Central Pennsylvania is an ideal place to call home, offering a mix of suburban amenities, rural beauty, and exceptional schools. Families relocating to the area can choose from diverse environments, each with its own unique character and opportunities. With excellent school districts in Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry Counties, this region provides quality education and vibrant community life. Below is a closer look at what each county has to offer, along with the school districts that make them stand out.
Cumberland County
Cumberland County is known for its suburban charm, family-friendly neighborhoods, and access to modern conveniences. This area provides an outstanding quality of life, with well-maintained parks and recreational facilities and proximity to shopping, dining, and cultural activities.
Cumberland Valley School District
Cumberland Valley School District (CVSD) is the largest district in the county, serving Hampden, Monroe, Middlesex, and Silver Spring Townships. Known for its academic excellence, CVSD educates over 10,000 students across eight elementary schools, two middle schools, a ninth-grade academy, and a high school.
The district emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability in its curriculum, preparing students for college and future careers. CVSD has earned several accolades, including National Blue Ribbon School awards, recognizing its schools for outstanding academic performance and innovation. Its extracurricular offerings are extensive, with a strong emphasis on music, arts, athletics, and STEM programs. Families value CVSD for its supportive community, comprehensive resources, and dedication to fostering student success.
Carlisle Area School District
The Carlisle Area School District serves the historic borough of Carlisle and surrounding townships. Known for its diverse student body and rich educational programs, the district focuses on preparing students for life beyond high school with a blend of academic rigor and vocational training.
Carlisle schools offer advanced placement courses, dual-enrollment programs, and career and technical education opportunities that ensure students are well-prepared for college or the workforce. The district also has a robust arts program, including music, theater, and visual arts, as well as competitive athletic teams. Carlisle’s community-centered approach fosters strong ties between schools and families, making it a cherished part of the county.
Camp Hill School District
The Camp Hill School District serves the small borough of Camp Hill, offering a close-knit and personalized educational experience. With its small size, the district provides an intimate learning environment where teachers can focus on individual student needs.
Camp Hill is consistently ranked among the best school districts in Pennsylvania thanks to its strong academic performance, high graduation rates, and college preparation programs. Students benefit from small class sizes, advanced placement options, and a variety of extracurricular activities, including competitive sports, music, and leadership organizations. The district’s strong emphasis on community involvement and civic engagement makes it a standout choice for families looking for a supportive and academically rigorous environment.
West Shore School District
West Shore School District is one of the largest districts in the area, spanning parts of Cumberland and York Counties. It serves a mix of suburban and semi-rural communities, providing education to students in several municipalities, including Lemoyne, New Cumberland, and Wormleysburg.
The district is known for its focus on innovation and preparing students for the future through its STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) initiatives. With two high schools, three middle schools, and numerous elementary schools, West Shore offers a broad curriculum that includes advanced placement courses, career readiness programs, and extracurricular activities like athletics and performing arts. Its commitment to inclusivity and fostering a sense of belonging among students ensures a positive educational experience.
East Pennsboro Area School District
The East Pennsboro Area School District serves East Pennsboro Township, offering a balanced mix of small-town charm and access to modern resources. The district focuses on providing students with a well-rounded education, combining academic achievement with extracurricular opportunities.
East Pennsboro schools offer advanced placement and dual-enrollment programs, career and technical education tracks, and a variety of clubs and sports teams. The district places a strong emphasis on community involvement, creating a collaborative environment where families feel connected to their schools. Its small size allows for personalized attention, making it an appealing choice for families seeking a close-knit educational setting.
Big Spring School District
Big Spring School District serves the rural areas surrounding Newville and several neighboring townships. It is celebrated for its emphasis on personalized education and its connection to the area’s agricultural heritage.
The district provides a strong academic foundation through advanced placement courses, dual-enrollment opportunities, and career-focused pathways, ensuring students are prepared for a variety of post-secondary options. Big Spring also offers a well-regarded agricultural program that reflects the district’s rural roots, as well as competitive sports teams and arts programs that contribute to a vibrant school culture. The district’s strong sense of community and dedication to student success make it a valuable part of Cumberland County’s educational landscape.
Dauphin County
Dauphin County offers a balance of urban and suburban living. Areas like Harrisburg provide city amenities, while towns like Hershey and Hummelstown offer a quieter, family-oriented lifestyle. The county is a hub of cultural, economic, and educational activity, drawing families who value diversity and convenience.
