Is Treasure Lake Safe, Pros and cons of living in Treasure Lake
Treasure Lake, Pennsylvania, offers a unique blend of serene natural beauty and community living. This census-designated place is nestled amidst rolling hills, providing residents with scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere. Its location, just north of the city of DuBois, offers a balance between secluded living and convenient access to urban amenities and employment centers.
The community is centered around its namesake, Treasure Lake, a body of water that forms the heart of many recreational activities. The area is known for its diverse housing, ranging from older, established homes to newer constructions, reflecting a community that has evolved over time. This mix of architectural styles contributes to the eclectic character of Treasure Lake, making it a distinctive place to call home.
Is it Safe to Live in Treasure Lake?
Treasure Lake generally presents a safe environment for its residents. The overall crime rate is significantly lower than both the national and state averages, contributing to a high safety grade (as reported by DoorProfit). This suggests that the community is well-protected and experiences fewer criminal incidents compared to many other areas.
Violent crime rates in Treasure Lake are also notably low, ranking well below national averages (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). Residents often feel safest in the southwestern parts of the community, while crime statistics indicate the lowest incident counts in the northeastern areas. This localized safety perception is supported by broader data showing a safer environment than most U.S. cities.
Housing Market and Cost of Living
The housing market in Treasure Lake presents a range of options, with a median listing price of approximately $339,500 (as reported by Realtor.com). While the median sale price saw a decrease of 13.2% year-over-year in February 2026, home prices remain competitive. Some homes under 2,000 square feet with smaller lots can be found between $140,000 and $200,000, while larger properties command higher prices, ranging from $310,000 to $490,000 (as reported by Homes.com).
The cost of living in Treasure Lake is notably favorable, being 1% lower than the national average and 2% higher than the Pennsylvania average (as reported by AreaVibes). Housing costs are particularly attractive, sitting 1% below the national average. This affordability, combined with the community’s amenities, makes Treasure Lake a compelling option for many.
Home Prices and Trends
The median listing price for homes in Treasure Lake is around $339,500, with a median price per square foot of $149 (as reported by Realtor.com). While the market has seen some fluctuations, with prices decreasing year-over-year, there is a balanced supply of homes for sale, indicating a healthy market for both buyers and sellers. The median sale price of a home was $317,000 in February 2026, down 13.2% from the previous year (as reported by Redfin).
The real estate landscape in Treasure Lake is eclectic, featuring a mix of architectural styles from different eras. This diversity means buyers can find homes that suit various tastes and budgets. The median home value in Treasure Lake is $304,100, which is lower than the national median of $332,700 (as reported by Niche).
Rental Market
For those considering renting, Treasure Lake offers a variety of options. Three-bedroom houses typically rent in the $1,300s, with larger four-plus-bedroom homes ranging from $2,400 to $2,500 (as reported by Rentometer). The average rent across all property types is approximately $1,525 for a 3-bedroom unit and $2,067 for a 4+ bedroom unit (as reported by Rentometer).
Apartments are also available, often featuring modern amenities and convenient locations. While specific median rent data for apartments is not readily available, the overall rental market provides flexible choices for individuals and families. The average rental price in Treasure Lake is approximately $1,905, which is lower than in 46.1% of Pennsylvania neighborhoods (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Job Market and Economy
The job market in Treasure Lake is supported by a workforce of approximately 2,169 residents. Employment sectors are diverse, with significant contributions from Healthcare & Social Assistance, Educational Services, and Transportation & Warehousing (as reported by Data USA). Many residents are employed in professional and administrative roles, with a smaller percentage in hands-on or service-based jobs.
The average annual household income in Treasure Lake was reported as $185,235 in 2024, with a median income of $112,969 (as reported by Point2Homes). The poverty rate is 5.7%, which is lower than the national average (as reported by Data USA). The local economy benefits from a range of industries, with major employers in the broader DuBois area including Penn Highlands Healthcare, Walmart, and Lowe’s (as reported by Greater DuBois Online Community Profile and Lensa).
Major Employers
Within the broader DuBois area, key employers play a significant role in the local economy. Penn Highlands Healthcare is a major healthcare provider, employing over 6,250 people across its ten hospitals (as reported by Greater DuBois Online Community Profile). Other significant employers include Walmart and Lowe’s, contributing to the retail and service sectors.
Manufacturing also forms a strong base, with companies like Sensus and Gasbarre Products contributing to the industrial landscape. The presence of these diverse employers provides a stable and growing business environment for the region.
