One-Floor Living in Lancaster County PA

If you’ve been thinking about simplifying your life, trading in those stairs for a home that works with you instead of against you, you’re definitely not alone. Here in Lancaster County, I’m seeing more and more folks asking about one-floor living options. And honestly? It makes perfect sense.

The oldest Baby Boomers are turning 80 this year, and many are realizing that the four-bedroom colonial they raised their kids in just doesn’t fit their lifestyle anymore. Maybe the knees aren’t what they used to be. Maybe maintaining that big yard has lost its charm. Or maybe you’re just ready for something that feels a little easier.

Whatever your reason, I want to share 10 things I’ve learned after helping clients find their perfect one-floor homes for over 20 years. Let’s dive in!

1. “Ranch” and “One-Floor Living” Aren’t the Same Thing

Here’s something that surprises a lot of buyers: when we talk about “one-floor living,” we’re talking about more than just a traditional ranch-style house.

Yes, a classic ranch is single-story. But one-floor living is really about a lifestyle. It includes 55+ active adult communities, patio homes, first-floor master condos, and even some cleverly designed townhomes where everything you need daily is on one level.

The key question isn’t “Is this a ranch?” It’s “Can I live comfortably without climbing stairs every day?”

That shift in thinking opens up way more options than you might expect.

2. Accessibility Features Matter More Than You Think

When you’re touring one-floor homes, don’t just look at the layout: look at the details. These small features can make a huge difference down the road:

• Wider doorways (32-36 inches) that accommodate wheelchairs or walkers if ever needed
• Step-free entries from the garage into the home
• Walk-in showers instead of tub-only bathrooms
• Lever-style door handles instead of knobs
• Good lighting throughout, especially in hallways and bathrooms

I always tell my clients: even if you don’t need these features today, buying a home that already has them is smart planning. You’ll thank yourself later: and so will your resale value (more on that in a minute).

3. Single-Story Homes Hold Their Value Well in Lancaster County

Speaking of resale value, here’s some good news. Single-story homes in Lancaster County are in high demand, and that demand isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Right now, the median listing price for single-story homes in Lancaster County sits around $375,000, with options ranging from around $100,000 to well over $500,000 depending on location and amenities. Homes within Lancaster city tend to be a bit more affordable, with a median closer to $279,000.

The aging population means buyers will continue seeking these homes for years to come. So when you invest in one-floor living, you’re not just buying comfort: you’re buying a home that future buyers will want, too.

4. Maintenance-Free Living vs. Traditional Ranches: Know the Difference

This is a big one, and I see folks get confused about it all the time.

A traditional ranch is a single-story home where you are still responsible for everything: mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, fixing the roof, painting the shutters. You own it all, and you maintain it all.

Maintenance-free communities, on the other hand, handle the exterior upkeep for you. That typically includes lawn care, landscaping, snow removal, and sometimes even roof and siding repairs. You pay a monthly HOA fee, but in return? You get your weekends back.

Communities like The Farmstead at Homestead Village offer beautiful floor plans: some nearly 1,900 square feet: with attached garages and all the modern amenities, plus the peace of mind that comes with not worrying about yard work.

Which option is right for you depends on your budget, your lifestyle, and honestly, how you feel about pushing a lawnmower in July.

5. The “Master on Main” Trend Is Worth Knowing About

Here’s a middle-ground option that’s become really popular: the Master on Main home.

These are two-story houses where the primary bedroom, full bathroom, laundry, and main living areas are all on the first floor. The upstairs? That’s for guest rooms, a home office, or maybe a bonus room for the grandkids.

This design gives you one-floor living most of the time, with extra space when you need it. It’s a great choice if you’re not quite ready to downsize completely but want the flexibility to age in place.

6. Proximity to Healthcare Is a Bigger Deal Than You Realize

One thing I always encourage my clients to consider: how close is the home to quality healthcare?

We’re fortunate here in Lancaster County to have several medical centers that offer excellent care and a wide range of specialists:   Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health , Penn State Health Medical Center , and  UPMC Lititz    Being within a reasonable drive of a top-notch hospitals isn’t just convenient: it’s a genuine quality-of-life factor as we get older.

Many of the 55+ communities and senior living options in the county are strategically located near medical facilities, pharmacies, and other essential services. It’s worth factoring into your search.

7. The Lancaster Market for One-Floor Homes Is Competitive

I won’t sugarcoat it: finding one-floor living in Lancaster County can be competitive.

Currently, there are about 194 single-story homes for sale across the county. That sounds like a lot, but here’s the catch: most of them sell in about 25 days and receive multiple offers.

Why? Because everyone wants what you want. Boomers are downsizing. Gen Xers are planning ahead. Even some younger buyers prefer single-story living for various reasons.

The homes that are priced right, in good condition, and in desirable locations? They go fast.

8. Experience Matters When Finding “Hidden” Listings

This is where working with someone who knows the Lancaster market inside and out really pays off.

After more than 20 years as a REALTOR® here, I’ve built relationships with other agents, developers, and homeowners throughout the county. Sometimes I hear about listings before they officially hit the market. Sometimes I know which neighborhoods have the kind of inventory you’re looking for: even if it’s not showing up in your online search.

One-floor homes, especially the well-maintained ones in great locations, often sell through word-of-mouth or come-soon listings. Having an experienced agent in your corner means you won’t miss those opportunities.

9. Technology Can Help You Age in Place Comfortably

Today’s one-floor homes can be surprisingly high-tech: and that’s a good thing.

Smart home features that support aging in place include:

• Video doorbells so you can see who’s at the door without getting up
• Smart thermostats you can control from your phone (or by voice)
• Medical alert systems that integrate with your home
• Automated lighting that turns on when you enter a room
• Smart locks so you never have to fumble with keys

Many newer construction homes come with these features built in, and older homes can be retrofitted pretty easily. It’s worth asking about during your search.

10. Start Your Search Early: Seriously

If there’s one piece of advice I give to everyone looking for one-floor living, it’s this: start sooner than you think you need to.

The best homes get snapped up quickly. Finding the right combination of location, features, price, and community can take time. And if you’re selling a larger home to make this move, coordinating the timing adds another layer of complexity.

I recommend starting your search 3 to 6 months before you want to move. That gives us time to explore options, tour homes, and make a thoughtful decision: not a rushed one.

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Ready to Explore Your Options?

If one-floor living sounds like the right next chapter for you, I’d love to help you find it.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional ranch, a maintenance-free patio home, a 55+ community, or a Master on Main design, I can put together a curated list of options that match your needs and your budget.

Let’s grab coffee and talk about what you’re looking for. You can reach me anytime through my contact page to get a feel for what’s available.

Here’s to finding a home that fits your life: today and for years to come.