Downtown Northern Lehigh Pennsylvania cityscape with local shops and restaurants

Northern Lehigh

Lehigh County · Population: ~12,817

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Updated On: August 2026

Community Overview

The Northern Lehigh area encompasses communities in the northern corridor of Lehigh County served by the Northern Lehigh School District, with a regional population of approximately 12,817 and about 5,454 housing units. This area offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience, with scenic landscapes and a strong community identity.

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

History

The Northern Lehigh area developed from early agricultural and mining communities in the northern Lehigh Valley. Towns like Slatington and Walnutport grew around the slate quarrying industry and the Lehigh Canal, which provided transportation for goods and materials. The area retains its heritage while offering modern suburban amenities and growing residential development.

Historic Northern Lehigh Pennsylvania community life and heritage

Community Highlights

Northern Lehigh School District
Scenic northern Lehigh Valley landscape
Slatington and Walnutport, historic canal and slate towns
Lehigh Canal and D&L National Heritage Corridor
Rural and suburban living options
Competitive home prices
Access to outdoor recreation and trails

Why People Love Living in Northern Lehigh

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

Canal Heritage & Trails

The D&L National Heritage Corridor towpath runs through Slatington and Walnutport, offering miles of walking, biking, and paddling along the historic Lehigh Canal.

Blue Mountain at Your Doorstep

Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking at Blue Mountain are just minutes away, a four-season outdoor playground for active families.

Rural Beauty & Space

Rolling hills, farmland views, and properties with acreage define Northern Lehigh, ideal for those seeking a quieter setting without sacrificing convenience.

Historic Canal Towns

Slatington and Walnutport retain their slate and canal-era character, with historic homes and walkable downtowns rooted in 19th-century heritage.

Competitive Pricing

Housing in Northern Lehigh offers excellent value, from historic canal town homes to rural properties, attracting buyers seeking space and affordability.

Highway Connectivity

Route 309 and Route 873 provide direct access to I-78 and the broader Lehigh Valley employment corridor.

Local Amenities

  • Northern Lehigh School District
  • Local shopping in Slatington and surrounding areas
  • Community recreation facilities
  • Proximity to Route 873 and Route 309
  • Public library and community programs

Parks & Recreation

  • Lehigh Canal Towpath, D&L National Heritage Corridor trails
  • Walnutport community parks
  • Slatington recreational areas
  • Blue Mountain nearby for hiking and skiing
Parks and outdoor recreation in Northern Lehigh Lehigh Valley
Dining and local restaurants in Northern Lehigh Pennsylvania

Shopping & Dining

  • Slatington downtown shops
  • Route 309 corridor, major retail
  • Allentown dining and shopping, 20 minutes
  • Local community restaurants

Transportation Access

  • Route 873, north-south local corridor
  • Route 309, major north-south highway
  • I-78, 15 minutes south
  • Lehigh Valley International Airport, 25 minutes

Real Estate in Northern Lehigh

The Northern Lehigh area offers a range of housing options at competitive price points, from historic canal town homes to rural properties with acreage. The area appeals to buyers seeking more space and a quieter setting while remaining within commuting distance of the Lehigh Valley's employment centers.

Types of Homes

  • Single-family homes in established communities
  • Rural properties with acreage
  • New construction in growing areas
  • Historic homes in Slatington and Walnutport
  • Properties along the Lehigh Canal corridor

Market Trends

Northern Lehigh has seen steady interest from buyers seeking rural and semi-rural properties with space. The area's natural beauty, trail access, and proximity to Blue Mountain contribute to its appeal. Development continues in areas near major highway corridors.

View Lehigh Valley Market Data Read the July 2026 Market Update

Ready to Explore Homes in Northern Lehigh?

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

Schools in Northern Lehigh

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

Things to Do in Northern Lehigh

Walk or bike the D&L National Heritage Corridor towpath
Explore the historic Slatington waterfront
Visit Blue Mountain for skiing and outdoor recreation
Attend community events in Slatington and Walnutport
Fish and kayak on the Lehigh River

Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Lehigh

What communities are in Northern Lehigh?
The Northern Lehigh area includes communities such as Slatington, Walnutport, and surrounding townships in the northern corridor of Lehigh County, served by the Northern Lehigh School District.
Is Northern Lehigh rural or suburban?
Northern Lehigh offers a mix of both. The canal towns provide small-town community living while surrounding areas offer rural properties with acreage. Newer developments near highway corridors add suburban options.
What is the average home price in Northern Lehigh?
Northern Lehigh offers competitive home prices, with housing available at price points below the Lehigh Valley median. The area features historic canal town homes, newer construction, and rural properties with acreage, providing options for buyers at various budgets.
What school district serves Northern Lehigh?
The Northern Lehigh School District serves communities in the northern corridor of Lehigh County, including Slatington, Walnutport, and surrounding townships.
What are the best things to do in Northern Lehigh?
Residents enjoy walking or biking the D&L National Heritage Corridor towpath, exploring the historic Slatington waterfront, skiing and hiking at Blue Mountain, fishing and kayaking on the Lehigh River, and attending community events in Slatington and Walnutport.
What types of homes are available in Northern Lehigh?
Northern Lehigh offers single-family homes in established communities, rural properties with acreage, new construction in growing areas, historic homes in Slatington and Walnutport, and properties along the Lehigh Canal corridor. The variety supports buyers seeking space and affordability.

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

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