From the Liberty Bell to your front door—Pennsylvania is calling! Home prices are 31.5% lower and the cost of living is 4% below the US median. Plus, the Keystone State ranks #11 in the nation for healthcare, which ensures that you will be well taken care of.
You can enjoy the buzz of Philadelphia or the peaceful vibes of the Pocono Mountains. And the cherry on top? It provides easy access to NYC, and of course, sun-soaked Sundays at the Jersey Shore! Just remember, Ladies and gentlemen of the class of ’99: Wear sunscreen!
What Are the Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania?
| # City | Weighted Average Scores | Median House Price | Median Income | Cost of Living | Community Wellbeing | Crime Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Scranton | 56.58 | $162,500 | $66,007 | 4.10% ⬇️ | 57 | 25 |
| 2. Erie | 55.39 | $144,950 | $56,399 | 9.80% ⬇️ | 52 | 15 |
| 3. Pittsburgh | 54.13 | $244,000 | $85,816 | 3.00% ⬇️ | 68 | 5 |
| 4. Harrisburg | 53.12 | $158,900 | $50,874 | 12.30% ⬇️ | 64 | 9 |
| 5. Conshohocken | 50.97 | $383,750 | $135,072 | 14.40% ⬆️ | 75 | 55 |
| 6. Easton | 49.54 | $288,750 | $76,563 | 7.00% ⬆️ | 61 | 36 |
| 7. State College | 46.90 | $501,530 | $124,456 | 7.60% ⬇️ | 57 | 40 |
| 8. Bethlehem | 45.49 | $309,000 | $76,937 | 7.20% ⬆️ | 60 | 24 |
| 9. Gettysburg | 43.09 | $349,000 | $81,845 | 5.40% ⬆️ | 53 | 59 |
| 10. Allentown | 41.65 | $249,950 | $57,088 | 7.20% ⬆️ | 63 | 19 |
*These cities are ranked based on our research methodology.
To simplify your search in the Pennsylvania housing market, we’ve sorted the top 10 cities into four categories: for young adults, for families, for retirees, and for black families. Each city is evaluated based on career opportunities, affordability, community wellbeing, and lifestyle.
3 Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania for Young Adults 💼
1. Pittsburgh
- Median House Price: $244K
- Cost of Living: 3% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 5% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 5.70%
- Walkability Score: 62; it is somewhat walkable.
Steel City’s got a new shine—and it’s not just the Steelers’ helmets! Its job market is as strong as its bridges, with Google and UPMC calling it home. Moreover, picture yourself landing a tech job while you enjoy house prices that are 23.3% below the US median!
After work, grab a sandwich at the iconic Primanti Bros., where fries come on the sandwich (yes, on the sandwich!) On weekends, lace up your hiking boots for a stroll along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail—just be sure you don’t get distracted by Pittsburgh’s famous pierogies!
» Pittsburgh Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the best places to live in PA.
2. Conshohocken
- Median House Price: $383K
- Cost of Living: 14.4% ⬆️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 55% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 3.50%
- Walkability Score: 81; it is very walkable.
Say hello to ‘Conshy’, where small-town charm meets big-city convenience! Just a hop from Philly, it’s perfect for young professionals. With education as the top employer and finance close behind, you will land your next gig faster than you can say “Philly cheesesteak”.
You can start your morning with a fresh brew from Feine. Then you can grab lunch at Flanigan’s Boathouse. You can round off the day with craft beers at Conshohocken Brewing Co., because here work-life balance isn’t just a goal—it’s a lifestyle.
» Conshohocken Homes for Sale: Find properties in the best town to live in PA.
3. State College
- Median House Price: $501K
- Cost of Living: 7.60% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 40% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 3.90%
- Walkability Score: 68; it is somewhat walkable.
Welcome to “Happy Valley,” where opportunities are as abundant as the Nittany Lions’ fans! State College is a young professional’s dream, powered by the influence of Penn State University. With thriving sectors in education, tech, and research, the economy is booming.
After work, you can relax at The State Theatre which offers live music. To unwind, you can also hike the trails at Rothrock State Forest. Just remember: it’s not about the destination, it’s about the view along the journey (and maybe the snacks in your backpack).
» State College Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the good places to live in Pennsylvania.
3 Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania for Families 👨👩👧👦
1. Scranton
- Median House Price: $162K
- Cost of Living: 4.10% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 25% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 5.60%
- Walkability Score: 58; it is somewhat walkable.
Flip the switch to the “Electric City”—a perfect pick for families! Healthcare leads the job market, which employs 15.8% of jobs. Also, schools outperform 21.2% of all US school districts. These factors combined make it the best place to live in Pennsylvania for families.
On weekends, you can visit the Steamtown National Historic Site for a blast from the past (we’re talking vintage trains, not your high school prom). For a nature fix, head to Nay Aug Park with your family to explore beautiful waterfalls and scenic trails.
» Scranton Homes for Sale: Find top properties in one of the best areas to live in Pennsylvania.
2. Harrisburg
- Median House Price: $158K
- Cost of Living: 12.30% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 9% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 9%
- Walkability Score: 68; it is somewhat walkable.
Make your home in Pennsylvania’s capital! Harrisburg offers great value, with median home prices 42.4% below the state median. Its schools outperform 54.4% of US school districts, which makes it one of the best places to raise family Pennsylvania.
On weekends, you can explore the Pennsylvania State Capitol and dive into the city’s history. Then, take the family to The Millworks for a delicious farm-to-table meal. And when you need to burn off those dinner calories, mini-golf on City Island is waiting!
» Harrisburg Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the best areas in Pennsylvania to live.
