Top 10 Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania

One of the big perks of living in Pennsylvania? The low cost of living.

The Keystone State offers job opportunities, amenities, and overall wonderful quality of life. Although Pennsylvania is the fifth-most populous in the nation, more than half of this northeastern state is forested. This means you have beautiful national parks, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and mountains right at your doorstep, waiting to be explored.

Be sure you have a down jacket and swimsuit in your wardrobe because you will experience all four seasons here. During winters, expect flurries and snow, while summers will be warm and wet. As one of the original 13 colonies, history is sewn into the fabric of each city in Pennsylvania.

You will find museums and sites dedicated to preserving the state’s rich history. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh don’t appear on this list, as their housing cost-to-income ratio is quite high in comparison to the cities below, making these cities great places to build a home in Pennsylvania. So keep scrolling to learn more about charming lesser-known towns in Pennsylvania that can be just as attractive to call home.

1. Sharon

• Housing cost to income ratio: 1.28
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.89%
• Violent crime index: 55.0
• Nonviolent crime index: 63.5
• Cost of living index: 67.0

If you are ready for small town charm, the city of Sharon is a quaint setting, home to about 13,000. Sharon rises to the top of the list as it has the lowest housing cost-to-income ratio, contributing to its low cost of living. This tight-knit community is on the border of Ohio. The excellent location puts you within a 90-minute drive northwest to Cleveland or south to Pittsburgh. 

Sharon experiences a typical Northeastern climate. Summers are warm and occasionally humid, while winters are cold and snowy. The area enjoys a full four-season experience, with beautiful spring and fall seasons displaying lovely changes in foliage. When you choose to live nestled in Mercer County, you can enjoy a variety of activities. Be sure to check out Frank H. Buhl Mansion, Buhl Park, and Buhl Park Golf Course. In addition to golfing, there are tennis courts, trails, and a lake in Buhl Park. Bring your pup to Buhl Park to enjoy a walk. Nearby state parks like Maurice K. Goddard State Park and McConnells Mill State Park offer hiking, camping, and beautiful natural scenery.

The city has a rich cultural scene. The Sharon Historical Society highlights the area’s history, while the Winner Arts & Culture Center offers art exhibitions and cultural events. The nearby town of Hermitage houses the Avenue of 444 Flags, a patriotic and historical site. Sharon City School District serves the area with a focus on providing quality education. Sharon High School is known for its academic and athletic programs. If you prefer private schools. Faith-based education is found at Kennedy Catholic High School.

Along with education, healthcare is always an important need for a new resident. Sharon residents receive comprehensive healthcare from both Sharon Regional Medical Center and UPMC Horizon.

If you want to feel the powerful sense of community, attend the popular Waterfire Sharon event. This is a unique event that combines music, art, and fire on the Shenango River. Locals and visitors from the area make their way to this annual event. Sharon also goes all out for the holidays with seasonal downtown decorations.

The economy in Sharon is a mix of manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. Major employers include Sharon Regional Medical Center and Winner International. The city has been working towards revitalizing its downtown area to encourage local businesses and tourism.

With a fantastic location, natural beauty, rich community life, and a commitment to preserving its unique heritage, Sharon has the #1 spot on our best places to live list. If you are looking for a welcoming environment, Sharon with its blend of suburban and rural living might just check off your wants and needs list.

2. Johnstown

• Housing cost to income ratio: 1.38
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 3.81%
• Violent crime index: 33.9
• Nonviolent crime index: 47.7
• Cost of living index: 69.2

20,000 residents. The town is relaxed and has all the amenities of city life without the hectic traffic, air pollution, or crime. Loretto, Southmont, and Geistown are some of the popular suburbs. Johnstown is chock full of history but is perhaps most well-known for the 1889 catastrophic flood.

The ​Johnstown Flood Museum provides more insight into this historical event. The Johnstown Inclined Plane is also a beloved attraction, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the landscape. Check out other popular sites like the Heritage Discovery Center and Stackhouse Park. The Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center celebrates the cultural diversity of the region.

With an affordable cost of living, this Cambria County area is an appealing choice for potential new homebuyers. There is picturesque scenery and great recreational opportunities in the Laurel Highlands region. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby hiking and biking trails. The Conemaugh River provides opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Looking for more parks for family outings? Nearby Laurel Ridge State Park and Stackhouse Park will allow you to hike, picnic, and enjoy the natural beauty of this part of the state.

