Thinking about a fresh start in the Pocono Mountains? If Mount Pocono is on your list, you are choosing a small borough with big access to outdoor fun and regional amenities. Whether you are moving for lifestyle, remote work, or a second home, you will want a clear picture of housing, daily life, and logistics before you buy. This quick start guide gives you practical steps and trusted sources so you can move with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Why Mount Pocono works
Mount Pocono sits in Monroe County in the heart of the Pocono Mountains. The borough blends year‑round neighborhoods with vacation and second‑home activity, thanks to nearby resorts and four‑season recreation. The population is in the low thousands, which helps keep a small‑town feel while still offering everyday services. You also have easy access to regional attractions across the Poconos.
Housing market basics
Market activity in Mount Pocono often follows the seasons. Spring and early summer typically bring more listings and buyer traffic. Winter can be quieter, but it also draws buyers who want quick access to skiing and snow sports. If you are tracking prices and days on market, use real‑time data from the local MLS or trusted portals, and compare single‑family homes, townhouse or condo communities, and land.
Neighborhood types
- Borough center: Smaller lots with walkable access to shops and dining.
- Resort‑adjacent communities: Townhouse or condo options, HOA services, and properties popular for vacation rental use. Always verify HOA rules and rental policies before you buy.
- Rural or private developments: Larger, wooded parcels where septic and well systems are common. Confirm year‑round access, winter plowing, and driveway grade.
Key inspections for mountain homes
- Septic system inspection and permit status.
- Well water testing for potability, iron, and hardness.
- Roof condition, snow shedding, and chimney or venting.
- Driveway slope and winter accessibility, plus snow removal arrangements.
- Foundation drainage, grading, and sump pumps to manage seasonal runoff.
- Radon testing is recommended in many Pennsylvania locations.
Zoning and short‑term rentals
If you plan to rent seasonally, research local rules early. Short‑term rental requirements can vary by municipality, including Mount Pocono borough and Monroe County. Check permitting, occupancy limits, and tax collection requirements with the borough and county offices before you make an offer.
Everyday living essentials
Schools and enrollment
Most addresses in the borough are served by the Pocono Mountain School District. Confirm your school assignment by address directly with the district’s boundary and enrollment tools on the Pocono Mountain School District website. For third‑party perspectives, you can review parent feedback on GreatSchools. Always verify final placement and programs with the district.
Getting around and commuting
Road conditions and drive times vary by season. Use PennDOT’s official resources to check traffic and road updates when planning your commute. Regional bus options and seasonal services may be available; confirm current schedules with local providers. The nearest commercial airports include Wilkes‑Barre/Scranton and Lehigh Valley International, with larger New York and New Jersey airports within a longer drive.
Utilities and services
Electric service in much of northeastern Pennsylvania is provided by PPL Electric Utilities; confirm availability by address with PPL Electric Utilities. Natural gas service from UGI and other providers may be available in parts of Monroe County, while many rural homes use propane or oil; check address‑level options through UGI. Some properties have municipal water, while others rely on private wells. Trash and recycling schedules vary by borough, and internet or cell coverage can change quickly with terrain, so verify all services during due diligence.
Healthcare and emergency care
You will find regional hospital and urgent care services nearby, including Lehigh Valley Hospital–Pocono. For specialty care, larger networks in cities like Allentown or Scranton are common options. Map your primary care, dental, and emergency access relative to any home you are considering.
Taxes and cost planning
Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax of 3.07 percent as of mid‑2024 and a general state sales tax of 6 percent. Review current rules and exemptions on the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. Property taxes are set at the county, municipal, and school district levels. For parcel‑specific assessments and millage details, start with Monroe County Government. Also factor winter heating costs into your budget, especially if the home uses oil or propane.
Lifestyle and things to do
Mount Pocono gives you easy reach to four‑season recreation, from skiing and snow tubing to hiking, biking, and lake days. Explore regional attractions, trails, and events through the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau to plan your weekends. You will find local dining and services in the borough, with larger shopping areas in nearby towns such as Tannersville and Stroudsburg. Seasonal festivals, fairs, and outdoor events are common throughout the region.
Quick‑start checklist
Before you make an offer
- Verify school assignment by address with the district.
- Check FEMA flood maps and county floodplain resources; if applicable, discuss flood insurance and elevation certificates. Use the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.
- Confirm well and septic status and budget for professional inspections.
- Research local short‑term rental rules and HOA covenants if you plan to rent the property.
- Confirm road maintenance and winter plowing responsibilities for the street and driveway.
During due diligence
- Hire inspectors experienced with mountain properties: roof, chimney, septic, well, and radon testing.
- Confirm utilities and set up accounts early: electric through PPL Electric Utilities, natural gas via UGI if available, plus water source and trash services.
- Evaluate heating fuel type and winter costs; request past utility bills when possible.
- Review zoning, permits, and any STR license or tax requirements with the borough and county.
After closing and move‑in
- Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration with Pennsylvania within the required timelines.
- Set up trash and recycling service per borough guidance.
- Register children with the school district; obtain forms from Pocono Mountain School District.
- Select local healthcare providers and transfer medical records; note the location of Lehigh Valley Hospital–Pocono and nearby urgent care.
- Schedule internet and cable installations early and test cell coverage at the property.
Special notes for sellers relocating here
If you are selling in order to move to Mount Pocono, timing matters. Spring and early summer typically see higher listing activity, but winter can attract buyers who want proximity to ski areas. Highlight energy upgrades, winter readiness, and location benefits such as resort access or HOA maintenance. Address septic, roof, and drainage items upfront to keep your sale on track.
Ready to get started?
When you are relocating, clear guidance and fast action make all the difference. Our team combines local expertise with a process‑driven approach to help you find the right Mount Pocono home and manage every step from search to closing. If you want a tailored plan and on‑the‑ground insights, connect with Kelly Realty Group to schedule your free Poconos market consultation.
FAQs
Is Mount Pocono a realistic commute to New York City?
- Driving is possible, but plan on 1.5 to 2.5 hours or more depending on traffic and destination; confirm your route and timing with PennDOT resources.
What should I know about short‑term rentals in Mount Pocono?
- Rules vary by municipality; check Mount Pocono borough and Monroe County for permits, occupancy limits, and tax collection requirements before purchasing a rental property.
How severe are winters and how can I prepare?
- Expect cold and snow; budget for snow removal, winter‑ready vehicles, a reliable heating system, and insulation, and confirm driveway slope and plowing responsibilities.
Is flooding a concern in the area?
- Some properties may be near streams or lakes; always review the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and consult your insurer about flood insurance needs.
How do property taxes compare in Mount Pocono?
- Taxes vary by county, borough, and school district rates; use Monroe County Government to research assessments and contact the local tax office for parcel‑specific estimates.
How can I find reliable information on local schools?
- Confirm attendance zones and programs with the Pocono Mountain School District and review third‑party perspectives on GreatSchools; always verify details directly with the district.
