The Lehigh Valley has historically benefited by its mid-scale size; a diverse economy; the skill and size of the work force; developing infrastructures; and a record of comparatively favorable real estate costs. During the past thirty years, population has increased modestly, while housing has increased more abundantly. Meanwhile, manufacturing employment has declined and warehouse-distribution facilities, various service and technology industries, and supportive retail services have developed and grown rapidly at times.

Employment losses to former greats such as Bethlehem Steel and Mack Trucks have been replaced by a wide variety of industries such as Lucent Technologies, Submicron Systems, Lutron Electronics, and Dun & Bradstreet. Major distribution centers continue to sprout such as Nestle, Coca-Cola®, Perrier®, and Walgreen’s. The health and educational facilities of the region have also grown rapidly contributing to the economic stability and success of the region.

The three sister cities of Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton have had progressive plans to revitalize the urban cores via the pending Lehigh Landing project in Allentown, the successful Two Rivers Landing project anchored by The Crayola Factory attraction in Easton, and numerous successful projects in the City of Bethlehem, spurred to a great extent by the presence of Lehigh University and the highly successful annual Musikfest event.

But overall, the development path has generally been north and west of the cities. Following a rapid rise during the second half of the 1980’s, real estate prices in the early 1990’s declined, then stabilized in the mid-decade, and have since risen modestly -- particularly during the past four years.

The Lehigh Valley 2000 Census population is 579,156, a 7.6% increase since the 1990 Census. Future growth is most likely to continue modestly upward as predicted by the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission. Certain property types and specific locations have exhibited better-than-average appreciation and marketability while the oldest urban areas have fared less well.

The quality of life in the Valley remains good, and overall, competitively priced properties have generally few impediments to ready marketability.

*The views expressed are independent conclusions of Ray Geiger. If you disagree, write and tell us why!