Rest easy knowing the area is served by the Greater Johnstown School District as well as private school options like Bishop McCort High School. Medical care is served by the professional staff at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, one of the area’s largest employers. With an economy supported by healthcare and manufacturing, Johnstown is also seeing a diversity in its economy with tech startups and small businesses. Large defense contractors like Lockheed Martin also offer career opportunities.

Johnstown hosts several annual festivals, including the popular Johnstown FolkFest, which celebrates the area’s ethnic heritage, and the Thunder in the Valley motorcycle rally. Residents also enjoy easy access to delicious dining and shopping.

Johnstown offers a mix of historical significance, natural beauty, and a vision that maintains its deep roots while progressing toward the future. Give Johnstown thoughtful consideration as you ponder your journey of new homeownership.

3. York

• Housing cost to income ratio: 1.46
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.31%
• Violent crime index: 45.0
• Nonviolent crime index: 46.1
• Cost of living index: 75.8

A safe and family-friendly town, York has a population of around 44,000 and is a short drive away from Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Hershey. York is known as the first capital of the United States, as the Continental Congress adopted the Articles of Confederation there in 1777. It is also famous for the York Peppermint Pattie, which originated in York in 1940. The city is known for Bonham House, Colonial Complex, and tours at the Harley-Davidson factory.

Events like the annual 10-day York Fair at the end of summer are highly anticipated by the residents. The annual Yorkfest Fine Arts Festival highlights local art and culture. Affordable housing, excellent schools, and easy amenities are some of the draws of this welcoming city.

The slower pace of life happens with limited nightlife, but there are great bars and restaurants to enjoy. Motorcycle enthusiasts will spend hours exploring the back roads for fun rides. Living in the historic heart of Pennsylvania offers a unique blend of rich history, cultural vibrancy, and a keen sense of community, making it a desirable place for new homebuyers.

With snowy winters and a pleasant spring, it is understandable why residents spend time outdoors hiking,  biking, and horseback riding. The Heritage Rail Trail Park is a popular destination for these activities. Codorus State Park is another spot for boating, fishing, and camping. Nearby attractions include the Rocky Ridge County Park and William Kain Park, both offering beautiful landscapes for outdoor recreation. Looking for a friendly place for Fido? York is home to dog-friendly parks like Canine Meadows at John Rudy County Park, where dogs can play.

Check out the museums and cultural attractions. York boasts the York County History Center and the Agricultural & Industrial Museum. Searching for a variety of performances and events? The Appell Center for the Performing Arts is the place to be.

The York City School District and Central York School District provide exceptional academic and extracurricular programs. There are also private options like York Country Day School and Christian School of York. If you are wanting to secure excellent healthcare the WellSpan York Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, and UPMC Memorial, offer a wide range of medical services.

There’s fun to be found in York. The York Fair, dating back to 1765, is a major attraction with rides, games, and agricultural displays. The Olde York Street Fair is a Mother’s Day tradition with food, crafts, and entertainment.

The strong economy is bolstered by manufacturing, healthcare, and education as significant sectors. Find career opportunities with major employers including Dentsply Sirona, WellSpan Health, and York Hospital. Small business is also a vital part of the economy.

There are inviting new home communities in York and the welcoming suburbs. Popular places to find welcoming new floor plans are in suburbs like Manchester, East Berlin, Hanover, and Dover. With excellent amenities and features that appeal to today’s modern families, find a new home in the York area that suits your lifestyle. York is an attractive locale for potential new homebuyers.

4. Scranton-Wilkes-Barre

• Housing cost to income ratio: 5.11
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.93%
• Violent crime index: 22.8
• Nonviolent crime index: 46.3
• Cost of living index: 71.3

Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, in northeastern Pennsylvania, are on our list for a variety of reasons. You will discover this area is separated by a 30-minute drive. Live in a beautiful area set in a valley surrounded by coal-rich mountains. Each city offers unique and interesting opportunities for growth, recreation, and culture.

Scranton is remarkably diverse. Much of the population is made up of Irish, Italian, and Polish residents with a growing segment of Hispanics and Middle Easterners. For those looking to start a family, housing is relatively affordable and available. Scranton is known as the Electric City. This moniker comes from the electric streetcars found here as early as the 1880s. The region’s coal mining history is a significant part of its cultural heritage, and it played a crucial role in the industrial development of the United States.

