Best Areas Around Hershey, PA to Buy Land and Build a Home

If you are considering building your dream home in Pennsylvania, the Hershey area offers a compelling combination of natural beauty, convenient access to urban amenities, and strong community values. Located in Lancaster County in southeastern Pennsylvania, Hershey has become an increasingly popular destination for homebuyers seeking to establish roots in a vibrant, family-friendly region. Whether you are drawn to the area for its proximity to Hersheypark, its agricultural heritage, or its excellent schools, understanding the best neighborhoods and surrounding communities can help you make an informed decision about where to purchase land and build your new home.

The Hershey region has experienced steady growth over the past decade, with new residential developments emerging in nearby townships and boroughs. This expansion has created numerous opportunities for those looking to acquire land and construct custom homes tailored to their specific needs and preferences. From scenic rural properties with expansive acreage to suburban lots in established neighborhoods, the area offers options for virtually every lifestyle and budget. Let me guide you through some of the most desirable areas where you can find excellent land opportunities and build the home of your imagination.

West Hershey and Derry Township

West Hershey and Derry Township represent some of the most desirable areas for residential development around the chocolate town. These communities offer a perfect balance between rural charm and convenient access to local amenities, shopping centers, and employment opportunities. Properties in this region tend to feature larger lot sizes, allowing homeowners to enjoy privacy and natural surroundings while remaining close enough to enjoy everything that Hershey has to offer. Many families are attracted to these areas because of the excellent schools, spacious properties, and strong sense of community that characterizes Derry Township.

When looking for land in West Hershey, you will find a mix of wooded properties, farmland, and established residential neighborhoods. The combination of natural scenities and modern conveniences makes this area particularly appealing for those who want to build a custom home without sacrificing accessibility to schools, healthcare, and entertainment options. Real estate agents report strong interest in this region, particularly among families relocating from urban centers who want more space and a slower pace of life while maintaining convenient access to regional attractions and services.

Hummelstown and South Londonderry Township

Hummelstown represents another excellent option for land buyers considering construction in the Hershey area. This charming borough has experienced significant revitalization in recent years, attracting new residents and businesses alike. The proximity to Route 422 provides convenient access to both local attractions and broader regional connectivity, making it ideal for commuters who work in surrounding areas while wanting to maintain connections to the Hershey community.

South Londonderry Township, which encompasses parts of Hummelstown, offers larger parcels of land perfect for custom home construction. The township maintains a rural character while being situated within a growing economic region. Properties here tend to be more affordable than those directly in Hershey proper, yet they offer comparable access to schools, shopping, and recreation. Many builders and developers have recognized the potential of this area, leading to the creation of several new residential communities with modern infrastructure and attractive design standards. If you prefer a quieter setting with room to spread out, this township deserves serious consideration.

East Lampeter Township and Ephrata

Moving slightly east, East Lampeter Township and Ephrata offer additional opportunities for those seeking to build homes in the broader Hershey region. These communities represent the historical heart of Lancaster County, with strong agricultural traditions and a commitment to preserving the region’s unique character. Properties in these townships often feature beautiful views of farmland and rolling hills, creating a picturesque backdrop for new residential construction.

East Lampeter Township in particular has seen increased interest from builders and developers looking to create new residential communities that respect the area’s character while providing modern amenities and housing options. The township’s strong planning and zoning regulations ensure that new development complements existing neighborhoods and agricultural operations. If you value scenic views, larger lot sizes, and a connection to Pennsylvania Dutch heritage and culture, these areas deserve exploration. Schools in this region maintain excellent reputations, and the community continues to invest in infrastructure improvements that enhance quality of life for residents.

Lititz and Warwick Township

For those seeking a more established community with a unique character, Lititz and Warwick Township offer compelling options. Lititz is known for its charming downtown, excellent restaurants and shops, and strong commitment to community events and celebrations. The borough has undergone careful revitalization efforts that have transformed it into a destination for those seeking small-town living with contemporary amenities. Properties in and around Lititz tend to command slightly higher prices than other areas covered here, but they offer unparalleled character and access to unique community experiences.

Warwick Township surrounds Lititz and provides additional land opportunities for home builders. This area maintains a more rural character while being within minutes of Lititz’s vibrant downtown and all the social and cultural activities it offers. The combination of open space, natural beauty, and access to community resources makes Warwick Township attractive to families and individuals who want to balance rural living with convenient access to services and entertainment. Real estate in this region has proven to be an excellent long-term investment, with property values appreciating steadily over recent years.

Akron and Clay Township

Finally, the Akron area and Clay Township round out the excellent options available to those considering building a home in the greater Hershey region. Akron is a small, welcoming borough with strong community traditions and excellent schools. The area feels removed from the hustle and bustle while still maintaining convenient connectivity to Hershey and other regional centers. Properties here offer excellent value compared to some other areas, particularly if you are looking for larger parcels of land where you can build without compromising on square footage or outdoor space.

Clay Township extends the options available to land buyers, with properties ranging from small residential lots to significant acreage suitable for estates or agricultural pursuits. The township has experienced growth in recent years as more people discover the advantages of this location. Infrastructure improvements and new residential developments continue to make the area increasingly attractive to families and professionals. The township’s commitment to preserving open space while allowing for appropriate development has created a community that feels spacious and connected simultaneously.

Conclusion

The Hershey, Pennsylvania area offers diverse opportunities for those looking to purchase land and build their dream homes. Whether you prefer the established character of communities like Lititz, the rural charm of East Lampeter or South Londonderry Township, or the suburban convenience of Derry Township, the region provides options to suit virtually every preference and budget. Each area offers its own unique advantages, from excellent schools to strong community values to beautiful natural surroundings. By exploring these communities and working with local real estate professionals who understand the region, you can find the perfect location to build the home you have always wanted while joining a vibrant, welcoming community.

Need Custom Luxury Home Builders Near You?

WSL Incorporated (WSL Inc.) is a full-service design/build company located in New Bloomfield, PA. For more than 30 years, we have been building affordable custom homes, as well as remodeling homes, in central Pennsylvania. Our company offers professional project management services from the start of the design phase all the way through to the warranty services, and we have in-house designers available to create a customized plan for you. No matter what the size, budget or needs of your project, WSL Inc. will help you every step of the way. We will make sure your project is completed to your satisfaction.  Call us today at 717-582-3423, we look forward to hearing from you!