Moving to Coplay, PA: What You Need to Know

Coplay is a small borough in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, with a population of approximately 3,348 residents. Located just north of Whitehall and about 5 miles from downtown Allentown, Coplay offers a quiet, residential atmosphere with a rich industrial history and easy access to the amenities of the greater Lehigh Valley.

A Borough with History

Coplay's history dates to 1740, when the land was purchased from the heirs of William Penn. The borough was incorporated in 1869 and grew alongside the iron and cement industries that defined the Lehigh Valley in the 19th century. Today, the Coplay Cement Company Kilns at Saylor Park Industrial Museum stand as a National Register of Historic Places landmark, preserving nine original 1890s kilns.

Schools and Education

Coplay is part of the Whitehall-Coplay School District, which serves approximately 4,185 students across five schools on a central 143-acre campus. The district holds a Niche overall grade of B and is ranked #5 among Best School Districts in Lehigh County. Whitehall High School, serving grades 9-12, maintains a 6/10 GreatSchools rating with approximately 1,447 students.

Parks and Recreation

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Saylor Park, a Lehigh County park right in Coplay featuring playgrounds and green space. The Ironton Rail-Trail, a scenic 9-mile multi-use trail, loops through the borough and neighboring communities, offering walking, running, and cycling opportunities. Hokendauqua Park and the boroughs of Northampton and Catasauqua are also minutes away.

Dining and Shopping

Coplay's Chestnut Street corridor features local favorites like Samuel Owens Restaurant & Bar and Thai Diner Restaurant. For broader shopping and dining, the Whitehall area along MacArthur Road and the Lehigh Valley Mall are just minutes away. Northampton's Main Street also offers a growing selection of restaurants and coffee shops.

Getting Around

The mean commute time for Coplay residents is approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Lehigh Valley International Airport is about 10 minutes away by car, and downtown Allentown is roughly 15 minutes. Major routes including Route 22 and I-78 are easily accessible from the borough.