A Township in Lehigh County, PA

Upper Macungie

Welcome to Upper Macungie Township!

Upper Macungie Township is a fast-growing suburban area located in western Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, about 10 miles west of Allentown and part of the Lehigh Valley metropolitan region. With a population of over 26,000 residents, the township offers a blend of rural charm and modern convenience, making it an attractive place to live for families, professionals, and retirees alike. The township spans approximately 26 square miles and features a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial developments, and scenic farmland. Its strategic location near major highways such as I-78 and Route 222 makes commuting to nearby cities and business hubs easy and efficient.

The township is known for its excellent public schools, which are part of the Parkland School District—one of the most highly regarded in the region. Upper Macungie places a strong emphasis on recreation and community engagement, boasting several parks, trails, and recreational facilities including Grange Park, which hosts sports events and seasonal community activities. Over the past decade, the area has seen significant growth in both housing developments and business infrastructure, including distribution centers, retail spaces, and corporate offices, further enhancing its appeal as a vibrant and well-balanced community.
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History of Upper Macungie

The history of Upper Macungie Township in Pennsylvania dates back to the early 18th century, when German immigrants settled in the region as part of William Penn’s “Pennsylvania Dutch” migration. The name “Macungie” is derived from a Lenape word meaning “bear swamp” or “feeding place of the bears,” a reference to the area’s natural landscape at the time. Originally part of a much larger Macungie Township, the area was divided in 1832 into Upper and Lower Macungie to better manage the growing population and land. Agriculture dominated the region’s economy for much of its early history, with rolling farmland and dairy operations dotting the landscape.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Upper Macungie remained largely rural, but the mid-20th century brought significant changes. The post-World War II era saw the construction of highways and suburban housing, gradually transforming the township into a more residential and commercial area. Its proximity to Allentown and accessibility via routes like I-78 and Route 100 spurred development. In recent decades, the township has experienced rapid population growth and industrial expansion, becoming one of the fastest-growing areas in the Lehigh Valley. Despite its modern development, Upper Macungie retains a deep connection to its historical roots through preserved farmsteads, local museums, and community traditions that reflect its Pennsylvania Dutch heritage.

Neighborhood Report: Upper Macungie, PA

Real Estate and Housing:
Upper Macungie Township offers a diverse real estate market that appeals to a wide range of buyers, from first-time homeowners to those seeking upscale properties. The township features a mix of housing options, including single-family homes in established suburban neighborhoods, modern townhomes, and new construction developments with contemporary amenities. Thanks to its rapid population growth and desirable location within the Parkland School District, property values have steadily appreciated over the years. Many homes are situated on spacious lots, and newer communities often include features like walking trails, playgrounds, and access to nearby parks. With its strong infrastructure and growing commercial sectors, Upper Macungie continues to be one of the Lehigh Valley’s most sought-after areas for homebuyers and investors alike.

Community and Lifestyle:
Upper Macungie Township offers a vibrant, family-friendly lifestyle with a strong sense of community and access to a wide range of amenities. Residents enjoy a suburban atmosphere with the added benefits of well-maintained parks, scenic walking and biking trails, and year-round community events held at venues like Grange Park. The township is home to diverse dining and shopping options, and its close proximity to Allentown and other Lehigh Valley attractions provides easy access to cultural venues, entertainment, and employment opportunities. With a top-rated school district, active recreational programs, and a growing local economy, Upper Macungie fosters a balanced lifestyle that appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike.

Education and Schools:
Upper Macungie Township is served by the highly regarded Parkland School District, known for its strong academic performance, comprehensive extracurricular programs, and modern facilities. The district includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Parkland High School, all of which consistently earn high marks for student achievement and teacher quality. The community places a strong emphasis on education, with active parent involvement and support for school initiatives. In addition to public schools, families have access to several private and parochial school options in the surrounding area, as well as proximity to respected colleges and universities like Lehigh University and Cedar Crest College, making Upper Macungie an excellent choice for educational opportunities at all levels.
Transportation and Accessibility:
Upper Macungie Township boasts excellent transportation and accessibility, making it a prime location for commuters and businesses alike. Major highways such as Interstate 78, Route 22, Route 100, and Route 222 run through or near the township, providing quick and convenient access to Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and beyond, including easy connections to the New Jersey and Philadelphia markets. The Lehigh Valley International Airport is just a short drive away, offering regional and national flight options. Public transportation is available through LANta (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority), which operates bus routes connecting Upper Macungie to the broader Lehigh Valley. These transportation advantages support the township’s growing residential communities and thriving commercial and industrial sectors.

Local Economy and Businesses:
Upper Macungie Township has a robust and expanding local economy driven by a strategic location, business-friendly environment, and access to major transportation corridors. The area has become a hub for logistics, manufacturing, and distribution, with major employers such as Amazon, FedEx, Nestlé Waters, and Ocean Spray operating large facilities within the township. In addition to its industrial strength, Upper Macungie is home to a growing number of retail centers, restaurants, medical offices, and professional services that support both residents and the regional workforce. The township’s economic development is bolstered by its proximity to the Lehigh Valley’s larger urban centers and its commitment to infrastructure and planning, making it an increasingly attractive destination for both businesses and workers.

Parkland School District


Contact Us
1210 Springhouse Road
Allentown, PA 18104
P: 610.351.5503
F: 610.351.5509

Mission
Educate and empower each learner to be a meaningful contributor in a dynamic global society through the collaborative efforts of students, staff, parents, and the Parkland community.

Vision
Educating for success. Inspiring excellence.

Real Estate Market Update For Upper Macungie

Service the Lehigh Valley
Allentown Office - 3120 Hamilton Blvd. Allentown, PA 18103