Is Chambersburg Safe, Pros and cons of living in Chambersburg

Chambersburg, a borough nestled in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, offers a blend of small-town charm and suburban convenience. Situated in the Cumberland Valley, it provides a gateway to both natural landscapes and historical sites. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere and a growing population that values a balanced lifestyle.

This area boasts a rich history, dating back to its settlement in the 1730s. Its strategic location has played a role in various historical events, making it a place of interest for those who appreciate local heritage. Chambersburg continues to evolve, balancing its historical roots with modern development to serve its residents.

Is it Safe to Live in Chambersburg?

Chambersburg’s crime rates present a mixed picture. The city records a violent crime rate that is 5.5% above the national average, with specific offenses like rape and robbery also showing higher rates than the national figures (as reported by FBI crime data). Conversely, property crime rates in Chambersburg are 28.8% below the national average. Overall crime rates are reported to be 5% higher than the national average, with violent crimes being 29% higher than the national average. NeighborhoodScout’s analysis indicates that Chambersburg has a crime rate higher than 92% of Pennsylvania’s cities and towns.

When considering safety, it is important to note that Chambersburg has a crime rate that is higher than the national average. While violent crime is above average, property crime is below the national average. The chance of becoming a victim of any crime in Chambersburg is about 1 in 46. The Chambersburg Police Department serves the city, and data from the FBI Crime Data Explorer covers the period from 2019-2023.

Housing Costs and Availability

The housing market in Chambersburg is described as very competitive, with a median sale price of approximately $229,000 as of March 2026 (as reported by Redfin). This price represents a 7.5% decrease compared to the previous year. Homes in Chambersburg tend to sell relatively quickly, with an average of 24 days on the market in March 2026, an increase from the previous year. The median home value in Chambersburg, PA, is $286,441 as of March 31, 2026, showing a 2.8% increase over the past year (according to Zillow).

Rental prices in Chambersburg show some variation depending on the source and date of the report. One source indicates an average rent of $1,500 per month as of April 26, 2026. Another report from March 31, 2026, states the average rent is $1,242 per month. More recently, as of May 2026, the median rent for all property types is $1,412 per month (according to Zumper). The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $966 to $1,276 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment averages between $1,200 and $1,254 per month.

Job Market and Major Employers

Chambersburg’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers. Major companies in the area include WellSpan Health, a significant healthcare system, and Martin’s Famous Pastry Shoppe, a well-known food production company. Other notable employers include Walmart, McDonald’s, and Target, which contribute to the retail and service sectors. The manufacturing sector also plays a role, with companies like Parker Hannifin and Procter & Gamble operating in the region.

The Chambersburg-Waynesboro Metropolitan Statistical Area has seen job growth, with a projected annual job growth of 0.8%. The unemployment rate in the Chambersburg-Waynesboro, PA (MSA) was 3.9% as of January 2026 (according to FRED). Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates a statewide unemployment rate of 4.3%, with Chambersburg’s rate being just under 4% in June data. The median household income in Chambersburg is reported as $56,576.

Climate and Weather Patterns

Chambersburg experiences a climate characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 76°F from late May to mid-September. July is typically the hottest month, with average highs around 85°F and lows of 67°F. Winters are cold and snowy, with average daily high temperatures falling below 48°F from December to early March. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 25°F and highs of 39°F.

The area receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 42 inches. May typically sees the most rainfall, with about 3.5 inches, while January has the least, around 1.5 inches. Snowfall averages about 31.3 inches annually. The perception of humidity varies throughout the year, with the muggiest period lasting from late May to late September.

Educational Opportunities

Chambersburg is served by the Chambersburg Area School District, which encompasses multiple schools from elementary to high school levels. Chambersburg Area Senior High School receives an overall Niche grade of B- and has a student-teacher ratio of 18:1. Math proficiency at the high school is around 35%, and reading proficiency is about 50%. Chambersburg Area Middle School – North also holds a Niche grade of B- and a GreatSchools Rating of 8 out of 10.

The district is noted for its diversity, with rankings that include being among the Most Diverse Public High Schools in Pennsylvania. Niche provides various rankings for schools and districts, analyzing statistics and reviews to assess quality. The Chambersburg Area School District as a whole has an overall Niche grade of B-.

Demographics and Population

Chambersburg has a population of approximately 21,903 residents as of the 2020 United States Census. By 2026, estimates suggest the population has grown to around 23,622. The racial composition of Chambersburg is varied, with White residents making up about 65.6% of the population, followed by Hispanic residents at 22.6%, and Black or African American residents at 7.0% (as of 2024).

Citizenship in Chambersburg is high, with 94.9% of residents being U.S. citizens, which is above the national average. The median age in Chambersburg is 39.6 years. Approximately 7.38% of residents were born outside of the country. Chambersburg is considered more diverse than Pennsylvania overall.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Chambersburg, PA, is reported to be 5% higher than the U.S. national average, with a slight increase from the previous year. This figure places it among America’s more expensive cities according to one estimate. However, another source indicates that the cost of living in Chambersburg is 7% less than the national average. Monthly expenses are estimated at $2,101 for a single person and $4,997 for a family of four, including rent (as reported by LivingCost.org).

Housing costs are a significant factor, with an average rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $1,276 per month (as of May 2026). Food expenses are noted as being 24.8% below the national average. Transportation, energy, and healthcare costs are also reported to be lower than the national average. The median household income in Chambersburg is around $56,576.