Lower Allen is a census-designated place (CDP) in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, and was created when the city got its name as the result of a church split. During the midst of the fracas, one of the factions of the church started meeting outdoors on a hill. On a more positive note, the region is home to the Mid-Atlantic-based drug store company Rite Aid.
As Lower Allen is a CDP, it's fair to classify it as being more of a neighborhood, at about 2
Lower Allen is a census-designated place (CDP) in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, and was created when the city got its name as the result of a church split. During the midst of the fracas, one of the factions of the church started meeting outdoors on a hill. On a more positive note, the region is home to the Mid-Atlantic-based drug store company Rite Aid.
As Lower Allen is a CDP, it's fair to classify it as being more of a neighborhood, at about 2.4 square miles. West of Harrisburg, the area can be reached by taking I-581 Southbound from I-83. Exiting on to I-15 and taking it Eastbound, you'll run straight into the heart of Lower Allen. In terms of population, the area is relatively small at 6,694; but there is more than enough housing to find an apartment to rent in Lower Allen.
Lower Allen's base is made of homeowners, which provides a steadying influence on the area. If you were to look at the numbers, you'd find that about 75% of the housing is both owner occupied and single family homes. The vacancy rate is only 3.82%, indicating that people don't move once they decide to live here.
The Rental Market in Lower Allen
Although there is traditional apartment living available in the way of high rises and apartment complexes, you can have a little more if you're willing to go up in size, amenities and pricing by investigating duplexes for rent or even furnished apartments.
Housing in Lower Allen is on the older end of the spectrum, as over 85% was built before 1969. Whether you choose a 2 bedroom apartment or duplex for rent, you should be looking to get pricing that will help you to budget effectively. All bills paid apartments (or almost all bills) are available to those who can find owners willing to work with them.
If you're looking for high rise or apartment complex living, expect to be ready to go through an application process that may seem a little strict. Remember, there isn't much in the way of vacancy in Lower Allen, so management companies can be a little choosy. Be ready to write a check for a security deposit as well as your first and last month's rent. For those looking for standard 2 bedroom apartments to choose from, there are more than enough available.
Lower Allen is divided into approximately two neighborhoods, and both have their own distinct appeal. Make sure to research as much as possible before locking down to a new place.
West Lower Allen: West Lower Allen is basically a neighborhood in Camp Hill, so you will find some overlap between both the Eastside and Westside in concept. However, you'll find a richness of family style living throughout the area. Because of the number of small Main Street-style businesses mixed into suburban strip mall living, Lower Allen is considered to be an ideal place for anyone to live. You can find a number of quiet places to read and study like Cornerstone Coffee House.
East Lower Allen: The range of available rental housing is pretty wide in East Lower Allen. The Village of Highland Park has 2 bedroom apartments, exercise facilities and a pool for its residents. Meanwhile, depending on whether or not you're a retiree, you can find furnished apartments at The Meadows at Bumble Bee. Both Mallard Run Apartments and Orchard Apartments will present you the 1-2 bedroom options that you'd expect.
While there is public transportation available in Lower Allen, you'll definitely need a car to take in everything the area has to offer. You'll typically see West Shore Stadium full of parents and high school students taking in a game for Camp Hill and Cedar Crest High Schools. Then, you'll drive by the Lower Allen Community Park and see a number of seniors taking in a quiet afternoon.
If cooking is not your thing, or you just want to eat out, there are restaurants to satisfy your palate. Of course, if you're looking for chain restaurants that you're familiar with, you'll find them clustered on the main streets and mall areas. But if you're willing to travel off the beaten path and find something that is a little more family focused, Lower Allen will oblige. Two of the notable spots with American fare include the Masala Bistro and the Brewhouse Grille.
