11 of the Best Places to Live in PA
by Jenna Mendez
15.1 min read
Pennsylvania is home to a wide range of cities and towns, each with something special to offer. Whether you’re seeking a bustling urban environment, a quaint small town, or a peaceful suburban neighborhood, there’s something for everyone in the Keystone State.
We’ll lay out the best places in PA to live with a comprehensive guide of all you need to know! This guide explores the best cities and towns to live in across Pennsylvania, highlighting what makes each location ideal for different lifestyles.
Best places to live in Pennsylvania
Looking for the bullet points? Breaking down the best places to live in PA is no easy feat but we’re here to do the work for you. Here are some quick facts and highlights of the best places to live in PA:
Best places to live in PA for city life
- Pittsburgh: Ideal for professionals and families looking for a vibrant city with job opportunities in tech, healthcare, and education.
- Philadelphia: Best for individuals who want a diverse urban environment with rich history, cultural attractions, and career opportunities.
- Norristown: Suited for commuters and families looking for affordable housing and proximity to Philadelphia.
Best Places to live in PA for families
- Lancaster: Perfect for those seeking a blend of rural charm and modern conveniences, with a growing arts and tourism scene.
- York: Suited for families and professionals seeking a small-town atmosphere with affordable living and revitalization efforts.
- Allentown: Ideal for young professionals and families seeking affordable housing and access to a growing economy and arts scene.
- Bethlehem: Perfect for history lovers and those seeking a strong sense of community, with access to cultural events and higher education.
Best places to live in PA for nature enthusiasts
- Erie: Great for those seeking affordable waterfront living and year-round outdoor recreational activities.
- Reading: Best for nature lovers and families looking for affordable homes near parks, trails, and cultural amenities.
- West Chester: Ideal for families and professionals who want suburban living with a historic downtown and excellent schools.
- Scranton: Great for outdoor enthusiasts and families who want affordability and access to nearby mountains and nature activities.
Best Places to Live in PA Quick Facts
Quick Facts About the Best Places to Live in PA
| City | Townships | Population* | Crime Rate (per 1000) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh | Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, Lawrenceville | 303,413 | 36.03 |
| Philadelphia | Center City, Northeast Philadelphia | 1,533,828 | 53.67 |
| Lancaster | Manheim Township, East Hempfield Township | 56,887 | 34.10 |
| York | West York, Spring Garden Township | 44,893 | 33.05 |
| Allentown | South Allentown, West End | 124,597 | 27.14 |
| Bethlehem | South Bethlehem, West Bethlehem | 79,167 | 18.66 |
| Erie | Edinboro, Harborcreek | 92,371 | 28.78 |
| Reading | West Reading, Wyomissing | 94,878 | 25.76 |
| Scranton | North Scranton, South Scranton | 75,682 | 21.07 |
| West Chester | East Goshen Township, West Goshen Township | 19,988 | 17.36 |
| Norristown | West Norriton, Lower Providence Township | 35,764 | 24.70 |
*Population taken from the time this article was written; numbers are subject to change.
1. Pittsburgh
Known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and strong job market, Pittsburgh is a blend of affordability and metropolitan living. Housing costs in Pittsburgh are 45% lower than the average median housing price in America. Pittsburgh has a bustling city life with shops, theaters, and activities. But if you’re not into the big city scene like that of Chicago and New York, Pittsburgh is small enough to navigate and explore.
With top universities like Carnegie Mellon, and thriving tech industries such as AI robotics and life sciences, it’s a great option for both professionals and families.
Quick Facts About Pittsburgh PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $232,805 |
| Median Household Income** | $66,219 |
| Average Rent*** | $1,317 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | B- |
Is Pittsburgh a good place to live?
Yes, Pittsburgh is a great place to live! Because of its affordable cost of living, cultural attractions, and job opportunities, the city offers a balanced lifestyle for individuals and families alike.
2. Lancaster
Lancaster offers a charming small-town feel with access to beautiful rural landscapes, while also being home to a growing arts and tourism scene. The city is ideal for those seeking a quieter life but still wanting access to modern conveniences and vibrant local events.
