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Chambersburg, PA

Frequently asked questions

Chambersburg, PA

Chambersburg is a borough in and the county seat of Franklin County, in the South Central region of Pennsylvania, United States. It is in the Cumberland Valley, which is part of the Great Appalachian Valley, and 13 miles (21 km) north of Maryland and the Mason-Dixon line and 52 miles (84 km) southwest of Harrisburg, the state capital. According to the United States Census Bureau, Chambersburg's 2020 population was 21,903. When combined with the surrounding Greene, Hamilton, and Guilford Townships, the population of Greater Chambersburg is 52,273 people. The Chambersburg, PA Metropolitan Statistical Area includes surrounding Franklin County, and in 2010 included 149,618 people.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, Chambersburg Borough is the thirteenth-largest municipality in Pennsylvania and the largest borough as measured by fiscal size as of 2016. Chambersburg Borough is organized under the Pennsylvania Borough Code and is not a home-rule municipality.

Chambersburg's settlement began in 1730 when water mills were built at Conococheague Creek and Falling Spring Creek. The town developed on both sides of these creeks. Its history includes episodes relating to the French and Indian War, the Whiskey Rebellion, John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry, and the Civil War. The borough was the only major northern community burned down by Confederate forces during the war. Residents charged the Confederates with war crimes.

Chambersburg is served by the Lincoln Highway, U.S. 30, between McConnellsburg and Gettysburg. U.S. 11, the Molly Pitcher Highway, passes through it between Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, and Hagerstown, Maryland. Interstate 81 skirts the borough to its east. The town lies approximately midpoint on US Route 30 between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. The local topography reflects both flatter areas like Philadelphia and mountainous areas like Pittsburgh. Downtown Chambersburg has occasional events such as Food Truck Festival and Apple Fest.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Chambersburg has a total area of 6.8 square miles (17.6 km²), all land. The elevation is 617 feet (188 m) above sea level. Chambersburg is located in the Cumberland Valley next to the Appalachian Mountains. It also sits right outside of Caledonia State Park, a 1,125-acre (455 ha) park with fishing and hunting areas and hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail. Also outside of Chambersburg is Michaux State Forest, an 85,000-acre (34,000 ha) forest. Both of these places provide recreation for residents.

Conococheague Creek, a noted trout stream, runs through the center of town. It is a tributary of the Potomac River. The northernmost reach of the Potomac watershed is a few miles north of town.

Chambersburg places a strong emphasis on health and wellness among its residents. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital offers comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. Lotus Moon offers sessions to improve flexibility and mindfulness. Planet Fitness and Anytime Fitness provide a comprehensive fitness experience with state-of-the-art equipment and personal training. For a relaxing spa experience, head to the Spa At The Hotel Hershey, known for its luxurious treatments. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy a wide range of activities at Spooky Nook Sports, including rock climbing, soccer, and fitness classes. For a serene retreat, visit the Lodge at Woodloch Spa, which features a comprehensive wellness program.

Top sites in Chambersburg, PA include Capitol Theatre, Chambers Fort Park, and The Old Jail.

Population: 22,172 (2022). Elevation: 653 feet (199 meters). Area: 6.79 square miles (17.58 km²). ZIP Code: 17201. Area code: 717.

FAQs

What is Chambersburg, PA known for?

A statue of a Union soldier stands next to the fountain, facing south to guard against the return of Southern raiders. To this day, the Civil War burning of Chambersburg remains a part of the town's historic identity and yearly memorial events are held, especially near July 30. Chambersburg has also recently been the subject of study on how people have historically perceived and responded to war tragedies.

Is Chambersburg, PA a nice place to live?

Chambersburg is in Franklin County. Living in Chambersburg offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents rent their homes. Many families and young professionals live in Chambersburg and residents tend to lean conservative. The public schools in Chambersburg are above average.

What are the demographics of Chambersburg, PA?

Chambersburg, PA is home to a population of 21.9k people, of which 93.4% are citizens. As of 2022, 10.7% of Chambersburg, PA residents were born outside of the country (2.34k people). In 2022, there were 7.16 times more White (non-Hispanic) residents (14.6k people) in Chambersburg, PA than any other race or ethnicity. There were 2.03k Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) and 1.7k White (Hispanic) residents, the second and third most common ethnic groups.

Sources

Borough of Chambersburg

Wikipedia

Niche

Data USA

Capitol Theatre

Chambers Fort Park

The Old Jail

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital

Lotus Moon

Planet Fitness

Anytime Fitness

Spa At The Hotel Hershey

Spooky Nook Sports

Lodge at Woodloch Spa

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