Olyphant, Scranton, PA

Olyphant Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Olyphant is a distinct borough located in the heart of Lackawanna County, situated just northeast of the city of Scranton proper. While administratively separate, it is functionally and culturally integrated into the greater Scranton metropolitan area, offering a classic small-town feel with immediate access to urban amenities. The neighborhood's character is deeply rooted in its anthracite coal mining history, evident in its tight-knit community, historic architecture, and the enduring pride of its residents.

Founded in the late 19th century and incorporated as a borough in 1891, Olyphant was named for the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad president, George Talbot Olyphant. Its development was directly tied to the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad and the surrounding coal breakers and collieries. Today, Olyphant maintains a quiet, residential atmosphere centered around a traditional and walkable main street (South Valley Avenue), providing a sense of identity and community that is highly valued by its inhabitants.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Olyphant is predominantly composed of classic Pennsylvania vernacular styles: sturdy, single-family homes including twins (duplexes), detached houses, and some larger, older Victorian and Colonial homes that speak to the borough's prosperous past. Modest bungalows and post-World War II ranches are also common, offering a range of options for first-time homebuyers and growing families. Multi-unit apartment buildings are present but not dominant, concentrated mainly along the commercial corridors.

Real estate in Olyphant is notably affordable compared to national averages, representing one of the key draws to the area. The market features a mix of owner-occupied and rental properties, with a strong trend towards homeownership. Recent trends show steady, modest demand as buyers seek value and community in the Scranton area. Prices remain accessible, making it an attractive option for those looking to put down roots without a prohibitive financial burden, contributing to a stable and invested residential base.

Schools & Education

Olyphant is served by the Mid Valley School District, which also encompasses neighboring Throop, Dickson City, and Jessup. The district operates Mid Valley Secondary Center (housing both the middle and high schools) in nearby Throop, and the Mid Valley Elementary Center located in Olyphant itself. The schools are a focal point of community pride and involvement, with strong athletic traditions and extracurricular programs that reinforce the borough's tight-knit social fabric.

For private education, residents have access to several Catholic schools within the Scranton area, including the nearby All Saints Academy. Higher education opportunities are conveniently close, with Lackawanna College's satellite campus in nearby Dickson City and the main campuses of the University of Scranton and Marywood University just a short drive away in Scranton. This proximity provides educational and cultural enrichment for residents of all ages.

Parks & Recreation

Olyphant offers several community-focused recreational spaces. The crown jewel is the Olyphant Borough Park, a central hub featuring playgrounds, picnic pavilions, basketball courts, and a walking path. It hosts community events throughout the year, including summer concerts and holiday celebrations, serving as the literal and figurative town common. Additionally, the Olyphant Recreation Complex provides facilities for organized sports, particularly baseball and softball, for youth and adult leagues.

For more extensive outdoor activities, residents are just minutes from the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, a multi-use trail perfect for walking, cycling, and running that connects to a larger network throughout the county. The nearby Nay Aug Park in Scranton, with its pools, hiking trails, and zoo, is also easily accessible. The borough's location at the edge of the Pocono Mountains means more ambitious hiking, skiing, and water activities are within a 30-45 minute drive.

Local Dining & Shopping

Olyphant's commercial life is anchored along South Valley Avenue, where a mix of long-standing local businesses and newer ventures create a convenient and charming main street. Dining options reflect the area's blue-collar roots and ethnic heritage, with beloved pizza shops, family-owned diners, and pubs being community staples. Establishments like the Olyphant Diner and various pizzerias serve as casual gathering spots where neighbors frequently meet.

For shopping, residents benefit from a practical mix of small retail shops, service businesses, and essential services like pharmacies and banks all within the borough. A major shopping draw is the nearby Viewmont Mall and the dense commercial strip along Route 6 in Dickson City, which is less than five minutes away and offers big-box retailers, grocery stores (including Gerrity's Supermarket, a local chain), and a wider array of national chain restaurants. This blend provides everyday convenience locally and one-stop shopping just a short drive away.

Who Lives Here

Olyphant is characterized by a deeply rooted, multi-generational population with strong family and community ties. Many residents have lived in the borough or the greater Valley for their entire lives, creating a stable and interconnected social network. The community vibe is authentically friendly, unpretentious, and resilient, reflecting the area's industrial history. There is a palpable sense of local pride and civic engagement, with active volunteer fire departments, community groups, and support for local schools and sports teams.

Today, Olyphant continues to attract working-class and middle-class families seeking an affordable, safe, and close-knit community. It also draws first-time homebuyers and individuals who appreciate its small-town atmosphere paired with the

Olyphant Market Data

Top Real Estate Agents in Olyphant, Scranton

Nearby Neighborhoods in Scranton, PA

← Back to all Scranton, PA real estate agents

← Back to all Pennsylvania real estate agents