Don’t be fooled by Lancaster PA’s open landscapes, there’s still plenty to do for young families. Whether you’re spending the day exploring the shops at the Kitchen Kettle Village getting your hands on some homemade goods, or on a date at the Turkey Hill Experience for a tea tasting, there’s something for everyone.
If you get tired of the quiet life sometimes, Lancaster PA is only an hour and a half from Philadelphia.
Quick Facts About Lancaster PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $354,630 |
| Median Household Income** | $61,014 |
| Average Rent*** | $1,424 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | C+ |
Is Lancaster PA a good place to live?
Yes, Lancaster PA is a great place to live! Lancaster provides a balanced lifestyle, combining rural beauty with modern amenities, making it a desirable spot for families and retirees.
3. Scranton
Known for its rich industrial history, Scranton is a city with affordable housing, access to outdoor activities, and a revitalizing downtown area. It offers a peaceful environment for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with nearby mountains for hiking and skiing no matter the season. Scranton PA is only 45 minutes from the Pocono Mountains, home to some of the best slopes and bed and breakfasts around.
And yes, fans of The Office, you can visit iconic spots from the show right in your own backyard if you choose to make the move! Scranton is ranked among the best places to live in PA and is home to thriving industries like defense contractors, and professional service corporations like AT&T, Cigna Healthcare, and more.
Quick Facts About Scranton PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $175,615 |
| Median Household Income** | $41,601 |
| Average Rent*** | $1,282 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | C+ |
Is Scranton PA a good place to live?
Yes, Scranton is a great place to live for those seeking affordability and access to outdoor adventures, while benefiting from a growing local economy.
4. York
With its strong manufacturing heritage and ongoing revitalization efforts, York PA offers affordable housing options, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a mix of historic and modern attractions. The town has a welcoming community feel and provides easy access to larger cities like Harrisburg and Baltimore. \
York PA stays true to its colonial roots with landmarks, museums, and more dedicated to its long American history. The city is known as the “Factory Tour Capital of the World,” offering behind-the-scenes looks at over 20 industries, from snack foods to Harley-Davidson motorcycles. York, PA is literally in the heart of Lancaster County and a short drive from wonderful stops like Gettysburg, Amish County, and the Hershey Factory, making it one of the best places to live in PA.
Quick Facts About York, PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $254,891 |
| Median Household Income** | $42,351 |
| Average Rent*** | $1,289 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | A- |
Is York PA a good place to live?
Yes, York is a great place to live. York PA is ideal for families and professionals looking for a small-town atmosphere with affordable living and proximity to major urban centers. With York PA overflowing with industries known all around the country, York has no shortage of jobs with an unemployment rate of only 3.9%.
5. Philadelphia
As the largest city in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia is known for its rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant arts and culinary scenes. It offers a broad range of living options, from trendy urban areas to quiet suburban spaces, making it a versatile choice for any lifestyle.
There is no shortage of things to do in Philadelphia if you’re looking for weekend plans. From iconic museums to spots for an iconic Philly cheesesteak, you won’t go hungry or bored. Plus, Philadelphia’s housing options are more affordable than many other major cities in the U.S.
Quick Facts About Philadelphia PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $223,488 |
| Median Household Income** | $52,650 |
| Average Rent*** | $1,403 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | C+ |
Is Philadelphia a good place to live?
Yes, Philadelphia is an excellent choice for those seeking a diverse urban lifestyle with access to historical landmarks, educational institutions, and job opportunities.
6. Allentown
Allentown has seen significant economic growth in recent years, offering job opportunities, a lively arts scene, and affordable living. The city is home to numerous parks and cultural institutions, making it a great place for both professionals and families. Allentown is the third-largest city in Pennsylvania, making this town ideal for those still looking for a city atmosphere but with a little less buzz.
Allentown was named a national success story by the Urban Land Institute due to its redevelopment of the downtown area, and the progress hasn’t stopped from there. The city’s transformation has brought new attractions like PPL Center, which hosts concerts, sporting events, shopping, and hotels!
Quick Facts About Allentown, PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $285,683 |
| Median Household Income** | $52,449 |
| Average Rent*** | $1,591 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | C- |
Is Allentown PA a good place to live?
