Is Harleysville Safe, Pros and cons of living in Harleysville
Harleysville, Pennsylvania, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities, making it an appealing location for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Nestled within Montgomery County, this community provides a welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of local identity. Its proximity to major roadways facilitates easy commutes and access to a wider range of opportunities.
The area boasts a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to townhouses, catering to diverse preferences and family sizes. Harleysville is known for its well-regarded school district, contributing to its appeal for families. The community’s commitment to maintaining a pleasant environment is evident in its well-kept neighborhoods and public spaces.
Is it Safe to Live in Harleysville?
Harleysville presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates significantly lower than both national and state averages. The overall crime rate is considerably below the national average, positioning Harleysville as a secure community. This low crime rate is a significant factor for individuals and families considering a move to the area.
Specifically, violent crime rates in Harleysville are notably low, with virtually no violent crimes reported in a typical year. Property crime also remains below average. The burglary rate is also low, ranking well below the Pennsylvania state average and the national average. Residents often consider the northeast part of the city to be the safest.
Crime Statistics Overview
The combined rate for violent and property crime in Harleysville is remarkably low, making it one of the safer communities of its size in America. Your chance of becoming a victim of any crime in Harleysville is approximately one in 275. This statistic further underscores the community’s favorable safety profile.
When comparing Harleysville to other cities of similar population size, its crime rate is noticeably lower than the average. The zip code 19438, which encompasses much of Harleysville, has an overall crime index of 50, which is 50% below the national average. This zip code is considered safer than 0% of neighborhoods within Harleysville, indicating a generally low crime environment.
Neighborhood Safety Variations
While Harleysville is generally safe, there can be variations in crime rates across different neighborhoods. Residents often perceive the northeast part of the city as the safest. Conversely, some sources suggest that the southeast part of the city is considered the safest.
The chance of being a victim of crime can vary by neighborhood, ranging from approximately 1 in 44 in the south neighborhoods to 1 in 106 in the southeast. Property crime rates are also below the national average. Burglary, a specific type of property crime, has a rate of 0.6100 per 1,000 residents in a typical year.
Cost of Living in Harleysville
Harleysville’s cost of living is higher than the national average, influenced significantly by housing expenses. Overall living costs are approximately 12% higher than the U.S. national average. This figure reflects an increase from previous years, indicating a trend of rising expenses in the area.
Housing costs in Harleysville are particularly notable, being 93% higher than the national average. The median home value in Harleysville is around $421,037, though recent data indicates median listing prices around $549K and a median sale price of $688K in March 2026. The median rent for a property in Harleysville is approximately $2,000 per month, with an average rent of $2,114 reported for 2025.
Housing Expenses
Housing expenses are a primary driver of Harleysville’s higher cost of living. The median home value has seen an increase, with prices up 45.5% compared to the previous year in March 2026, selling for a median price of $688K. Rental costs are also elevated, with the median rent for all bedroom counts and property types at $2,000.
The median listing price for homes in Harleysville stands at $549K. For renters, the median gross rent is $1,772 per month. This figure helps paint a picture of the rental market’s affordability for those not looking to purchase a home.
Other Living Expenses
Beyond housing, other living expenses in Harleysville also contribute to the overall cost. Utility prices are 9% higher than the national average. Transportation expenses, including gas prices, are 4% higher than the national average. Grocery prices are also slightly elevated, at 4% higher than the national average.
Healthcare costs are reported to be 4% higher than the national average. While Harleysville’s cost of living is higher than the national average, it is noted to be significantly lower than the state average for Pennsylvania.
Job Market and Economy
Harleysville’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers, with a significant portion of the workforce engaged in professional and administrative roles. The majority of residents are employed by private companies, with a smaller percentage working in governmental or non-profit sectors. The unemployment rate in Harleysville is reported at 3.5%, which is considered a typical rate.
The most common employment sectors for Harleysville residents include manufacturing, health care and social assistance, and professional, scientific, and technical services. Key job groups include management occupations, office and administrative support, and business and financial operations. The average annual household income in Harleysville was $134,236 in 2024.
Major Employers and Industries
Several companies contribute to Harleysville’s employment landscape. Harleysville Savings Bank is a notable financial institution. Martech Medical Products, Inc., a manufacturer of industrial rubber goods, is also a significant employer. IT Landes, an HVAC company, has been serving the community since 1929.
Other companies in the area include AMETEK, a global manufacturer of electronic instruments and electromechanical devices, and Greene Tweed, a manufacturer of high-performance materials. While major retailers like Walmart and McDonald’s have a presence, indicating broader economic activity, local businesses also play a vital role.
Income and Employment Trends
The median household income in Harleysville was $106,735, reflecting a slight decrease from the previous year. However, the average annual household income was reported as $134,236 in 2024. The unemployment rate of 3.5% suggests a stable job market.
The average salary for jobs in Harleysville is reported to be around $72,880 per year, or $35 per hour. However, other sources indicate a lower average annual salary of approximately $45,655. Most salaries in Harleysville range between $34,750 and $55,250 annually.
Climate and Weather
Harleysville experiences a climate characterized by warm, humid summers and very cold, snowy winters, with partly cloudy conditions throughout the year. The temperature typically varies from 24°F to 85°F, rarely dropping below 10°F or exceeding 93°F. This range offers distinct seasonal experiences for residents.
