A Borough in Lehigh County, PA

Slatington

Welcome to the Borough of Slatington!

Slatington, Pennsylvania is a small borough located in northern Lehigh County, nestled within the scenic Lehigh Valley. With a rich history rooted in the slate industry, Slatington was once a major hub for slate quarrying, which played a vital role in the town’s development during the 19th century. This industrial legacy is still evident today, as the borough preserves many historic buildings and landmarks that reflect its past, including charming Victorian homes and remnants of the old quarries. Slatington is part of the Northern Lehigh School District and sits along the Lehigh River, offering residents a blend of small-town charm and easy access to natural beauty.

Nature lovers are drawn to Slatington for its proximity to the D&L Trail and the Lehigh Gap Nature Center, both of which provide excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, bird watching, and environmental education. The borough also hosts community events throughout the year and boasts a walkable downtown area with local businesses, restaurants, and a farmers market that bring neighbors together. With its affordable cost of living, strong community spirit, and convenient location near Allentown and the Pocono Mountains, Slatington appeals to families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

History of Slatington

Slatington, Pennsylvania, has a history deeply intertwined with the slate industry that gave the town its name. Originally inhabited by the Lenape people, the area was settled by European colonists in the early 1700s. However, it wasn't until the mid-19th century that Slatington truly began to flourish, thanks to the discovery of high-quality slate in the region. In 1845, the first slate quarry was opened, and the town quickly grew into a national center for slate production. Welsh immigrants, many of whom had slate quarrying experience, played a crucial role in developing the industry. The borough was officially incorporated in 1864 and became known for producing slate used in roofing, blackboards, and architectural details.

As the slate industry boomed, so did Slatington’s population and infrastructure. Railroads connected the town to major markets, and schools, churches, and businesses sprang up to support the growing community. The prosperity of the slate trade left a lasting mark, with many slate-roofed homes and public buildings still standing today as reminders of this formative period. However, by the mid-20th century, demand for slate declined due to the rise of alternative materials, leading to a gradual slowdown in quarrying.

Despite this industrial downturn, Slatington has preserved much of its heritage and transitioned into a close-knit community with a focus on its historic charm and natural surroundings. The Slatington Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcases many structures from the slate era. Today, the town embraces its past while serving as a gateway to the Lehigh Gap and the D&L Trail, connecting its history with opportunities for recreation and revitalization.

Neighborhood Report: Slatington, PA

Real Estate and Housing:
Slatington offers a diverse and affordable real estate market that appeals to a range of buyers, from first-time homeowners to those seeking small-town charm with access to the greater Lehigh Valley. The housing stock includes a mix of historic Victorian homes, mid-century single-family houses, and newer construction, often at prices lower than neighboring areas. Many properties feature large lots, scenic views, and proximity to outdoor amenities like the Lehigh River and D&L Trail. With its quiet neighborhoods, walkable downtown, and convenient access to major highways and nearby cities like Allentown and Bethlehem, Slatington presents a compelling option for those looking for value and community in a picturesque setting.

Community and Lifestyle:
Slatington offers a welcoming, close-knit community atmosphere where neighbors know each other and local pride runs deep. The borough hosts seasonal events, parades, and a popular farmers market that foster strong community connections and celebrate local traditions. Residents enjoy an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle, thanks to nearby access to the D&L Trail, the Lehigh River, and the Lehigh Gap Nature Center. The town’s walkable downtown features small businesses, eateries, and historic architecture that add to its charm, while its location provides an easy commute to larger Lehigh Valley cities. Slatington blends small-town living with a sense of heritage, nature, and neighborly spirit.

Education and Schools:
Slatington is served by the Northern Lehigh School District, which provides educational services to the borough and surrounding areas, including Walnutport and Washington Township. The district includes Northern Lehigh High School, Northern Lehigh Middle School, and Slatington Elementary School, all of which are known for their community involvement, smaller class sizes, and supportive learning environments. The schools offer a range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and athletic opportunities, fostering well-rounded development for students. The area also benefits from proximity to several local colleges and universities in the greater Lehigh Valley, providing convenient access to higher education and continuing learning opportunities.
Transportation and Accessibility:
Slatington offers convenient transportation and accessibility for residents and visitors alike, with its location just off Route 873 and close proximity to major highways such as Route 309 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476). This makes commuting to nearby cities like Allentown, Bethlehem, and even Philadelphia relatively easy. While public transportation options are limited within the borough itself, regional bus services are accessible in neighboring areas. Slatington’s walkable downtown and network of trails, including access to the D&L Trail, support pedestrian and bike-friendly travel for local errands and recreation. Its location along the Lehigh River also provides scenic routes and a relaxed pace of travel, blending small-town accessibility with connections to the broader Lehigh Valley region.

Local Economy and Businesses:
Slatington has a local economy rooted in its small-town heritage, with a mix of locally owned businesses, service providers, and light industry supporting the community. While the slate industry that once defined the borough has largely faded, Slatington has evolved with a focus on small business development, trades, and regional commuting. The downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and professional services that contribute to the town’s charm and self-sufficiency. Many residents work in nearby Lehigh Valley cities, benefiting from the area's broader economic opportunities while enjoying the affordability and tight-knit nature of Slatington. Community investment, revitalization efforts, and access to tourism traffic from the D&L Trail and Lehigh Gap Nature Center also help sustain local commerce and encourage growth.

Northern Lehigh School District


Contact Us
1201 Shadow Oaks Lane
Slatington, PA 18080
Phone: (610) 767-9800
Fax: (610) 767-9809
webmaster@nlsd.org

Mission
The mission of the Northern Lehigh School District is to provide a safe school climate where everyone is valued, respected, and included.

Our community promotes a collaborative and supportive learning culture that meets students at their level and challenges all to learn and grow. We prepare and motivate our students for their future endeavors teaching them essential skills, civic responsibility, and an appreciation for life-long learning. We encourage pride in ourselves, schools, and community.

We strive for excellence in all we do.

Vision
Our vision is that every one of us embraces our dual role as teachers and learners.

It is our vision that we find the courage and empathy to hold each other accountable and ensure that the impact of our actions is shared and heard.

It is our vision that we cultivate shared trust through words and actions. While not insulated from the effects of the world around us, and absolutely determined to impact it, we do not accept disrespect, nor contempt as a norm. By eliminating these distractions, we can face the challenges and help each member of this community live, learn, and lead.

We envision a community with countless untold stories that seeks to understand and support each other under the core commitments.

Real Estate Market Update For Slatington

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