A Township in Lehigh County, PA

Upper Milford

Welcome to Upper Milford Township!

Upper Milford Township is a picturesque community located in the southern portion of Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. Nestled in the foothills of the South Mountain range, the township is characterized by its rural charm, rolling hills, and scenic farmlands. It offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere while still being conveniently located near major roadways, making it a desirable location for those who commute to nearby cities like Allentown, Bethlehem, or even Philadelphia. The township is served by the East Penn School District, which is known for its strong academic reputation.

The township includes several quaint villages such as Zionsville, Old Zionsville, and Vera Cruz, each with its own unique history and character. Vera Cruz, for instance, is notable for its connection to jasper mining, once a significant industry in the area. Today, Upper Milford Township continues to preserve its historical roots while promoting responsible growth and land conservation. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the abundant parks, trails, and preserved open spaces, including parts of the Lehigh Valley Greenways and access to nearby game lands. Community events and a strong sense of local identity help make Upper Milford a close-knit and welcoming place to live.

History of Upper Milford Township

Upper Milford Township has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century, when German immigrants first began settling in the region. The township was officially formed in 1852 when the original Milford Township was divided into Upper and Lower Milford. The fertile land and access to natural resources like jasper made it a favorable area for early settlers, who established farms, churches, and small communities that continue to shape the township's identity today. Agriculture played a central role in the area’s development, with generations of families working the land and contributing to the township’s agrarian culture.

One of the most historically significant aspects of Upper Milford is its connection to Native American history, particularly in the Vera Cruz area. The region was once a major site for jasper mining, a stone used by indigenous peoples for tools and trade. The Jasper Park in Vera Cruz is now an archaeological preserve, highlighting the area's prehistoric significance. In addition to its Native American and colonial roots, Upper Milford's villages—such as Old Zionsville and Zionsville—feature historic churches, schools, and homes that reflect the area's deep heritage. The township has maintained its rural charm and historical character through efforts in preservation and by fostering a community that values its past while planning for the future.

Neighborhood Report: Upper Milford Township, PA

Real Estate and Housing:
Upper Milford Township offers a diverse real estate market that blends rural tranquility with accessibility to urban conveniences. Housing options range from historic farmhouses and charming single-family homes to newer custom builds on spacious lots, appealing to buyers seeking privacy and scenic surroundings. The township’s low-density zoning and commitment to land preservation help maintain its country character, making it especially attractive to those desiring a quieter lifestyle. Upper Milford strikes a balance between seclusion and convenience, contributing to steadily rising home values and strong buyer interest in the Lehigh Valley region.

Community and Lifestyle:
Upper Milford Township offers a serene, close-knit community atmosphere rooted in rural charm and outdoor living. Residents enjoy a slower pace of life with access to scenic parks, nature preserves, and walking trails, including parts of the Lehigh Valley Greenways and nearby South Mountain trails. Community events, local churches, and volunteer organizations foster strong neighborhood connections, while nearby Emmaus and other Lehigh Valley towns provide convenient access to shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. With its blend of pastoral beauty, family-friendly values, and proximity to urban amenities, Upper Milford supports a lifestyle that emphasizes both connection to nature and a sense of belonging.

Education and Schools:
Upper Milford Township is served by the highly regarded East Penn School District, known for its strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, and well-rounded extracurricular offerings. Students in the township typically attend Emmaus High School, one of the top-performing schools in the Lehigh Valley, along with nearby middle and elementary schools such as Eyer and Lower Macungie Middle Schools, and Macungie and Shoemaker Elementary Schools. The district emphasizes academic excellence, STEM opportunities, and arts education, preparing students for college and career success. In addition to public schools, families also have access to several private and parochial school options in the surrounding area, as well as nearby higher education institutions like Lehigh University and Muhlenberg College, enhancing the township’s appeal to families seeking quality educational opportunities.
Transportation and Accessibility:
Upper Milford Township enjoys a strategic location that offers residents both rural tranquility and convenient access to major transportation routes. The township is situated near key highways such as Route 29, Route 100, and I-78, providing easy commutes to nearby towns like Emmaus and Allentown, and broader access to the Philadelphia and New York metropolitan areas. While the township itself does not have public transit services, residents can access nearby bus routes and park-and-ride lots in the Lehigh Valley for regional and intercity travel. The Lehigh Valley International Airport, just a short drive away, adds to the area's connectivity for business and leisure travel. This combination of peaceful living and accessibility makes Upper Milford an attractive choice for commuters and those who value a blend of seclusion and convenience.

Local Economy and Businesses:
The local economy of Upper Milford Township is primarily supported by small businesses, agriculture, and its proximity to larger commercial centers in the Lehigh Valley. While the township maintains its rural character, it is home to a mix of family-owned farms, specialty shops, home-based businesses, and service providers that contribute to the community's self-sufficiency and charm. Many residents commute to nearby Emmaus, Allentown, or other parts of the region for employment, benefiting from the economic strength of the greater Lehigh Valley, which includes robust sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, education, and logistics. The township's balanced approach to growth and preservation helps maintain its local identity while supporting a stable and connected economic environment.

East Penn School District


The East Penn School District is located in the Lehigh Valley’s metropolitan area which has a total population of a half million people. With proximity to New York City, Philadelphia, the Pocono Mountains and the New Jersey shore, East Penn is an ideal location that is experiencing residential and business growth.

Contact
800 Pine Street
Emmaus PA, 18049
Main Office: 610-966-8300

Mission
We foster a community in which students become effective problem solvers, collaborators, critical thinkers and communicators.

Vision
Our students will grow into confident, adaptable, compassionate individuals who will become lifelong learners and contributors to a global society.

Real Estate Market Update For Upper Milford Township

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