Oberlin PA

Oberlin, PA: A Small Community with a Strong Local Identity

Oberlin, PA, with a population of 452, boasts a strong local identity characterized by its family-friendly atmosphere. The demographic data from the 2020 Census Bureau indicates that residents of Oberlin enjoy a smaller community, compared to the national average, where workers engage in various local activities.

The real estate market reflects the median sale prices that cater to a range of families, while nearby neighborhoods offer additional options. According to AccuWeather, the weather during February can influence community events, such as local parties and games, fostering a sense of camaraderie among neighbors.

Oberlin’s industry is diverse, supporting a robust workforce that thrives on academic initiatives and community meetings, including those attended by the local senator. A recent review of the town’s atmosphere reveals a commitment to health care and addressing challenges such as flooding, further solidifying its niche within the suburban landscape of the United States.

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Location of Oberlin, PA

Oberlin is located in Swatara Township, Dauphin County. It lies just south of Route 322 and east of Interstate 83. This makes travel to Harrisburg quick and easy.

The area is close to other communities like Lawnton, Steelton, and Rutherford. These towns share services and road access.

The nearby Harrisburg International Airport sits only 10 miles southeast of Oberlin. This allows for easy regional and national travel.

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Housing in Oberlin, PA

Oberlin includes mostly single-family homes. Some duplexes and rental properties are available.

Many houses are older but well-kept. Yards are common. Trees line many streets.

The area has a low population. This keeps housing prices stable. It also gives residents space and quiet.

New development is limited. Most homes are part of established streets and blocks. When plumbing issues arise in these older homes, residents often contact an emergency plumber in Middletown PA due to the nearby location and fast service.

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Schools Serving Oberlin, PA

Oberlin falls under the Central Dauphin School District. This district serves a wide area and includes many public schools.

Nearby schools include:

• Lawnton Elementary School

• Central Dauphin East Middle School

• Central Dauphin East High School

These schools offer standard public education. Programs include sports, music, and technical training.

There are also nearby private and charter school options. These include religious schools and independent learning centers.

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Parks and Recreation in Oberlin, PA

Oberlin has access to several parks and outdoor spaces.

Oberlin Park is a small neighborhood park. It has open grass, trees, and benches.

Nearby parks include:

• Schiavoni Park in Swatara Township

• Kohl Memorial Park in Lawnton

• Cameron Parkway Trail near Steelton

These spaces provide walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds.

The Capital Area Greenbelt is a larger network of trails. It circles much of Harrisburg and connects to Swatara Township.

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Jobs and Local Economy

Many Oberlin residents work in Harrisburg or nearby towns.

Common job sectors include:

• Government

• Healthcare

• Transportation

• Retail

• Education

Major employers in the region include:

• Penn State Health

• UPMC Pinnacle

• The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

• FedEx and UPS distribution centers

• Harrisburg International Airport

Some small businesses also operate locally. These include repair shops, offices, and restaurants.

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Transportation in Oberlin, PA

Oberlin sits close to several major roads. These include:

• Interstate 83

• U.S. Route 322

• State Route 441

This makes driving fast and efficient. Commutes to downtown Harrisburg take about 10 to 15 minutes.

Public transit is available through Capital Area Transit (CAT). Bus lines run along nearby major roads and serve parts of Oberlin.

The Harrisburg Transportation Center offers Amtrak rail service. It connects to Philadelphia, New York, and Pittsburgh.

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Shopping and Dining in Oberlin, PA

Oberlin has limited retail options inside the community. However, shopping centers are close by.

Nearby places for shopping include:

• High Pointe Commons (Target, Giant, restaurants)

• Colonial Park Mall (stores and service businesses)

• Paxton Towne Centre (groceries, fashion, electronics)

Dining options include fast food, diners, and sit-down restaurants. Styles include American, Italian, Mexican, and Asian food.

Steelton and Harrisburg offer even more choices for shopping and dining.

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Healthcare Access

Healthcare services are available near Oberlin.

Local clinics and medical offices provide family medicine and urgent care.

Nearby hospitals include:

• UPMC Harrisburg

• Penn State Health Harrisburg Medical Center

• Rite Aid and CVS pharmacies for medicine

Emergency and specialist care is available within a 15-minute drive.

Residents have good access to both general and advanced healthcare.

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Public Services and Utilities

Oberlin falls under Swatara Township’s local government.

The township provides police, fire, and emergency response.

Garbage, recycling, water, and sewer services are also handled at the township level.

Electricity and gas services come from PPL Electric and UGI Utilities.

Internet and cable are available from major providers like Xfinity and Verizon.

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Community Events and Culture

Oberlin values quiet living, but nearby areas host regular events.

Annual local events include:

• Swatara Township Fall Festival

• Dauphin County Cultural Fest

• Fireworks displays for July 4th

• Farmers markets in Harrisburg and Steelton

Nearby libraries, churches, and community centers offer public programs and classes.

Residents enjoy both small-town peace and access to larger public events.

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Safety and Law Enforcement

Oberlin benefits from the services of the Swatara Township Police Department.

Police patrol the area and respond to calls. The community has low crime compared to urban areas.

Local fire and emergency services are also active and responsive.

Sidewalks, street lighting, and speed controls improve safety in residential zones.

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Local Demographics

Oberlin has a small and stable population.

Residents include a mix of retirees, families, and working adults.

Many people have lived in the area for decades. Others moved for affordability and location.

The community is diverse in age, job background, and culture. When plumbing problems happen, some residents rely on emergency plumbing in Steelton PA due to its nearby services and quick response.

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Nearby Attractions

Oberlin residents can reach many attractions quickly.

Popular nearby places include:

• Downtown Harrisburg (museums, restaurants, Capitol building)

• City Island (baseball, mini-golf, walking paths)

• Hersheypark (amusement park and entertainment)

• Fort Hunter Mansion and Park

• National Civil War Museum

These destinations provide entertainment, learning, and recreation.

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Summary of Oberlin, PA

Oberlin, PA is a small, quiet neighborhood near Harrisburg. It offers a peaceful setting with easy access to jobs, schools, shopping, and parks.

The community includes older homes, local parks, and basic services. Residents enjoy short commutes and good transit.

Public schools, healthcare, and safety services support families and individuals. The area fits people who want simple living with nearby city access.

Oberlin is a good choice for stable, quiet living in central Pennsylvania.