Is Enola Safe, Pros and cons of living in Enola
Enola, Pennsylvania, offers a blend of suburban comfort and community engagement, making it a notable place to consider for relocation. Nestled in Cumberland County, it provides a distinct atmosphere that appeals to various lifestyles. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview for those contemplating a move to this charming locale.
The town’s identity is closely tied to its history as a railroad hub, a legacy that continues to influence its character and development. Enola’s strategic location across the Susquehanna River from Harrisburg also positions it within a dynamic metropolitan area, offering both local charm and access to broader opportunities.
Is it Safe to Live in Enola?
Enola presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are notably lower than national averages. The community benefits from a crime rate that is 49% below the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). This indicates a lower incidence of criminal activity compared to many other U.S. cities, contributing to a sense of security for those living there.
When examining crime statistics, Enola’s violent crime rate is significantly below the national average (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Property crime rates are also generally considered manageable within the community. The town’s overall crime safety grade is an A as of 2026, further underscoring its favorable safety profile (as reported by DoorProfit).
Violent Crime Rates
The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Enola is quite low. Your chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Enola is 1 in 3,052, which translates to a rate of 0 per one thousand inhabitants (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). This is considerably lower than many other communities across the United States.
Compared to the state of Pennsylvania, Enola also demonstrates a lower likelihood of violent crime. The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Pennsylvania is 1 in 407, highlighting Enola’s comparatively safer environment (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). This statistic is a key factor for individuals and families prioritizing safety.
Property Crime
Property crime in Enola, while present, is also managed effectively within the community. The property crime rate in Enola is 9.362 per 1,000 residents in a typical year (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). This rate is considered average for U.S. cities when looking at all population sizes.
However, when comparing Enola to other communities, its property crime rate is often viewed favorably. Your chance of becoming a victim of property crime in Enola is 1 in 197 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). This suggests a relatively stable environment regarding property-related offenses.
Cost of Living
Enola offers a cost of living that is generally competitive, with some expenses being lower than the national average. The overall cost of living in Enola is 3% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale). This indicates a moderate expense for residents, influenced by various factors.
Housing expenses in Enola are notably lower than the national average, contributing to its affordability. Enola’s housing expenses are 2% lower than the national average (as reported by PayScale). This makes homeownership or rental more accessible compared to many other areas.
Housing Costs
The median home value in Enola provides a key indicator of housing affordability. The median home value in Enola is $164,687 (as reported by Livability.com). This figure is significantly below the national median home value, making it an attractive option for homebuyers.
Rental prices in Enola also present a favorable picture for those seeking rental accommodations. The average rent in Enola, PA, is $1,370 per month as of April 2026 (as reported by Apartments.com). This is 17% lower than the national average rent, positioning Enola as an affordable place to rent.
Utilities and Transportation
While housing is affordable, utility costs in Enola are slightly higher than the national average. Utility prices in Enola are 17% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale). This is a factor to consider when budgeting for monthly expenses.
Transportation costs in Enola are comparable to the national average. Expenses like bus fares and gas prices are 1% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale). This suggests that commuting and daily travel expenses are fairly standard for the area.
Job Market and Economy
Enola’s job market is influenced by its proximity to Harrisburg and its own developing economic landscape. The median household income in Enola was $72,135, reflecting a positive change from the previous year (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). This income level provides a solid foundation for residents.
The unemployment rate in Pennsylvania, which encompasses Enola, is a key economic indicator. In March 2026, the unemployment rate in Pennsylvania was 4.2% (as reported by USAFacts). This rate indicates a stable job market within the state.
Major Employers
Several key employers contribute to the economic vitality of the Enola area. Norfolk Southern operates Enola Yard, a significant rail yard and locomotive shop, which has historically been a major employer and economic driver for the town (as reported by Wikipedia). This facility has been central to Enola’s identity and employment opportunities.
Other significant employers in the broader Harrisburg metropolitan area, which Enola is part of, include major companies like Giant Food Stores LLC and UPS (as reported by Commonwealth of Pennsylvania). These companies offer a range of employment opportunities across various sectors.
Average Salaries
The average salary in Enola offers a glimpse into the earning potential for its residents. The median wage in Enola is $46.9K per year (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This figure represents the midpoint of earnings for individuals working in the area.
More specific salary data indicates variations based on roles and experience. For instance, the average individual income in Enola is $37,476 (as reported by Isabel Warrell). While this figure is lower, it’s important to consider it alongside the median household income for a comprehensive view.
Climate and Weather
Enola experiences a climate typical of the Mid-Atlantic region, with distinct seasons. Temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, offering warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Throughout the year, temperatures in Enola range from 22°F to 86°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather).
The area receives a moderate amount of precipitation annually. Annual precipitation averages 46 inches, with 26 inches of snowfall (as reported by myPerfectWeather). This contributes to the changing seasons and the local environment.