Wilkes-Barre is a progressive city with a population of over 40,000. Nicknamed “The Diamond City” for the coal reserves in the area, Wilkes-Barre is nirvana for whitewater rafting, hiking, and kayaking on the Susquehanna River.

Education is highly-touted as well; the University of Scranton ranked fifth in 2022 as the best regional college in the north, and the community colleges are just as competitive. The region has a range of educational institutions. Public schools like Scranton High School and Wilkes-Barre Area High School offer diverse educational programs. Private schools, such as Wyoming Seminary and Scranton Preparatory School, provide alternative educational environments with an emphasis on strong academics.

Recreational activities and attractions are abundant. Check out spots such as Montage Mountain Ski Resort, Montage Mountain Water Park, The Steamtown National Historic Site, the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, the Electric City Trolley Museum, Anthracite Museum, St. Peter’s Cathedral, and St. Anne’s Basilica.

Winter sports enthusiasts appreciate the snow and wintry weather for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snow tubing. Mild spring and autumn seasons allow for hiking, fishing, and camping at Lackawanna State Park and Ricketts Glen State Park with its beautiful waterfalls. The Susquehanna River provides opportunities for boating and fishing. Nay Aug Park in Scranton offers beautiful trails, a treehouse, and a museum. Frances Slocum State Park and Nescopeck State Park are other popular destinations for nature lovers. Your pups will feel right at home at Scranton’s Connell Park and the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, where dogs can enjoy walks and playtime.

Experience a rich history and culture. The Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton celebrates the area’s railroad history. The Everhart Museum offers a variety of natural history, science, and art exhibits. The Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre puts on local theater productions. Get ready to enjoy Irish food and revelry at the Scranton St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the largest in the country. Wilkes-Barre is known for celebrating arts and culture at the Fine Arts Fiesta.

To be sure you are covered for excellent schools, hospitals, and services. The professional staff at Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital will take care of all your medical needs. From a variety of delicious dining including ethnic fare, comfort food, and upscale dining, your palate will be pleased.

Job opportunities come from a variety of sectors including healthcare, education, and retail. Major employers include the Commonwealth Health system, Geisinger Health System, and various educational institutions like the University of Scranton and Wilkes University.

Scranton-Wilkes-Barre is an attractive and affordable option for new homebuyers seeking a community-oriented lifestyle. There are welcoming new home communities offering innovative floor plans in inviting suburbs like White Haven, Pittston, and Shavertown. Find the perfect new home for your needs in Scranton-Wilkes-Barre.

5. Poconos

• Housing cost to income ratio: 2.36
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.05%
• Violent crime index: 16.7
• Nonviolent crime index: 29.2
• Cost of living index: 94.1

Live in a stunning northeastern part of the state in the Poconos. The Pocono Mountains, more commonly known as Poconos, is the perfect place for those with active lifestyles. This magical town is home to around 10,000. You will find multiple ski resorts, excellent schools, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Poconos.

The region is renowned for its outdoor activities. Nature lovers are in paradise at spots like Hickory Run State Park. Imagine swimming in the waterfalls. Boaters spend time at Promised Land State Park. There are slopes for skiers. Skiing and snowboarding are popular at resorts like Camelback Mountain and Blue Mountain. Another wonderful place is the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, offering miles of trails, waterfalls, and river activities. Gorgeous year-round, the city promises to be a place where you can have fun and experience all four seasons. So, whether it is hiking, boating, swimming, or snowboarding, there is no shortage of things to do.

After a long day connecting with nature, wind down at a local winery or brewery. Local favorites include Barley Creek Brewing Company, Antler Ridge Winery, and Keystone Brewpub. If you are looking for a unique thing to do with your pet, take a pet-friendly train ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.

Other interesting explorations include the Pocono Indian Museum, the Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, and the Asa Packer Mansion Museum. Numerous festivals provide a strong sense of community and fun including the Pocono Garlic & Harvest Festival, the Wally Lake Fest, and various arts and craft shows.

Aside from the scenic beauty, services are especially important. Area school districts including Pocono Mountain, East Stroudsburg, and Stroudsburg serve this region offering diverse education and extracurricular activities. For those desiring private schooling options, Monsignor McHugh School is a popular choice. Comprehensive medical care is provided by the Lehigh Valley Hospital-Pocono and the St. Luke’s Monroe Campus.

