c.1936 Pennsylvania Log Cabin in the Woods Under $185K
OHU50K Notes $184,900
c.1936 Pennsylvania Log Cabin in the Woods. Rustic 4 bed 2 bath cabin across from Colonel Denning State Park.
Realtor Comments
What a rare gem to be found on Tuscarora State Forest, Cumberland County, Big Spring Schools, Doubling Gap. This 1400 square foot log cabin home with 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths on almost a half-acre of leased land-10 years lease is $200 plus you pay your own real estate taxes of $1476 a year. Must be a cash buyer only. Property has indoor plumbing and septic-rare find. Seasonal use but does not say length of time you can stay out of a year. All of original hardwood floors throughout this beautiful home as well as logs. Wrap around porch, full kitchen, walking trails, hunting permitted in the State Forest. Across the road is a pond for fishing as well as Colonel Denning State Park- hiking- mountain biking-picnicking-swimming. Professional photos will be uploaded by Monday as well as floor plans and Park Lease by Monday.
- 4 bed
- 2 bath
- Build date 1936
1602 Doubling Gap Rd, Newville, PA 17241 $184,900
- Contact Realtor: Lisa Fraker
- Google Map
- Niche
Pros of Living in Newville, PA
1. Safe and Peaceful
Newville is one of the safest towns of its size in both Pennsylvania and the U.S., with an overall crime rate of just 1 per 1,000 residents—and violent crime virtually nonexistent at 0 per 1,000.
2. Affordable Living with Strong Housing Market
The cost of living is 4–5% below the national average, driven largely by affordable housing.
Depending on source, median home values range from around $161K to $258K or $303K —still well below national averages.
Home values are climbing: Redfin reports a median sale price of $200K, with an impressive +263% year-over-year jump (though this may reflect low prior comparables). Homes sell quickly—typically in 14 days.
3. Strong Community Feel & Livability
Newville scores above average on city livability metrics, reflecting solid performance in education, safety, affordability, and community satisfaction.
Niche awards include B overall, with strong marks in Crime & Safety (A), Housing (B), Cost of Living (B+), and Jobs (B+).
Locals praise the tight-knit, Bulldog‑proud community and frequent family-friendly events like parades and fall festivals.
4. Reasonable Commute Times
Average work commute is around 22 minutes, and most households have two cars—making daily travel manageable.
5. Lower Poverty Levels
With a poverty rate near 6.5%, Newville fares better than the national average (~12%).
Cons of Living in Newville, PA
1. Small Size & Limited Amenities
The borough’s population (~1,270–1,376 people) makes it very small. Limited in-town shopping, dining, or entertainment options, and residents often drive elsewhere for more amenities.
2. Reliance on Personal Transportation
Many amenities aren’t walkable, and public transit is sparse—making car ownership essential. Commute scores are average.
3. Health & Convenience Constraints
Some residents note limited access to healthcare facilities and pharmacies locally, which may pose challenges for families or older adults.
4. Mixed Demographic and Cultural Diversity
Though modestly more diverse than other small towns (ranking above state average), Newville remains relatively homogeneous. Median age (~36) indicates a balanced but not youthful or dynamic demographic.
5. Job Opportunity Limitations
Employment options are modest and often require commuting to nearby towns for broader opportunities.
