In Pennsylvania there are several attractive areas to choose from, but one of the prettiest regions of the state is Lancaster County. This country-style county has even been nicknamed the Garden Spot of American. This is partly due to the county's rich soil. As a result, agriculture is one of the area's strongest industries. In fact, over 5,000 farms in Lancaster produce more than $800 million dollars in food, feed, and fiber every year. Dairy products and livestock are also plentiful.



Tourism is another strong industry in Lancaster because the county is home to a large Amish population. In addition to their unique apparel and lifestyle, tourists enjoy visiting Amish towns because of the quality goods that they make. For example, you can buy a hand-made quilt, wooden toys, furniture and more at an Amish auction or market.

The average sales price for a home in Lancaster County is right around $180,000. List prices hover almost $40,000 dollars higher than the sales prices though. This means that Lancaster County real estate is currently a buyer's market and that the list price probably isn't as intimidating as it looks. With more than half a million people living in the area, there are always plenty of houses on the market to choose from.

Because of the strong agriculture industry, almost half of the land in Lancaster is zoned for farming though. Consequently, building isn't as common as buying. A newly constructed home usually cost much more than an older one too. In fact, the price for a new home is usually double the average purchase price of an older one.

Still, there's a reason that so many people have decided to settle down in southeast Pennsylvania. Lancaster County is very picturesque and entertaining. It is famous for its covered bridges, green landscape and parks. It is also home to the Strasburg Railroad; the oldest shortline railroad in the country. Families particularly enjoy riding the train. State parks and Hershey Park are also fun day-trips with kids and parents can visit the outlets at nearby Reading.

If you need help sorting through the listings in Lancaster County, the easiest and quickest way to accomplish the task is probably to hire a local Realtor.