Northwestern Pennsylvania
Meadville, Pennsylvania
City and Crawford County seat
A college city in the French Creek valley
Meadville is a city in Crawford County about 40 miles south of Erie and has been the county seat since 1800. Home to Allegheny College, it has a walkable downtown with Victorian architecture and a location at the edge of the region's oil heritage.
History & Local Character
Laid out in 1796 by David Mead, the city became a lumber and oil-refining center after the nearby Drake Well struck oil in 1859.
Housing & Real Estate
Meadville offers Victorian singles, twins and rowhouses at affordable prices, with newer development outside the city.
Restaurants & Shopping
Chestnut Street and Park Avenue host cafes, restaurants and breweries serving students and residents.
Schools & Education
Crawford Central School District serves the city, and Allegheny College is within it.
Parks & Recreation
Diamond Park, the French Creek valley and nearby Pymatuning State Park provide recreation.
Transportation & Accessibility
I-79, Route 6 and Route 322 serve Meadville, with limited public transit.
Local Businesses
Tool manufacturing, healthcare and independent downtown retail make up the local economy.
No businesses are listed in Meadville yet. Add your business to be the first.
Nearby Attractions
- Drake Well Museum
- Allegheny College
- Pymatuning State Park
- French Creek
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Affordable housing
- College-town culture
- I-79 access
- Access to Pymatuning
Considerations
- Limited retail variety
- Economic transition from manufacturing
- Limited transit
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Meadville known for?
Meadville is home to Allegheny College and is near the Drake Well, the 1859 oil discovery site that launched the modern petroleum industry.
Is Meadville the Crawford County seat?
Yes. Meadville has been the seat of Crawford County since 1800.