Want to live in one of the best suburbs of Pittsburgh? Then, McDonald, PA should be on your radar. This Pittsburgh suburb has just over 2,100 residents, offering a blend of small-town charm and convenient proximity to the city. It’s a great place to live for families, professionals, and retirees. With a low cost of living, excellent schools, and a variety of entertainment, McDonald is quickly becoming a sought-after location for those looking to settle down near Pittsburgh.
Should My Family Move to McDonald, Pennsylvania?
Cost of Living and Quality of Life
McDonald, PA, located just 18 miles southwest of Pittsburgh, offers a lower cost of living compared to the urban center and other major cities. The cost of living in McDonald is approximately 10% lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live without sacrificing quality of life. Housing is a significant factor in this affordability. Here, you’ll find several homes for sale near Pittsburgh that cater to different budgets and preferences.
Along with affordable living, McDonald has all the ingredients for a high quality of life. It’s a tight-knit community with a thriving economy due to agriculture and small businesses with technology and healthcare being primary industries for job seekers. Natural beauty is abundant here, and combined with 4-season weather, it provides the perfect setting for outdoor recreation. From grocery shopping and retail stores to schools and fun things to do, you’re not too far from whatever you need in McDonald.
Education: Fort Cherry School District
Education is a top priority for families considering a move to McDonald. The town is served by the Fort Cherry School District, known for its commitment to academic excellence and student development. The district offers a robust curriculum, a variety of extracurricular activities, and a supportive learning environment. Students receive individual attention with a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio; teachers are well-trained (100% are licensed and over 95% have three or more years of experience).
Entertainment In and Near McDonald
McDonald, PA boasts a friendly community atmosphere, which is enhanced by local attractions like the well-known PK Winery. Since opening in 2007, this local gem has become popular for its selection of wines and social events. They have recently won many awards for their unique wines. PK Winery offers a cozy, welcoming environment where neighbors can gather and enjoy a taste of the local culture.
For families with children, McDonald’s proximity to Pittsburgh is a major advantage. The city is a short drive away, offering access to a wide range of activities and places to visit. There are numerous attractions to keep kids entertained and engaged such as the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Carnegie Science Center, Children’s Museum, Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park, Steelers at Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena.
Even More Fun in Store
1. Biking & Events at the McDonald Trail Station
For biking enthusiasts, the Panhandle Trail offers a scenic and enjoyable route that connects McDonald to various other communities. At the heart of this trail is the McDonald Trail Station, a unique facility that serves both the Panhandle and Montour Trails. The Trail Station is more than just a rest stop; it features an extensive exhibit on local history and acts as a welcome center for trail users. There are also various seasonal events happening on weekends from April through October.
- Summer Farmers Markets: A lively farmers market held every Saturday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm from July through September.
- The Grand Theater: A perfect spot for family fun and community engagement, the old Grand Theater hosts music performances, street vendors, children’s activities, food, carriage rides, a meet-and-greet with Santa, and fireworks!
2. McSummerfest
This annual festival offers a week of family-friendly fun with carnival rides, games, food vendors, live entertainment, and fireworks. It’s a must-attend event for locals and visitors alike.
3. Local Homegrown Family Farms
- Geary Farm: Known for its July Jamboree and a host of other events throughout the year, Geary Farm provides a delightful country living experience. Meet farm animals like goats, pigs, miniature ponies, donkeys, and cows while enjoying the sights and sounds of the farm.
- Bedner’s Farm: This U-pick farm is perfect for family outings, offering the experience of picking your own flowers and veggies. You can also shop unique finds at the store and enjoy annual events like Pumpkin Palooza.
4. Golfing:
- Fort Cherry Golf Club: This country club offers a challenging 18-hole course in a beautiful setting, ideal for both seasoned golfers and beginners. Additional amenities include a hotel, restaurant, bar, concessions stand, and banquet rooms.
- Quicksilver Golf Club: Known for its premier golfing experience, this course provides a great outing for golf enthusiasts. The award-winning course offers lush fairways and greens, along with fine dining at the club.
5. The Pavilion at Star Lake
Just a 20-minute drive from McDonald, the Pavilion at Star Lake hosts major concerts and events, making it a convenient spot for music lovers to catch their favorite artists live.
Homes for Sale in McDonald, PA
When looking for homes for sale in McDonald, PA, there’s no shortage of beautiful options by Eddy Homes in our Cherry Valley Lakeview Estates, a low-maintenance community in Washington County, PA. This community offers luxury living centered around a pristine 40-acre lake.
There are numerous reasons people seek homes near a lake. Living near a lake has numerous benefits, from enhanced mental well-being to increased opportunities for outdoor recreation. Neighbors become close friends easily with shared interests in water activities like boating and fishing. Kids have endless fun swimming and playing. The sunrises and sunsets are unbeatable by the lake, providing a calming break from the day-to-day routine.
Eddy Homes is building new construction homes at Cherry Valley Lakeview Estates, where peace and quiet are found at every turn with stunning views of natural beauty and tons of outdoor activities to enjoy. It’s tucked away from the noise but close to everything you need. There are nearby picnic areas, lakeside walking trails, hiking, fishing, boating, and much more. Though it seems like it’s in a world all its own, there are still daily conveniences nearby like major interstates, shopping malls, grocery stores, and restaurants.