3. Bethlehem
- Median House Price: $309K
- Cost of Living: 7.20% ⬆️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 24% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 5.60%
- Walkability Score: 59; it is somewhat walkable.
Welcome to “Christmas City,” where opportunity shines year-round! Bethlehem’s healthcare sector is the top employer, which accounts for 17% of jobs. Also, with schools that outperform 29% of all US school districts, it is one of the best places to raise a family in Pennsylvania.
Beyond this, the city also has much to offer! You can visit the Lehigh Valley Zoo for a fun weekend with your family. Also, don’t miss Musikfest held every summer! It is the nation’s largest free music festival, which features live performances across all genres.
» Bethlehem Homes for Sale: Find properties in one of the nice places to live in Pennsylvania.
2 Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania for Retirees 🏖️
1. Erie
- Median House Price: $144K
- Cost of Living: 9.80% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 15% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 6.80%
- Walkability Score: 60; it is somewhat walkable.
Erie is the best place to retire in Pennsylvania. Its median home prices are 59% below the state median, so you can stretch that pension without sacrificing your daily coffee habit. Moreover, UPMC Hamot Hospital ensures top-notch healthcare, just in case you need a check-up.
You won’t be bored either! When you are not enjoying the view from Presque Isle State Park, you can fish, swim, or just relax by the lake. For a more laid-back day, swing by the Erie Zoo or check out the Erie Maritime Museum for a slice of local history.
» Erie Homes for Sale: Browse homes in one of the best cities to live in Pennsylvania.
2. Gettysburg
- Median House Price: $349K
- Cost of Living: 5.40% ⬆️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 59% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 6.90%
- Walkability Score: 88; it is very walkable.
Gettysburg is one of the best places to retire in Pennsylvania. WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital makes sure you have healthcare covered, from routine visits to retirement-related concerns. After all, the only battles you should be fighting are with your TV remote, not your health!
In addition to its healthcare excellence, it offers a rich tapestry of history and culture. You can step back in time at the Gettysburg National Military Park. And for a peaceful retreat, visit Adams County Winery for some local wine—after all, you have earned it!
» Gettysburg Homes for Sale: Browse homes in one of the best towns to live in PA.
2 Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania for Black Families
1. Easton
- Median House Price: $288K
- Cost of Living: 7% ⬆️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 36% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 4.40%
- Walkability Score: 67; it is somewhat walkable.
Easton is a diverse city, with 16.1% of its population identifying as Black. Moreover, housing costs are 3% below the national average. Also, its schools outperform 34.2% of all US school districts, which makes it the best place to live in PA for Black families.
You can spend your weekends at the Crayola Experience, where your kids can unleash their creativity with hands-on art activities. You can also enjoy live performances at the State Theatre or attend festivals and community events at Centre Square.
» Easton Homes for Sale: Explore houses in one of the best cities in Pennsylvania to live.
2. Allentown
- Median House Price: $249K
- Cost of Living: 7.20% ⬆️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 19% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 9.20%
- Walkability Score: 67; it is somewhat walkable.
Allentown is a great choice for Black families, with 13% of black population. Just a short drive from Philadelphia, it offers easy access to big-city amenities. Moreover, the city’s schools rank better than 13.2% of all PA school districts, which makes it ideal for families.
For a fun day out with the family, you can check out Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. It is an amusement park with thrilling rides and water attractions. You can also visit the Allentown Art Museum to explore its impressive collection of American art and contemporary works.
» Allentown Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the best cities to live in PA.
Mortgage Pre-Approval: Your First Step to Buy a Home 🏡
Mortgage pre-approval simplifies the home-buying process by giving you a clear picture of your budget and borrowing capacity. Plus, sellers are more likely to accept your offer if you’re pre-approved since it shows you’re a serious buyer.
With the current low mortgage rate of 6.7%, there is an increase in home-buying demand in Pennsylvania. So, don’t wait. Get a mortgage pre-approval today and avoid bidding wars!
Is Pennsylvania the Right Place for Your Next Move?
Pennsylvania is one of the best places to live in the US due to its robust economy and pleasant climate. It also has a flourishing job market and picturesque landscape. Moreover, the price of living in Pennsylvania is 3% lower than the national average.
Browse Homes for Sale in Pennsylvania by Price and Type
Research Methodology for the Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania
This study ranks cities using a weighted average scoring model based on eight parameters. We’ve linked the resources used in our study of the best places to live in the Keystone State:
- Redfin[1]: Median House Price
- Zipatlas[2]: Population, Median Income, Expenses, Unemployment Rate
- Salary.com[3]: Cost of Living
- Sharecare[4]: Community Well-Being
- Neighborhoodscout[5]: Crime Index Score
The total score for each city combines a weighted score for its rank. Here’s the weightage: population (10%), home price (20%), income (20%), expenses (15%), unemployment (15%), cost of living (10%), crime index (5%), and well-being (5%).
Additionally, we have listed the good cities to live in Pennsylvania for varying demographics. These include the best places to live for families, young adults, and retirees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pittsburgh PA a nice place to live?
Yes, Pittsburgh is a fantastic place to live. It offers a mix of affordability, job opportunities, and a vibrant cultural scene. If you are considering moving to Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh’s strong economy and welcoming neighborhoods make it a top contender.
What are the best places to stay in Pennsylvania?
Places like Scranton, Erie, and Pittsburgh are among the nicest places to live in PA. They provide affordable housing, vibrant job markets, and diverse community amenities. Knowing how to buy a house in Pennsylvania can make it easier to find the perfect home in these areas.
What are the to live in Pennsylvania?
Cities like Sharon and Oil City are among the cheapest places to live in Pennsylvania. They offer affordable living with a great quality of life.