Yes, Allentown’s revitalization and affordable living make it attractive for young professionals and families looking for a vibrant yet affordable city.
7. Bethlehem
Christmas lovers, you’ll adore this one! Bethlehem is steeped in history, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and strong community spirit, especially around the holidays, as it’s known as the “Christmas City.” The town is ideal for those seeking a tight-knit community with access to cultural events and higher education, thanks to Lehigh University.
Aside from celebrating Christmas, Bethlehem is full of things to do year-round. Bethlehem’s downtown area is full of exciting shops and breweries and is where all the action takes place. Looking to see a concert? Have you ever seen one from inside an old steel mill? Well, now you can from Bethlehem’s SteelStacks.
This is just the tip of the iceberg. For the full list, check out our blog on all the fun things to do in this iconic city. Bethlehem PA is truly one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania.
Quick Facts About Bethlehem, PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $331,242 |
| Median Household Income** | $62,072 |
| Average Rent*** | $1,852 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | B |
Is Bethlehem PA a good place to live?
Yes, Bethlehem is a wonderful place to live, especially for those who value history, community events, and a strong sense of local culture.
8. Erie
Located on the shores of Lake Erie, the city offers affordable housing, beautiful waterfront views, and outdoor recreational activities year-round. Erie is perfect for those who enjoy a quieter, slower-paced lifestyle with access to boating, fishing, and other lake activities.
Just steps away from Presque Isle State Park, this destination is perfect for those who crave to live by the water but don’t care for the rowdy beach life. Plus, housing on Lake Erie costs 34% less than the national average.
Quick Facts About Erie, PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $181,810 |
| Median Household Income** | $43,135 |
| Average Rent*** | $873 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | C+ |
Is Erie PA a good place to live?
Yes, Erie PA is a fantastic place to live! if you’re seeking affordable waterfront living and a variety of outdoor activities in a close-knit community.
9. Reading
Reading is surrounded by scenic parks and trails, making it an excellent place for nature lovers, while also offering affordable homes and cultural attractions like the Reading Public Museum. The city has a rich historical background, and its revitalizing downtown has been attracting new businesses and residents.
The city is home to the Santander Arena, which hosts concerts, sporting events, and more, making it a cultural hub in the region. Reading’s accessibility to nearby metropolitan areas, such as Philadelphia, adds to its appeal, offering a small-city atmosphere with big-city conveniences.
Quick Facts About Reading, PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $240,807 |
| Median Household Income** | $74,617 |
| Average Rent*** | $1,254 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | A- |
Is Reading PA a good place to live?
Yes, Reading is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking affordable living with proximity to both nature and urban conveniences.
10. West Chester
West Chester is a beautiful suburban area with a rich historical downtown, top-rated schools, and a thriving restaurant and arts scene. It’s a family-friendly area with excellent amenities and easy access to larger cities like Philadelphia. West Chester University adds youthful energy to the town, offering cultural events, lectures, and performances that enrich the local arts scene.
Quick Facts About West Chester, PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $618,450 |
| Median Household Income** | $71,875 |
| Average Rent*** | $2,013 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | A |
Is West Chester PA a good place to live?
Yes, West Chester is a top choice for families and professionals seeking suburban living with a historic downtown and strong community services.
11. Norristown
Norristown is a growing suburban area that offers affordable housing, access to public transportation, and proximity to Philadelphia for those who want a quieter home base with city conveniences. It’s an up-and-coming area with a focus on revitalizing its downtown and attracting new residents and businesses.
Norristown PA is home to attractions like the Elmwood Park Zoo, hiking trails, and much more. Norristown’s convenient location near major highways and public transit options, including SEPTA rail lines, makes it easy for residents to commute to Philadelphia or explore other nearby towns in the region.
Quick Facts About Norristown, PA
| Factor | Amount/Rating |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price* | $310,275 |
| Median Household Income** | $59,068 |
| Average Rent*** | $1,742 |
| Overall Public School Rating**** | C |
Is Norristown PA a good place to live?
