Pennsylvania, hidden within the vibrant tapestry of the Northeastern United States, is home to a broad range of municipalities, each with its distinct character and attraction. From bustling cities to quaint little towns and gorgeous rural settings, the Keystone State offers a plethora of possibilities for individuals looking for the perfect spot to call home.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the greatest areas to live in Pennsylvania, emphasizing characteristics like quality of life, affordability, amenities, and possibilities for people. Whether you prefer the cultural richness of cities or the calm of rural retreats, Pennsylvania has something for everyone.
1. Philadelphia
Philadelphia, the country’s sixth-largest city, is a significant economic engine in the Northeast, so it has plenty of metropolitan amenities in addition to its historical and cultural attractions. According to Abby Trimborn, co-founder of Philly Property Group, one of the city’s most valuable assets is its ideal location in the region.
With New York City and Washington, D.C. less than two hours away from downtown Philadelphia, residents have access to two more large job markets while living in a city with a significantly lower cost of living.
Trimborn also stated that demand for properties in Philadelphia has reduced by 14%, which is good news for purchasers. “We are currently positioned in ‘lower demand,’ which means it’s more favorable for buyers in this market,” she went on to say.
She emphasized the family-friendly Northern Liberties neighborhood, which has had a building boom in recent years, with over 5,200 residential units completed or in progress. According to Zillow, the city’s median home value is $215,593.
2. Lancaster
Lancaster’s cost of living is roughly the national average. However, Zillow reports that median property prices are roughly $50,000 lower, at around $337,233. This is one of the reasons Lancaster is a great place to retire; it is rated third on U.S. News & World Report’s most recent list of the best places to retire in the United States, thanks in part to affordable housing and access to superb health care.
The region combines urban and agricultural environments, providing residents an option between two diverse lives. Lancaster, located in the heart of Pennsylvania Amish country, offers a diverse blend of cultures, as evidenced by its thriving arts scene.
3. Kennett Square
Kennett Square, located 40 miles west of Philadelphia, borders Delaware and is part of Chester County, which is well-known for its superb schools. Kennett Square residents enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including miles of hiking and biking trails.
Annual events such as the Mushroom Festival (the town is regarded as the Mushroom Capital of the World due to its abundance of mushroom farms) and the numerous museums and historic landmarks make it a popular tourist destination as well as a social hub. However, this does not mean that people are limited to historic homes.
“New townhomes and apartments are popping up around the town with easy walkability to local restaurants and pubs, parks, and exercise facilities,” noted Paul Greenholt, real estate agent with Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate. Kennett Square’s median home price is currently $566,196, up six percent from last year.
4. Harrisburg
Harrisburg is considerably more than just Pennsylvania’s administrative center. The capital is steeped in history; it houses the National Civil War Museum and is less than an hour from Gettysburg National Military Park.
The Susquehanna River runs through the city, and the Appalachian Trail is immediately north of it, so inhabitants may enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, water sports, and camping. U.S. News & World Report just named Harrisburg the best place to retire in the United States and the 38th best place to live in the country.
5. Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh may be known as Steel City because of its contribution to the country’s steel industry, but the city’s arts scene is far more spectacular. It includes nearly 40 museums, including the Andy Warhol Museum and the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, as well as 30 performance venues, and it leads the nation in direct arts investment.
Pittsburgh is also a technology hotspot, attracting AI and robotics graduates as well as highly educated people looking to advance their careers in education, finance, and healthcare.
Finally, while property costs have risen here, they remain significantly lower than in other Northeast cities, with median home values of $222,433, according to Zillow.
Final Words
Finally, Pennsylvania provides a wide range of living possibilities, from the metropolitan allure of Philadelphia to the historical charm of Lancaster, the cultural vibrancy of Kennett Square, the historic significance of Harrisburg, and the arts and technological hub of Pittsburgh. Each area provides citizens with unique opportunities and attractions, making Pennsylvania a livable and appealing state.
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