11 of the Best Places to Live in PA

Quick Facts About the Best Places to Live in PA 

*Population taken from the time this article was written; numbers are subject to change. 

Quick Facts About Pittsburgh, PA 

Quick Facts About Lancaster, PA 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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 

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

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.