Tourism plays a key role in the economy. Major employers include the Kalahari Resorts, Sanofi Pasteur, and the East Stroudsburg University. The region also encourages small businesses and startups, contributing to economic growth.

While the Poconos region is a popular honeymoon destination, it also boasts spectacular fall foliage as well. With a stunning backdrop, easy services, and cultural richness, Poconos might be the ideal spot for potential homebuyers. Popular suburbs for Poconos new homes include Lehighton, Blakeslee, and Lake Ariel.

6. Altoona

• Housing cost to income ratio: 2.44
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.86%
• Violent crime index: 22.8
• Nonviolent crime index: 30.8
• Cost of living index: 72.9

Convenience is the name of the game in Altoona, Pennsylvania. This friendly city is aligned to make life easy with a major strip offering a multitude of services, restaurants, and shops. Other major destinations are also within easy driving distance.

This is a wonderful choice for families. There are fun things to do with your  free time. Head to Canoe Creek to swim and fish, go bowling, or stop at the Jaffa Shrine Center for events like the circus. It is an easy place to make friends and create memories nestled in the scenic Allegheny Mountains. Discover small town charm and plenty of outdoor recreation. Hiking, mountain biking, and camping are popular in nearby state parks. Find green spaces in Lakemont Park, home to a historic amusement park. Be rewarded by scenic vistas from hikes in Trough Creek State Park. Altoona is home to dog-friendly parks and trails. Fort Roberdeau County Park and Valley View County Park are great for walks with furry friends.

The city also hosts community events like the Altoona First Frontier Festival, which celebrates local culture and history with music, art, and food. Altoona is rich in history, particularly regarding railroads. The Railroaders Memorial Museum and the Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark are must-visits for history enthusiasts. The Mishler Theatre provides a venue for performing arts. The Blair County Arts Festival and the Railfest celebrate the region’s cultural and historical heritage

The Altoona Area School District serves the city with schools like Altoona Area High School with its comprehensive curriculum. There are also private school options like the Altoona Central Catholic School for those wanting a religious affiliation for their children’s education. UPMC Altoona is the primary healthcare provider along with Tyrone Hospital and James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center.

Major employers in the area include UPMC Altoona and Sheetz, a convenience store chain. Career opportunities from key sectors include healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Altoona is also known for its contribution to the development of the American railroad industry.

Looking for a balance between urban amenities and outdoor living? Altoona checks off much of your wants and needs list. Find a welcoming home locale between Pittsburgh and Hershey.

7. Erie

• Housing cost to income ratio: 2.61
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 2.10%
• Violent crime index: 24.9
• Nonviolent crime index: 38.3
• Cost of living index: 74.6

At first glance, Erie may seem quiet but the city of 97,000 is packed with fun and opportunities. The city is on the south shore of Lake Erie, offering beautiful lakeside views. Erie is surrounded by three major cities: Cleveland, Buffalo, and Pittsburgh. Popular suburbs include Washington Township, Fairview, and Avonia, all of which are about a 30-minute drive from downtown. Residents include a fun mix of college students alongside working-class families. Erie is a place that offers all the amenities of a big city but in a small city format.

From the low cost of living to delicious restaurants, wonderful schools, and outdoor recreation, Erie promises something for everyone. Every summer, Erie turns into a beach town. You can explore the beaches of Presque Isle State Park, take the kiddos to Erie Zoo, or take a date to the Erie Art Museum.

You will also find excellent schooling options for families. Private school options include Cathedral Preparatory School and Mercyhurst Preparatory School, offering rigorous academics . The Erie School District serves the city with a range of public schools, known for their diverse programs and extracurricular activities. The city is also a hub for higher education, with institutions like Penn State Behrend and Gannon University. Major healthcare facilities include UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital, both providing comprehensive medical services.

The economy in Erie is diverse, with healthcare, education, and manufacturing being significant sectors. Key employers include UPMC Hamot, Erie Insurance Group, and General Electric Transportation. Find your share of employment at these and small businesses adding to the economy. Erie is known as the Flagship City because of the presence of the U.S. Brig Niagara, a historic ship, and the flagship of Commodore Perry. Erie’s location by the Great Lakes also makes it a vital part of shipping and trade routes.