Yes, Norristown is becoming a desirable location for those seeking affordable housing and proximity to Philadelphia’s job market and amenities!
What is the Cost of Living in PA?
The cost of living in Pennsylvania is generally affordable compared to national averages, but it can vary widely depending on the city or town.
Overall, Pennsylvania has a median household expenditure of $76,490 which is 1.03% lower than the national household expenditure of $77,280. Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns like Scranton or Erie offer lower housing and utility costs.
How Much are Closing Costs in PA?
In Pennsylvania, sellers typically face closing costs of about 8% to 10% of the home’s sale price. Buyers, on the other hand, usually pay closing costs ranging from 2% to 5% of the property’s purchase price.
Of course, your rate may vary depending on your overall housing price, location, loans, and down payment amount. The average housing costs in Pennsylvania come in at around $269,276 according to Zillow. At this amount, the closing costs for your house should fall around $5,385.52 to $13,463.80.
Best Schools in PA
The best schools will vary based on where you live in PA. Here are some of the top-rated public school districts in the state:
- Lower Merion School District: Consistently ranked among the top school districts in Pennsylvania, it is known for its rigorous academic programs, strong extracurricular activities, and high graduation rates.
- Radnor Township School District: Celebrated for its academic excellence and supportive learning environment. The district offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement courses.
- North Allegheny School District: It is renowned for its challenging academic curriculum, which includes a variety of honors and advanced placement courses, as well as strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs.
Higher Education
- The University of Pennsylvania: A prestigious Ivy League institution located in Philadelphia, it is known for its rigorous academic programs and diverse range of graduate and undergraduate degrees.
- Carnegie Mellon University: Renowned for its programs in technology, arts, and business, this Pittsburgh-based university consistently ranks among the top universities in the country.
- Temple University: Located in Philadelphia, Temple is known for its diverse programs and strong emphasis on research, with a vibrant campus life and extensive community engagement opportunities.
Is Pennsylvania a Safe Place to Live?
Overall, Pennsylvania has relatively low crime rates, but safety can vary by city and neighborhood. Cities like Allentown and Bethlehem are known for being family-friendly and safe, while areas in larger cities like Philadelphia may require more research on specific neighborhoods.
What is the weather like in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and hot summers, varying slightly between regions. Residents in cities like Erie and Scranton can expect heavy snowfalls in winter, while southern areas like Philadelphia enjoy milder winters and hotter summers.
Ready to make the move to PA?
If you’re considering a move to PA, be sure to familiarize yourself with local neighborhoods, schools, and amenities to find the best fit for your lifestyle. If you’ve decided PA is where you want to be, be sure to create a moving checklist, change your address, and register your vehicle.
Most importantly, don’t forget about your utilities before you make the move! Keep in mind, if you’re moving out of state to PA, you might have to switch your utility provider for gas and electricity. Contact your electricity, gas, water, and internet providers to schedule disconnection at your old address and connection at your new one.
Pennsylvania offers a range of cities and towns that cater to various lifestyles, from urban environments like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to family-friendly communities. Many of the cities we’ve highlighted feature strong community ties, vibrant local cultures, and numerous recreational activities, making them ideal places for families and professionals alike.
As you explore these fantastic places to live, consider how Santanna Energy Services can support your energy needs. We provide innovative electricity and natural gas plans tailored for Pennsylvania residents, ensuring you stay comfortable in your new home while getting the energy you need.
*Average household prices sourced from Zillow.
** Average income from the United States Census.
***Average rent sourced from Apartments.com.
****Public school rating from Niche.com.
We love our Pennsylvania customers! Santanna Energy Services has been proudly providing easy home electricity and gas plans to our Pennsylvania customers for over 35 years. We’re proud to offer a wide range of renewable energy solutions and products tailored to meet the unique needs of our customers. Our mission is to provide innovative and cost-effective energy solutions that will help our customers achieve their energy goals and help the environment along the way.
Jenna loves to use her voice to spread awareness about reforestation, eco-friendly initiatives, and protecting planet Earth. She's passionate about making the world a better place and is driven by her desire to give back to the planet. She is committed to learning more about the environment and its preservation and is a strong believer in the power of education and activism.
