Downtown Easton Pennsylvania cityscape with local shops and restaurants

Easton

Northampton County · Population: 30,432

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Updated On: August 2026

Community Overview

Easton is the county seat of Northampton County, Pennsylvania, with a population of 30,432 as of the 2020 census. Situated at the confluence of the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers, Easton is one of the Lehigh Valley's three major cities and a historic river town with a revitalized downtown, arts scene, and growing food culture.

Tree-lined residential neighborhood in Easton PA
Scenic parks and outdoor recreation in Easton Lehigh Valley
Local dining scene and restaurants in Easton PA

History

Easton was founded in 1752 by William Parsons at the request of Thomas Penn. The city holds a significant place in American history as one of the first three cities where the Declaration of Independence was publicly read on July 8, 1776, along with Philadelphia and Trenton. Easton was also the site of the Treaty of Easton in 1758 during the French and Indian War. The city grew as a canal and railroad hub, and its industrial past is reflected in the preserved architecture throughout the Easton Historic District.

Historic Easton Pennsylvania community life and heritage

Community Highlights

One of three cities where the Declaration of Independence was first publicly read
Easton Historic District with significant pre-WWII architecture
State Theatre Center for the Arts, restored 1926 movie palace
National Canal Museum, exploring America's canal heritage
Centre Square, downtown hub with weekly farmers markets
Hugh Moore Park and the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor
ArtsTrail and Gallery 263 art scene

Why People Love Living in Easton

Discover the lifestyle, community spirit, and everyday pleasures that make Easton a wonderful place to call home.

Walkable Downtown

Centre Square buzzes with the nation's oldest continuously operating farmers' market, independent shops, galleries, and a growing restaurant scene.

American Revolution Heritage

One of only three cities where the Declaration of Independence was first publicly read in 1776, Easton is steeped in founding-era history.

Rising Food Destination

From Centre Square bistros to the West Ward's emerging dining scene, Easton's culinary reputation has grown into a genuine food-lover's destination.

River Trail Lifestyle

The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor offers 165 miles of connected trails, with riverfront access right from downtown.

Arts & Entertainment

The State Theatre Center for the Arts hosts Broadway-caliber shows, while Gallery 263 and ArtsTrail support a vibrant local creative community.

Strong Investment Appeal

Downtown revitalization, the waterfront district, and proximity to the NYC metro area have driven consistent appreciation and investor interest.

Local Amenities

  • St. Luke's Hospital, Easton Campus
  • Easton Farmers' Market, oldest continuously operating open-air market in the U.S.
  • Multiple grocery stores including Weis, Giant, and Walmart
  • Diverse dining in the downtown and waterfront districts
  • Easton Public Library
  • Multiple fitness centers and community recreation programs

Parks & Recreation

  • Hugh Moore Park, Delaware Canal towpath and Lehigh Canal boat rides
  • Riverside Park, riverfront recreation along the Lehigh River
  • Scott Park, trails and open space along the Delaware River
  • Palmer Park, community park with sports facilities
  • Jones Park, neighborhood park with playgrounds
  • Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, 165-mile trail system
Parks and outdoor recreation in Easton Lehigh Valley
Dining and local restaurants in Easton Pennsylvania

Shopping & Dining

  • Downtown Easton, independent shops, galleries, and restaurants
  • Easton Farmers' Market (Saturdays, year-round)
  • Centre Square dining and nightlife district
  • Northampton Crossings, major retail center nearby
  • West Ward neighborhood emerging dining scene
  • Third Street cafes and boutique shopping

Transportation Access

  • Interstate 78, east to New Jersey and New York City
  • Route 22, east-west corridor through the Lehigh Valley
  • Route 611, connecting to Philadelphia suburbs
  • Delaware River bridge access to New Jersey
  • LANTA bus system, regional public transit
  • Easton is approximately 70 miles from New York City and 60 miles from Philadelphia

Real Estate in Easton

Easton's real estate market reflects its position as both a historic river city and a growing suburban community. The downtown and historic districts offer character homes with walkable access to restaurants, shops, and cultural venues. Surrounding townships like Palmer and Forks provide newer suburban single-family homes with larger lots. The waterfront area has seen renewed interest with development projects along the river.

Types of Homes

  • Historic Victorian and Federal-style homes in the city center
  • Rowhomes and townhomes in the West Ward and South Side
  • Single-family homes in Palmer and Forks Townships
  • Waterfront properties along the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers
  • New construction in surrounding suburbs

Market Trends

Easton has experienced appreciation driven by its downtown revitalization, cultural scene, and proximity to both the Lehigh Valley and the New Jersey/New York metro area. The farmers' market, arts venues, and restaurant scene continue to draw new residents and investors. New construction in Palmer and Forks Townships adds modern housing inventory at various price points.

View Lehigh Valley Market Data Read the July 2026 Market Update

Ready to Explore Homes in Easton?

Contact Tim Tepes for current listings and market insights specific to Easton.

Schools in Easton

The Easton area is served by local school districts providing public education. Below are the districts and key schools serving the community.

Things to Do in Easton

Visit the Easton Farmers' Market, oldest in the nation
Tour the National Canal Museum
See a show at the State Theatre Center for the Arts
Walk the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor trails
Explore the Easton Historic District on foot
Ride a canal boat at Hugh Moore Park
Dine in the downtown and waterfront restaurant scene
Attend the annual Easton Fair and community festivals

Frequently Asked Questions About Easton

What is the average home price in Easton?
Median home prices in Easton range from approximately $250,000 to $370,000 depending on the neighborhood and property type. Downtown historic homes and waterfront properties may command premium values, while suburban areas in Palmer and Forks Townships offer more moderate pricing.
Is Easton walkable?
Downtown Easton is one of the more walkable areas in the Lehigh Valley, with shops, restaurants, farmers' markets, and cultural venues all within walking distance. The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor trails also provide car-free recreation and commuting options along the riverfront.
What school district serves Easton?
The Easton Area School District serves approximately 7,900 to 9,000 students across the city and surrounding townships. Lafayette College is also located in Easton.
What are the best things to do in Easton?
Easton offers the Easton Farmers' Market, the oldest continuously operating open-air market in the U.S., the National Canal Museum, the State Theatre Center for the Arts, the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor trails, canal boat rides at Hugh Moore Park, and a growing downtown restaurant scene.
What types of homes are available in Easton?
Easton features historic Victorian and Federal-style homes in the city center, rowhomes and townhomes in the West Ward and South Side, single-family homes in Palmer and Forks Townships, waterfront properties along the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers, and new construction in surrounding suburbs.
Is Easton a good area for families?
Easton offers diverse housing options, the Easton Area School District, riverfront trails and parks, a walkable downtown, and proximity to Lafayette College. Palmer and Forks Townships provide suburban neighborhoods with larger lots and newer construction, making the area suitable for families at various price points.

Interested in investment properties in Easton? Check out Tim's Investment Properties Guide for cap rates, tax advantages, and wealth-building strategies.

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