Central Dauphin School District
As the largest district in the county, Central Dauphin School District serves over 12,000 students in Harrisburg and the surrounding suburbs. Known for its robust academic programs, the district offers advanced placement courses, career and technical pathways, and an emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. Central Dauphin is also recognized for its award-winning extracurricular activities, including competitive sports teams, music ensembles, and a wide range of student organizations.
Derry Township School District
Located in Hershey, Derry Township School District provides exceptional education to approximately 3,100 students. The district is celebrated for its focus on STEM education, creative arts, and innovative teaching approaches. Derry Township schools work closely with local businesses and institutions, offering unique learning opportunities for students. The district’s community-centered approach creates a welcoming environment that families cherish.
Lower Dauphin School District
Lower Dauphin School District primarily serves Hummelstown and surrounding rural areas. The district is dedicated to academic excellence and student well-being, offering smaller class sizes and a personalized approach to learning. Its high school provides advanced placement courses, dual-enrollment opportunities, and strong vocational programs. Students benefit from a wide range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, performing arts, and leadership programs.
Susquehanna Township School District
Serving a diverse community near Harrisburg, Susquehanna Township School District offers a comprehensive education tailored to prepare students for the future. The district combines traditional academics with modern teaching strategies, including career-readiness programs and advanced coursework. Its focus on community partnerships and extracurricular engagement enhances students’ overall experience.
Perry County
Perry County is known for its scenic rural landscapes, small-town charm, and strong sense of community. Families seeking a quieter lifestyle and close connections with neighbors often find Perry County an ideal place to live.
Greenwood School District
Greenwood School District serves a smaller student population and offers a personalized and focused approach to education. With small class sizes and dedicated educators, Greenwood ensures students receive individualized attention. The district emphasizes character development and community involvement, creating a nurturing environment for learning and growth.
Newport School District
Newport School District provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for students in Newport and nearby townships. The district balances rigorous academics with vocational training opportunities, ensuring students are well-prepared for college or the workforce. Newport’s robust extracurricular programs, including athletics and music, foster teamwork and creativity among its students.
Susquenita School District
Susquenita School District, which spans parts of Perry and Dauphin Counties, blends rural charm with comprehensive educational offerings. The district emphasizes dual-enrollment programs that allow students to earn college credits and strongly emphasizes extracurricular engagement. From athletics to performing arts, Susquenita provides numerous opportunities for students to excel both in and out of the classroom.
Living in Central Pennsylvania
Living in Central Pennsylvania offers a unique blend of suburban convenience, rural tranquility, and vibrant community life, making it an ideal place for families. Each area within this region has its own distinct character, providing options to suit a wide range of lifestyles and preferences.
Cumberland County, home to the renowned Cumberland Valley School District, is a haven for families seeking modern suburban living. This area features well-planned neighborhoods, access to top-tier amenities, and a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy numerous parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities, which encourage outdoor activities and a healthy lifestyle. Its convenient proximity to shopping centers, local businesses, and cultural venues adds to its appeal, offering everything families need within easy reach.
In Dauphin County, diversity in living options creates an attractive mix of urban and suburban lifestyles. Harrisburg, the state capital, combines the energy of a city with historical charm and plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment opportunities. Families looking for a quieter pace often settle in Hershey or Hummelstown, where nearby attractions like Hersheypark and ZooAmerica complement excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a close-knit community atmosphere. Dauphin County also offers an array of cultural events, festivals, and public spaces that enhance residents’ quality of life.
Perry County appeals to those who desire a rural lifestyle surrounded by nature’s beauty. Its rolling hills, forests, and rivers provide a serene backdrop for residents and offer opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Small towns in Perry County foster a strong sense of belonging and neighborly camaraderie, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a slower pace of life and tight community connections.
With its outstanding schools, welcoming neighborhoods, and varied living environments, Central Pennsylvania is a place where families can thrive and create lasting memories.
Ready to Make the Move?
Central Pennsylvania is an exceptional place to live, offering top-notch schools, welcoming communities, and diverse living options. Whether you prefer the suburban amenities of Cumberland County, the cultural vibrancy of Dauphin County, or the rural beauty of Perry County, this region has something for everyone. If you’re ready to find your perfect home, contact me today to explore neighborhoods and schools that suit your family’s needs!
