Pros and Cons of Living in Shippensburg, PA: A Balanced Overview

I’ve watched hippensburg, PA evolve—from a quiet college town with deep agricultural roots to a growing community balancing small-town charm with modern conveniences. There’s a lot to love here, but like any place, it has its challenges. If you’re considering moving to Shippensburg, let me walk you through what life is really like here—the good, the bad, and the in-between.

Living in Shippensburg, PA: A Firsthand Experience

Shippensburg is a place where neighbors still greet each other, where you can stroll through historic downtown and run into familiar faces. But over the years, I’ve seen the town change. The once sleepy streets are now busier, with new developments springing up and a growing number of families calling Shippensburg home.

Some of these changes have been great—more local businesses, better housing options, and a stronger economy. But I’ve also seen concerns arise, like increased suburban sprawl and fewer job opportunities that keep young professionals in town.

Let’s dive into what makes Shippensburg a great place to live—and what might make you think twice.

---

The Pros of Living in Shippensburg, PA

1. Affordable Cost of Living

One of the biggest reasons people move to Shippensburg is affordability. I bought my first home here years ago when housing prices were even lower, and while they’ve gone up, they’re still much more reasonable than nearby cities like Harrisburg or Carlisle. The median home price sits around $165,000, and you can find a comfortable rental for well under the national average.

For families or retirees looking to stretch their dollar, Shippensburg makes financial sense. Property taxes are manageable, and everyday expenses—groceries, utilities, and gas—are all fairly priced.

2. Tight-Knit Community & Small-Town Feel

If you want a place where people know your name, Shippensburg is it. The town hosts annual events like the Shippensburg Corn Festival, which brings the whole community together for a celebration of local crafts, music, and food. It’s always hosted the last Saturday in August.

Having lived here for years, I’ve personally seen how people rally together during tough times. Whether it’s a fundraiser for a family in need or a town-wide cleanup after a storm, the sense of community here is undeniable.

3. Shippensburg University Brings Life to the Town

The university is one of the pillars of our town, providing not just education but also jobs and cultural events. Even if you’re not a student, you’ll benefit from university-sponsored programs, concerts, and even job opportunities.

I’ve had friends who took advantage of continuing education programs at Shippensburg University, and the school keeps the town from feeling too isolated, especially for young professionals.

4. Lower than National Average Crime Rate = Safe Living

Compared to many Pennsylvania towns, Shippensburg is a safe place to live. I’ve never had to worry about walking downtown at night or letting my kids play outside. The local police force is active in the community, and crime rates remain lower than the national average.

5. Beautiful Scenery & Outdoor Activities

If you love the outdoors, Shippensburg has plenty to offer. My weekends often include hikes in Michaux State Forest, and the views in the fall are breathtaking. You’re also just a short drive from Caledonia State Park, where you can camp, fish, or simply enjoy nature.

---

The Cons of Living in Shippensburg, PA

1. Limited Job Opportunities

This is one of the biggest struggles of living here. While Shippensburg University, Volvo, and local businesses provide jobs, options are limited, especially for high-paying or specialized careers.

Many of my friends and neighbors commute to Chambersburg, Carlisle, or Harrisburg for work, which can mean 30-60 minutes of drive time each way. If remote work isn’t an option for you, be prepared for fewer career choices.

2. Growth is Changing the Town

I remember when most of Shippensburg was farmland, but over the years, new housing developments have popped up. While this brings more home options, it’s also changed the town’s character. Some long-time residents worry that the quiet charm is fading as more suburban-style neighborhoods replace open spaces.

3. Public Transportation is Almost Nonexistent

Unless you own a car, getting around can be a challenge. Unlike bigger cities, Shippensburg doesn’t have a reliable bus system, and ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft are hit-or-miss.

I’ve had friends who moved here from bigger cities struggle with this, especially if they were used to public transit. If you plan to live in Shippensburg, having a car is a must.

4. Seasonal Weather Extremes

I personally enjoy the four seasons, but if you’re not a fan of cold winters and humid summers, Shippensburg might be tough.

Winters can be brutal, with freezing temperatures and 20+ inches of snow per year. Summers bring a different challenge—high humidity and temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s can make it feel much hotter.

If you’re not used to shoveling snow or dealing with humid summers, it’s something to prepare for.

5. Limited Nightlife & Entertainment

While there are a few great restaurants and bars, Shippensburg isn’t exactly a nightlife hotspot. If you’re looking for live music venues, upscale restaurants, or a variety of cultural events, you’ll likely need to drive to Carlisle or Harrisburg.

That said, if you prefer a quieter, family-friendly environment, this could be a plus rather than a downside.

---

Final Thoughts: Is Shippensburg, PA, the Right Fit for You?

I’ve spent years living in Shippensburg, and I can say this—it’s a wonderful place for the right person. If you’re looking for affordable living, a close-knit community, and access to beautiful outdoor spaces, you’ll love it here.

But if you need a booming job market, lots of entertainment options, or easy public transportation, you might find it frustrating.

For me, the balance of small-town charm and steady growth has been a great fit. If you’re considering making the move, I’d recommend spending some time here—visit local spots, talk to residents, and get a feel for what life is really like.

Would I choose to live here again? Absolutely. But it’s all about finding the right match for your lifestyle.

---

FAQs About Living in Shippensburg, PA

Is Shippensburg a good place to raise a family?
Yes! The low crime rate, good schools, and strong community make it an excellent choice for families.

How far is Shippensburg from major cities?
Shippensburg is about 45 minutes from Harrisburg and 2 hours from both Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.

Is the cost of living really that affordable?
Compared to bigger cities, absolutely. Housing and daily expenses are much lower than in places like Harrisburg or Philadelphia.

Are there good restaurants in town?
There are some great local spots like CJ’s American Pub & Grill and University Grille, but options are limited compared to larger towns.

Would you recommend moving to Shippensburg?
If you value affordability, community, and a quieter lifestyle—yes. But if you need a fast-paced environment with lots of career opportunities, it might not be the best fit.

---

This is my take on living in Shippensburg, based on real-life experience. If you have any questions about moving here, drop them in the comments—I’m happy to help!