Introduction

Investing in rental properties can be a lucrative venture if approached with careful consideration and strategic planning. A good rental property typically features a desirable location, strong rental demand, and potential for appreciation in value. The location of a rental property plays a crucial role in determining its success. Factors such as proximity to employment hubs, quality of local schools, access to amenities, and neighborhood safety can significantly influence rental income and property value. Dauphin County, PA, offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and areas, each with unique attributes that can appeal to various types of renters and investors.

Best Neighborhoods and Areas in Dauphin County, PA

1. Harrisburg

Grades:

• Convenience: A
• Tourist Attractions: B
• Things to Do: B+
• Average Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: A
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A+
• X-Factor: A

Convenience: Harrisburg, the state capital, offers excellent convenience with its robust infrastructure, public transportation, and accessibility to major highways. The city is well-connected, making commuting easy for residents.

Tourist Attractions: Harrisburg is home to several notable attractions, including the Pennsylvania State Capitol, the State Museum of Pennsylvania, and City Island. While it may not be a top tourist destination, these attractions provide a steady flow of visitors and cultural appeal.

Things to Do: The city boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, numerous dining options, parks, and recreational activities. The Susquehanna River adds to the charm with opportunities for boating and riverside activities.

Average Home Prices: The real estate market in Harrisburg offers a range of affordable options, making it accessible for investors. The average home prices are relatively moderate compared to other metropolitan areas.

Return on Investment: Harrisburg's rental market is strong, with high demand for both residential and commercial properties. The steady influx of government employees and students contributes to a favorable ROI for rental properties.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: As the state capital, Harrisburg hosts numerous government offices, hospitals, and the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center, making it a prime location for professionals.

X-Factor: Harrisburg's unique blend of urban amenities and historical charm, coupled with its strategic importance as a governmental hub, sets it apart as a desirable place to live and invest.

2. Hershey

Grades:

• Convenience: B+
• Tourist Attractions: A
• Things to Do: A
• Average Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: B+
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
• X-Factor: A+

Convenience: Hershey offers good convenience with well-maintained roads, local shops, and services. It is slightly less urban than Harrisburg but provides a comfortable suburban lifestyle.

Tourist Attractions: Known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth," Hershey is famous for Hersheypark, Hershey’s Chocolate World, and the Hershey Gardens. These attractions make it a popular tourist destination year-round.

Things to Do: In addition to its tourist attractions, Hershey offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The Hershey Theatre and Giant Center host numerous events, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Average Home Prices: The housing market in Hershey is slightly higher than in Harrisburg, reflecting its desirability and tourist appeal. However, the prices are still reasonable for investors seeking solid returns.

Return on Investment: The constant influx of tourists and events generates strong demand for short-term rentals and vacation homes, providing a good ROI for investors.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: While not as central as Harrisburg, Hershey is close enough to major highways and Harrisburg International Airport, making it a convenient location for business travelers.

X-Factor: Hershey's unique appeal as a world-renowned tourist destination, combined with its family-friendly environment and charming community feel, makes it an exceptional place for investment.

3. Hummelstown

Grades:

• Convenience: B
• Tourist Attractions: B
• Things to Do: B
• Average Home Prices: B+
• Return on Investment: B
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B+
• X-Factor: B+

Convenience: Hummelstown offers a small-town feel with easy access to nearby cities like Harrisburg and Hershey. The community is close-knit, with local shops and services readily available.

Tourist Attractions: While not a major tourist hub, Hummelstown benefits from its proximity to Hershey and other attractions in Dauphin County. Indian Echo Caverns is a notable local attraction.

Things to Do: The area offers a range of recreational activities, parks, and community events. Its proximity to Hershey expands the options for dining, entertainment, and leisure activities.

Average Home Prices: Hummelstown presents affordable housing options, with home prices generally lower than in Hershey, making it attractive for investors and first-time buyers.

Return on Investment: The steady demand for rentals from families and professionals working in nearby cities ensures a stable ROI for rental properties in Hummelstown.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Its strategic location near major highways and the Harrisburg International Airport makes it a convenient base for commuters and business travelers.

X-Factor: Hummelstown's blend of small-town charm, community spirit, and accessibility to larger urban centers makes it a unique and appealing place to invest in rental properties.

4. Middletown

Grades:

• Convenience: B+
• Tourist Attractions: B
• Things to Do: B
• Average Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: B+
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A
• X-Factor: B

Convenience: Middletown offers a mix of suburban and semi-rural living with convenient access to essential services and amenities. Its proximity to Harrisburg and Lancaster enhances its appeal.

Tourist Attractions: While Middletown itself does not have major tourist attractions, it is close to Hershey and other regional destinations, providing residents and visitors with plenty of options.

Things to Do: The area offers local parks, historical sites, and community events, ensuring a good quality of life for residents. The Susquehanna River adds recreational opportunities.

Average Home Prices: Home prices in Middletown are relatively moderate, providing good opportunities for investors looking for affordable properties with potential for appreciation.

Return on Investment: The rental market is stable, with demand driven by proximity to Harrisburg International Airport, Penn State Harrisburg, and other nearby employment centers.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Middletown's proximity to the airport and major highways makes it an excellent location for professionals who travel frequently for work.

X-Factor: Middletown's unique combination of suburban comfort, affordability, and strategic location near key transportation hubs make it a noteworthy option for rental property investment.

5. Linglestown

Grades:

• Convenience: B
• Tourist Attractions: B-
• Things to Do: B
• Average Home Prices: B+
• Return on Investment: B
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B+
• X-Factor: B

Convenience: Linglestown offers a quiet, suburban lifestyle with easy access to Harrisburg and other surrounding areas. Local shops and services cater to residents' daily needs.

Tourist Attractions: Linglestown itself is not a tourist destination, but it benefits from being close to Harrisburg and Hershey, which expands the range of attractions and activities available to residents.

Things to Do: The community offers parks, local eateries, and annual events that foster a strong sense of community. Its proximity to larger urban areas provides additional recreational options.

Average Home Prices: The housing market in Linglestown is reasonably priced, with home values offering good potential for appreciation, making it attractive to investors.

Return on Investment: The steady demand for suburban living near Harrisburg ensures a reliable ROI for rental properties. The area attracts families and professionals seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Its location near major highways and Harrisburg makes Linglestown convenient for commuters and professionals who need to travel for work.

X-Factor: Linglestown's appeal lies in its peaceful, family-friendly environment combined with the convenience of being close to urban amenities and employment centers.

Conclusion

Dauphin County, PA, offers a variety of neighborhoods and areas that cater to different types of renters and investors. From the urban convenience and historical charm of Harrisburg to the tourist appeal of Hershey and the suburban comfort of Hummelstown, Middletown, and Linglestown, each area has its unique strengths. By carefully considering factors such as convenience, attractions, average home prices, ROI, and unique characteristics, investors can unlock the full potential of rental properties in this diverse and vibrant county.