Erie’s location on Lake Erie means water-based activities like boating, fishing, and beach outings are popular. Presque Isle State Park, a peninsula with beautiful beaches, trails, and birdwatching opportunities, is a highlight. Inland, there are numerous hiking and biking trails. Other notable green spaces include Frontier Park and Asbury Woods, which provide trails and nature experiences.

Erie hosts festivals throughout the year, including CelebrateErie, a summer festival showcasing local art, music, and cuisine, and the Erie Irish Festival, celebrating the city’s Irish heritage. The popular Erie Summer Festival of the Arts highlights amazing artists. Erie boasts a rich cultural scene with attractions like the Erie Art Museum, the Erie Maritime Museum, and the expERIEnce Children’s Museum. The Warner Theatre hosts various performances, adding to the city’s cultural offerings.

In summary, Erie has earned its way on this list as it offers new homebuyers a welcoming community with a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. If you desire a unique charm and excellent location, a new home in this area will surpass your expectations.

8. Harrisburg

• Housing cost to income ratio: 2.66
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.85%
• Violent crime index: 55.1
• Nonviolent crime index: 45.8
• Cost of living index: 88.1

The capital of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg, is the perfect place to raise a family. The housing is affordable, and it is close to many major cities like New York City, Philadelphia, DC, and Pittsburgh.

Learn more of this area’s rich history at the State Museum of Pennsylvania and the National Civil War Museum. Riverfront Park is great for jogging or biking, and City Island offers ball games, horse-drawn carriage rides, food, and fireworks on special nights.

Harrisburg is home to around 50,000. Enjoy both city and country life with great amenities, restaurants, shops, and services or take a drive right outside the city limits and be surrounded by cornfields. If you have a furry companion, the Capital Area Greenbelt is a 20-mile loop inside the city designed for walking, jogging, cycling, and dog walks. Riverfront Park and Fort Hunter Park are dog friendly. There are also dedicated dog parks, like the one in Lower Allen Community Park.

Harrisburg is nestled along the Susquehanna River, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and picturesque riverside walks. Nearby state parks like Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area and Gifford Pinchot State Park offer hiking, camping, and nature observation. Wildwood Park is a popular urban nature center with trails and a nature center. Fort Hunter Mansion and Park offers historical insight alongside its natural beauty. If you want to connect with nature, Harrisburg easily accommodates.

Enjoy a welcoming sense of community at events like the annual Harrisburg Artsfest, Kipona Festival, and the Pennsylvania Farm Show, the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the United States. Continue your revelry at more festivals like Harrisburg Beer Week, Harrisburg Wine Festival, and the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire located nearby. For a bit of culture attend performances and enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts.

The Harrisburg area is served by the Harrisburg School District, with notable schools like SciTech High, a highly rated magnet school focused on science and technology. There are also private schools, such as Harrisburg Academy, offering a rigorous academic program. Prominent hospitals include UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, a major healthcare provider, and the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, known for its research and specialized care.

Harrisburg played a vital role during the Civil War and Westward Expansion. Its location along the Susquehanna River has been pivotal in its economic and cultural development. The diverse economy is anchored by government services, healthcare, and trade. As the state capital, government employment is significant. Major employers include the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, UPMC Pinnacle, and Hershey Company.

Living in the capital of Pennsylvania is the right choice for many reasons. One prime reason is the excellent new home options in this area including suburbs like Carlisle, Mechanicsburg, and Annville. Take a look at your new home options in the Harrisburg area.

9. Williamsport

• Housing cost to income ratio: 3.87
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.73%
• Violent crime index: 25.0
• Nonviolent crime index: 46.8
• Cost of living index: 76.1

Nestled in Lycoming County, Williamsport is a small town of approximately 30,000. This growing community is full of baseball fans as it is known as the  home of the Little League World Series. This compelling area is family-friendly and poised for outdoor recreation.

There are activities to do in and around town, such as Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland, Kaos Fun Zone, Fly World Trampoline Park, and even a drive-in movie theater. Williamsport has a sizeable art scene for a city of its size; the Community Arts Center and Community Theater League are popular programs that offer performance opportunities. 

