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
Housing: Suburban single-family homes, lawns, cul-de-sacs
Education: Springettsbury SD; close to Penn State York campus
Safety: Low property and violent crime
Perks: Hershey Park, Zoo America, Springettsbury Park
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
Housing: Historic homes, new builds, mixed-density neighborhoods
Education: South Eastern SD
Safety: Low crime
Perks: Northern Central Railway, farmer’s market, Gunpowder Falls Brewery
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
Housing: Affordable homes, starter lots, few new developments
Education: West York Area SD
Safety: Safe area
Perks: Turkey Hill Experience, Flinchbaugh’s Orchard, farm markets
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.