Unemployment and Salaries
The unemployment rate in Treasure Lake is reported at 7.9% (as reported by Point2Homes). The median wage in Treasure Lake is approximately $54,600 per year, with the 75th percentile earning around $69,400 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The average annual salary for employees at Treasure Lake RV Resort, a specific local employer, is around $40,624 (as reported by Treasure Lake RV Resort).
For households, the median income was $112,969 in 2024, showing a slight increase from the previous year (as reported by Point2Homes). This indicates a generally stable economic situation for residents.
Climate and Weather
Treasure Lake experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by moderately cold winters and warm summers. The average annual temperature hovers around 50°F (10°C). Temperatures typically range from 18°F to 79°F throughout the year, rarely dropping below 3°F or exceeding 87°F (as reported by Treasure Lake Weather).
Summers are generally warm and partly cloudy, with July being the hottest month, averaging a high of 79°F and a low of 60°F. Winters are cold, snowy, and mostly cloudy, with January being the coldest month, averaging a low of 19°F and a high of 32°F (as reported by Treasure Lake Weather).
Seasonal Conditions
The warmer season in Treasure Lake spans from late May to mid-September, with daily high temperatures often exceeding 70°F. Conversely, the colder season lasts from early December to early March, with daily high temperatures typically remaining below 41°F. The area experiences significant seasonal variation in rainfall, with June typically being the wettest month, receiving an average of 3.6 inches of rain.
The clearest skies are usually observed in August, while January tends to be the cloudiest month. The community receives an annual precipitation of approximately 44 inches and an annual snowfall of about 55 inches (as reported by Treasure Lake, Pennsylvania).
Education and Demographics
Treasure Lake is served by the DuBois Area School District, which is considered above average (as reported by Niche). Public elementary schools in the area include Juniata Elementary School, which has a rating of 4 out of 5, and Oklahoma Elementary School, rated 2 out of 5 (as reported by Niche). DuBois Area Senior High School holds a rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on numerous reviews.
The population of Treasure Lake is approximately 5,336 residents (as reported by Niche). The demographics show a population that is predominantly White, making up about 97.1% of the residents (as reported by Point2Homes). The median age in Treasure Lake is around 48 years, which is higher than the national average (as reported by Treasure Lake, Pennsylvania).
Population Breakdown
The population of Treasure Lake consists of about 5,336 individuals, with a nearly even gender distribution: 49.4% male and 50.6% female (as reported by Point2Homes). The age distribution shows a significant portion of the population in the older age brackets, with approximately 31.8% being 65 or older, and 23.8% between 45 and 64 years old. Only about 13.8% are children under 15.
Citizenship is high, with 98.9% of residents being U.S. citizens (as reported by Data USA). The foreign-born population is small, at about 1.56% of residents (as reported by Data USA), which is comparable to the national average.
Educational Attainment
Educational attainment in Treasure Lake is notably high. Approximately 28.4% of the population has a high school education, while 10% pursued college studies. Further education includes 5.9% with associate degrees and 30.2% holding bachelor’s degrees. A significant portion, 24.4%, has achieved master’s or doctorate degrees (as reported by Point2Homes).
This high level of educational attainment suggests a well-educated populace. The public schools serving Treasure Lake are considered above average, indicating a commitment to education within the community.
Pros and Cons of Living in Treasure Lake
Treasure Lake offers a tranquil lifestyle with access to nature and recreational activities, making it appealing for many. The community’s safety, with crime rates well below national averages, is a significant advantage. Furthermore, the cost of living, particularly housing, is more affordable than the national average, providing financial benefits for residents.
The community’s natural setting, with lakes and surrounding woods, offers ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. However, Treasure Lake’s rural feel means that some residents might find the pace of life slower than in more urban areas. Additionally, while schools are considered above average, the remote location might present challenges for those seeking extensive job opportunities or diverse cultural experiences.
Advantages
One of the primary advantages of living in Treasure Lake is its peaceful, rural atmosphere combined with a strong sense of community. Residents appreciate the natural beauty, including the lakes and surrounding environment, which facilitate outdoor recreation. The safety of the community, with low crime rates, provides peace of mind for families and individuals alike.
The affordability of housing is another major draw, with home prices and rental costs generally lower than the national average. This financial advantage, coupled with the community’s amenities, contributes to a high quality of life for its residents.
Disadvantages
While Treasure Lake offers many benefits, potential drawbacks include its relatively isolated location. This can mean longer commutes for those working outside the immediate area and fewer options for specialized services or entertainment compared to larger cities. The job market, while present, may not be as robust as in more metropolitan regions.
Additionally, some residents have noted concerns regarding Homeowners Association (HOA) fees and regulations, which can be perceived as high or restrictive. The community’s predominantly rural character might also be a disadvantage for individuals who prefer a more dynamic, urban lifestyle.