The hot season spans from late May to mid-September, with average daily high temperatures above 76°F. July is the hottest month, with highs around 85°F and lows of 66°F. Conversely, the cold season lasts from December to early March, with average daily high temperatures below 48°F. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 25°F and highs of 39°F.
Seasonal Temperatures and Precipitation
Harleysville receives an average annual rainfall of about 47 inches. Rain occurs throughout the year, with September being the wettest month, averaging 3.7 inches of precipitation. February sees the least amount of rain, with an average of 1.9 inches.
The drier season typically lasts from late August to early April. January has the fewest days with precipitation, averaging about 6.9 days with at least 0.04 inches of rain. The area also experiences an average annual snowfall of 17 inches.
Average Weather Conditions
The weather in Harleysville can fluctuate, with current conditions often varying. On a recent day, the temperature was reported as 64°F and sunny, with a RealFeel® temperature of 78°F due to humidity and other factors. Another report indicated cloudy conditions with a temperature of 62°F and a RealFeel® of 61°F.
These daily variations highlight the dynamic nature of the local climate. Understanding these patterns can help residents plan for outdoor activities and manage seasonal adjustments to their routines.
Education in Harleysville
Harleysville is served by a highly-rated public school system, with schools consistently ranking among the top in Pennsylvania. The district demonstrates strong academic performance, with student proficiency scores in math and reading significantly exceeding state averages. This commitment to education makes Harleysville an attractive option for families with school-aged children.
The public schools in Harleysville have an average ranking of 9/10, placing them in the top 20% of Pennsylvania public schools. Key schools like Salford Hills Elementary School and General Nash Elementary School are frequently recognized for their academic excellence. These institutions are noted for their dedicated teachers and robust educational programs.
School Performance and Rankings
Salford Hills Elementary School is particularly distinguished, ranking 121st out of 1,511 elementary schools in Pennsylvania and holding a 5-star rating from SchoolDigger. This school boasts impressive proficiency rates in math and ELA, well above district and state averages. General Nash Elementary School also performs exceptionally well, with high math and ELA proficiency scores.
Across the board, Harleysville public schools show strong results in standardized testing. Math proficiency scores average around 61%, with reading proficiency at 75%. This educational strength is a significant draw for families seeking quality schooling for their children.
Student Demographics and School Districts
Harleysville, PA, is part of the Souderton Area School District and the North Penn School District. The student body in Harleysville’s public schools is diverse, though minority enrollment is less than the Pennsylvania state average. The majority of K-12 students in Harleysville attend public schools, a rate higher than the state average.
The school district serves a relatively affluent student population, with low percentages of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. This socioeconomic factor can contribute to the resources and support available within the schools.
Demographics of Harleysville
Harleysville is home to approximately 9,090 residents, with a median age of 49.5 years. The population is fairly balanced in terms of gender, with 49.5% male and 50.5% female. A significant majority of the population, 93.5%, are U.S.-born citizens.
The racial composition of Harleysville is predominantly White, making up about 83.3% of the population. Other significant racial groups include African American (5.32%) and Asian (3.28%) residents. A small percentage of the population identifies with two or more races.
Population Trends and Age Distribution
Harleysville’s population is currently in a state of slight decline, with an annual rate of -0.21%. However, the population has seen a marginal increase of 0.01% since the 2020 census. The median age of 49.5 years indicates a community with a substantial proportion of older adults.
The age distribution shows about 13.2% of the population under 15, with 10.5% in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.1%, while 30.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Those aged 65 and older constitute approximately 25.3% of the population.
Household and Income Statistics
Harleysville has around 3,672 households, with an average of two people per household. A majority of these households, 66.7%, are families, while the remaining 33.3% consist of individuals or non-relatives. The median household income for renters in Harleysville was $58,854 in 2022.
The median household income for all residents was $106,735. Income levels vary by age group, with households led by residents aged 45 to 64 earning a median of $129,267. Overall, 93.9% of locals live above the poverty line.
Pros and Cons of Living in Harleysville
Harleysville offers a compelling mix of advantages and disadvantages for potential residents. Its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and low crime rates are significant draws. The suburban setting provides a peaceful environment while maintaining convenient access to larger urban centers.
However, the cost of living, particularly housing expenses, is notably higher than the national average. While salaries are competitive, the overall expense of settling down in Harleysville requires careful financial consideration. The climate also presents distinct seasonal challenges, with cold winters and humid summers.
Advantages of Harleysville
The safety of Harleysville is a major advantage, with crime rates significantly below national averages. The community boasts highly-rated public schools, making it an attractive location for families prioritizing education. Harleysville also offers a peaceful, suburban lifestyle with access to nature and recreational opportunities.
Its proximity to Philadelphia provides residents with access to a wider range of cultural, entertainment, and employment options. The community is generally considered family-oriented, with a strong emphasis on local amenities and a slower pace of life compared to major cities.
Disadvantages of Harleysville
The most significant drawback to living in Harleysville is its elevated cost of living, driven primarily by high housing prices. While the median home value is substantial, rental costs are also considerable. The median rent for a property in Harleysville is around $2,000 per month.
The climate can also be a factor, with cold winters and hot, humid summers. For those accustomed to milder weather, the seasonal extremes might be a consideration. Additionally, while the job market is stable, the average salaries may not fully offset the high cost of living for some individuals.