Shavertown, Wilkes-Barre, PA

Shavertown Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Shavertown is a well-established, primarily residential neighborhood located in the Dallas School District, just south of the city of Wilkes-Barre in Luzerne County. While not technically within Wilkes-Barre city limits, it is a core part of the greater Wilkes-Barre metropolitan area and is often grouped with the city's suburban communities. The area's character is defined by its quiet, tree-lined streets, a strong sense of community, and a convenient location that offers suburban tranquility with easy access to urban amenities and major highways like Route 309 and the Cross Valley Expressway.

The neighborhood's history is rooted in the 19th century, originally developed around the Shavertown Hotel, a stagecoach stop. Its growth accelerated in the mid-20th century as a suburb for families and professionals working in Wilkes-Barre and the surrounding Wyoming Valley. Today, Shavertown maintains a reputation as a stable, desirable community that blends traditional neighborhood charm with modern convenience, serving as a hub for the Back Mountain region.

Housing & Real Estate

Shavertown's housing stock is predominantly composed of single-family homes, ranging from classic mid-century ranches and Capes to larger split-levels and two-story colonials built from the 1950s through the 1980s. More recent construction includes upscale developments with larger lot sizes on the neighborhood's outskirts. The architectural style is generally traditional and well-maintained, reflecting the area's steady growth as a post-war suburb.

The real estate market in Shavertown is competitive, often considered a premium area within Luzerne County due to the highly regarded Dallas School District. Home prices are typically higher than the county median, with a range generally spanning from the mid-$200,000s for smaller, older homes to over $500,000 for newer or extensively renovated properties. The area is overwhelmingly owner-occupied, with a relatively low rental market, contributing to its stable and invested community feel.

Schools & Education

Shavertown is served by the Dallas School District, which is consistently ranked among the top public school districts in the Wilkes-Barre area and Luzerne County. Students typically attend Dallas Elementary School, Dallas Middle School, and Dallas High School. The district is known for strong academic programs, extracurricular activities, and modern facilities, which is a primary draw for families moving to the neighborhood.

In addition to the public schools, several private and parochial school options are available nearby, including Holy Redeemer High School and various elementary schools in the Back Mountain region. For higher education, the campus of Wilkes University, King's College, and Luzerne County Community College are all within a reasonable commuting distance, providing accessible opportunities for advanced study.

Parks & Recreation

Residents enjoy access to several community parks and green spaces. The nearby Dallas Area Recreation Park is a major hub, featuring athletic fields, playgrounds, walking paths, and a community pool. Frances Slocum State Park, a short drive away, offers extensive outdoor activities including hiking, boating, fishing, and picnicking around its 165-acre lake, providing a significant natural resource for the community.

Local recreation is community-focused, with numerous youth sports leagues for soccer, baseball, and football operating through the Dallas Area Recreation Association. The Back Mountain Trail, a popular multi-use rail-trail ideal for walking, running, and biking, runs nearby and connects several communities. For winter sports, the nearby Ice Rink at the Toyota Sportsplex offers skating and hockey programs.

Local Dining & Shopping

Shavertown's commercial corridor along Memorial Highway (Route 415) and in the adjacent Shavertown Crossroads shopping center provides ample daily convenience. Dining options range from casual family-owned pizzerias and diners, like Grotto Pizza and The Dough Company, to popular local chains and sit-down restaurants such as Cork Bar & Restaurant. The area has a growing number of cafes and casual eateries catering to the suburban population.

For shopping, residents have easy access to major grocery stores like Weis Markets and Gerrity's Supermarket, alongside various national retailers, banks, and service businesses. While larger malls are a short drive away in Wilkes-Barre, Shavertown functions as a self-sufficient retail hub for the Back Mountain. The neighborhood also supports a variety of small local businesses, from boutiques and salons to professional services, creating a vibrant and convenient local economy.

Who Lives Here

Shavertown is largely a family-oriented community, attracting middle to upper-middle-class professionals, educators, healthcare workers, and long-time residents who value the excellent school system and safe, quiet environment. The population is predominantly homeowners, with a strong sense of neighborhood pride and community involvement. Many residents are second- or third-generation families, contributing to the area's stability and traditional feel.

The community vibe is friendly and active, with a focus on family life, school events, and local sports. It draws people seeking a suburban lifestyle without being isolated, offering a balance between peaceful residential streets and easy access to the employment centers of Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, and even the Poconos. It's a neighborhood that appeals to those looking to put down roots in a well-regarded area with a proven track record of community investment and quality of life.

Shavertown Market Data

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