Temperature Ranges
Summers in Enola are generally warm and humid, providing pleasant conditions for outdoor activities. The hot season lasts from late May to mid-September, with average daily high temperatures above 76°F (as reported by Climate.com). July is typically the hottest month, with average highs around 85°F.
Winters are cold and can bring significant snowfall. The cold season extends from December to early March, with average daily high temperatures below 47°F (as reported by Climate.com). January is the coldest month, with average lows around 24°F.
Rainfall and Snowfall
Enola receives a consistent amount of rainfall throughout the year. The month with the most rain is typically September, with an average of 3.5 inches (as reported by Climate.com). The wettest season spans from late March to late August, with over a 30% chance of a wet day.
Snowfall is a common feature of Enola’s winters. Annual snowfall averages 26 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The drier season generally occurs from late August to late March, with January having the fewest wet days.
Education and Schools
Enola is served by the East Pennsboro Area School District, which provides educational opportunities for its young residents. The district’s public schools generally receive positive reviews and perform above the state average. Enola, PA public schools have an average math proficiency score of 39% and a reading proficiency score of 59% (as reported by Niche).
Several schools within the district are recognized for their academic performance. Shaull Elementary School, East Pennsboro Area Sr. High School, and East Pennsboro Elementary School are among the top-ranked public schools in Enola (as reported by Niche).
School Performance
Enola’s public schools demonstrate varying levels of academic achievement, with some excelling beyond state averages. Shaull Elementary School is noted for its strong performance, consistently ranking in the top 20% of Pennsylvania elementary schools (as reported by SchoolDigger.com). It shows high proficiency rates in both math and English Language Arts.
East Pennsboro Area Senior High School also performs well, ranking in the top 25-30% of Pennsylvania high schools (as reported by SchoolDigger.com). The school shows strong Keystone Exam proficiency, particularly in Literature, and maintains a low dropout rate.
Student Demographics
The student population in Enola’s public schools is diverse. Minority enrollment is 35% of the student body, which is slightly less than the Pennsylvania public school average (as reported by Niche). This diversity contributes to a rich learning environment for all students.
The student-teacher ratio in Enola’s schools is generally favorable, contributing to individualized attention. For example, Shaull Elementary School has a student-teacher ratio of 14:1 (as reported by Niche). This ratio is conducive to effective teaching and learning.
Demographics and Population
Enola is a census-designated place with a population that reflects a mix of age groups and ethnic backgrounds. The population of Enola was approximately 6,534 in 2024 (as reported by Data Commons). The median age in Enola is around 35.3 years (as reported by Data Commons).
The racial makeup of Enola is predominantly White, with significant Black or African American and multi-racial populations. White residents constitute about 80.6% of the population, with Black or African American residents at 8.8% (as reported by Point2Homes). A notable portion of the population, 9.5%, identifies with two or more races.
Age Distribution
Enola’s population has a balanced age distribution, with a notable presence in the working-age and older adult brackets. The median age of 35.3 years suggests a community with a mix of younger families and established residents (as reported by Data Commons). Approximately 15.8% of the population are children under 15, and 14.3% are 65 or older (as reported by Point2Homes).
The largest age demographic falls between 25 and 64 years old, indicating a strong working-age population. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.1% of the population, while those aged 45 to 64 constitute another 24.3% (as reported by Point2Homes). This age distribution suggests a vibrant community with ongoing economic activity.
Household and Income Statistics
Enola has a substantial number of households, with an average size that reflects a mix of families and individuals. There are approximately 2,731 households in Enola, with an average of 2 members per household (as reported by Point2Homes). Of these, 47.9% are families.
The median household income in Enola shows a healthy economic standing for its residents. The median household income in Enola was $72,135, representing a positive shift from the previous year (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). This income level supports a comfortable standard of living within the community.
Pros and Cons of Living in Enola
Enola offers a compelling mix of advantages for potential residents, balanced by a few considerations. Its safety, affordability, and community feel are significant draws. The town provides a lower-than-average crime rate and housing costs that are competitive with national benchmarks.
However, potential residents should also consider factors such as the higher utility costs and the median salary, which may be lower than in some larger metropolitan areas. The job market, while stable, may offer fewer high-paying opportunities compared to major cities.
Advantages
One of the primary advantages of living in Enola is its strong sense of community and safety. The town’s crime rate is significantly below the national average, making it an attractive place for families and individuals prioritizing security (as reported by DoorProfit). The overall positive safety grade further enhances this appeal.
Affordability is another key benefit, particularly concerning housing. The median home value and average rent are considerably lower than national averages, making Enola an accessible option for many (as reported by Livability.com, Apartments.com). This financial accessibility contributes to a higher quality of life for residents.
Disadvantages
While Enola offers many benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Utility costs are higher than the national average, which can impact monthly budgets. Utility prices in Enola are 17% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale).
Additionally, while the median household income is respectable, the average individual income and the range of high-paying jobs might be more limited compared to larger urban centers. The median wage is $46.9K per year (as reported by ZipRecruiter), which may require careful financial planning for some.