The city is renowned for its natural beauty. The Susquehanna River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and riverside walks. Nearby, the Pine Creek Gorge, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, is a must-visit for hiking and wildlife viewing. The area boasts parks and green spaces. Brandon Park and Susquehanna State Park are popular for their walking trails and picnic areas. Little Pine State Park, a short drive away, offers camping, hiking, and water activities.

Williamsport hosts various community events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, street fairs, and seasonal festivals. The Community Arts Center and the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra provide vibrant cultural experiences. The Little League Museum celebrates the history of Little League baseball, which originated in Williamsport. Williamsport hosts the annual Little League World Series, drawing visitors globally. Other festivals like the Billtown Blues Festival and the Williamsport Growers Market celebrate local music and agriculture.

Williamsport Area School District serves the area with strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. There are also private schooling options, including St. John Neumann Regional Academy, which offers a faith-based education. UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport and Williamsport Regional Medical Center have professional staff to deliver comprehensive medical services.

The economy in Williamsport is diverse, with healthcare, manufacturing, and education being significant sectors. Major players include UPMC, Pennsylvania College of Technology, and Lycoming Engines. An interesting fact about Williamsport is it is historically known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” due to its booming lumber industry in the 19th century. The city’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved Victorian architecture, especially Millionaire’s Row, where lumber barons once lived.

A new home in Williamsport would be a great investment in your family and future. For those looking to purchase a new home, Williamsport will be an ideal choice.

10. Allentown-Bethlehem

• Housing cost to income ratio: 4.11
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.68%
• Violent crime index: 26.6
• Nonviolent crime index: 43.6
• Cost of living index: 88.8

Enjoy life on your terms in eastern Pennsylvania. The Allentown-Bethlehem area is sure to provide a great backdrop for a new home. These neighboring cities have over 200,000 residents combined. Allentown is the larger of the two. There is a historical charm that will appeal to potential homebuyers. Both cities occupy prime locations; they are a short drive from cities like New York, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Washington, DC. Bethlehem is known as the “Christmas City USA” for its historic and elaborate Christmas celebrations. The area played a crucial role in the American industrial revolution with Bethlehem Steel, once the second-largest steel producer in the United States.

In Allentown, the charm has combined with modern attractions including the Allentown Art Museum and the Da Vinci Science Center. A-Town is also known for many other things like the Lehigh Valley IronPigs baseball team. Its history includes the Liberty Bell as it was hidden here during the British occupation of Philadelphia. Bethlehem is home to two universities and has its share of activities and adventures.

There are jobs available, especially in the manufacturing sector, as Allentown is the headquarters for companies such as Air Products, PPL, and Norfolk Southern Railway. The diverse economy is also represented by a considerable influence in education and healthcare. The Lehigh Valley Health Network and St. Luke’s University Health Network are also big players. The city is also family-friendly, as there are plenty of parks and walking paths. From education to healthcare, this area is ready to serve you. Lehigh Valley Hospital and St. Luke’s University Hospital, both offer advanced medical care.

Lehigh University is a private research university poised on making future makers. If you are leaning towards a private liberal arts university, look at Moravian College. These two spots along with the excellent public schools make this a smart choice for families. Allentown School District and Bethlehem Area School District are known for their comprehensive educational programs or choose private schools like Moravian Academy and Swain School for your children’s needs.

There is no shortage of outdoor activities. The Lehigh Valley is known for its picturesque landscapes, ideal for hiking, biking, and nature walks. The Lehigh River offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Community events include Musikfest, a large free music festival in Bethlehem, and the Allentown Fair, highlighting local agriculture, food, and entertainment.

Nearby parks like the Lehigh Parkway in Allentown and the Monocacy Park in Bethlehem provide scenic trails and picnic spots. Nockamixon State Park, a short drive away, offers boating, fishing, and camping facilities. If it is important to bring Fido along for your activities, then Monocacy Dog Park is a great spot in Bethlehem.

Museums and cultural attractions will keep you intrigued. Spend time checking out the region’s past at the National Museum of Industrial History in Bethlehem. The SteelStacks in Bethlehem is a cultural center built on the site of the former Bethlehem Steel plant, giving the perfect setting for festivals, music, and art.

With Allentown and Bethlehem rounding out our list, your choice of new home locale in Pennsylvania will be a difficult one as the options are truly welcoming. Discover your perfect location and amenity-rich neighborhood. You aren’t limited to just the big cities, excellent new home options can be found in Easton, Coopersburg, and Nazareth.