

  • Housing: Modest single-family homes, townhomes

  • Education: Dallastown Area SD

  • Safety: Safe environment

  • Perks: Local fairs, history-lined streets, community parks, family vibe

Why it’s noteworthy: Tight-knit, history-loving suburb with strong schools and soul

8. Shrewsbury Township

Southern charm with new-home energy

Population: 7,144| Median Home: $336K | School Rating: A- | Commute: 31 min

  • Housing: New custom builds, suburban lots, ranch-style options

  • Education: Southern York County SD

  • Safety: Low crime

  • Perks: Antique shops, creekside trails, local eateries, close-knit feel

Why it works: Fresh-home inventory, top schools, and charming small-town appeal

9. Hellam Township

Orchards, ice cream, community delight

Population: 5,981| Median Home: $218K | School Rating: B+ | Commute: 29 min

Why it’s loved: arm-fresh living, interactive attractions, and easy affordability

10. North York

Bargain suburb with bright schools

Population: 2,503| Median Home: $121K | School Rating: B+ | Commute: 22 min

  • Housing: Affordable vintage homes, duplexes, starter houses

  • Education: York Suburban SD

  • Safety: Low crime

  • Perks: Budget-friendly, close to shopping, commuter-station links

The allure: Most affordable pick with solid schools and quick city access

The Bottom Line

York’s suburbs deliver affordability, safety, strong schools, and diverse lifestyle perks—from lakeside living to farm-fresh offerings. Whether you’re looking for history-rich charm, new homes, or scenic landscapes, this region is an ideal choice in Pennsylvania.


Julie Gordey

A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator.  After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.