Pennsylvania's Best Cities for Quality Living

By Kirsty
Last Updated 4 Feb 2024
Pennsylvania's Best Cities for Quality Living
Image illustration of relocation to Pennsylvania

Housing market and best cities to live in Pennsylvania: Pittsburgh: Affordable housing, cultural attractions. Philadelphia: Historic neighborhoods, diverse population. Allentown: Growing economy, urban revitalization. Erie: Waterfront properties, family-friendly communities. State College: College town, vibrant community life. Lancaster: Amish culture, charming countryside. Harrisburg: Government jobs, historic architecture. Scranton: Affordable living, natural beauty. York: Affordable homes, manufacturing hub. Bethlehem: Music festivals, historic sites.

Pittsburgh: Affordable housing, cultural attractions.

Pittsburgh stands out as an affordable housing market in Pennsylvania, with a median home price of $208,000 and average rent of $962, making it an attractive option for first-time home buyers and renters. The city also offers a rich cultural scene, including the vibrant Cultural District with numerous galleries, dining establishments, and world-class theaters.

Philadelphia: Historic neighborhoods, diverse population.

Philadelphia's housing market in 2024 is characterized by its historic and diverse neighborhoods, such as those in Center City, Fishtown, and University City. These areas attract a diverse population due to their affordability, robust job market, and recreational offerings. As a result, Philadelphia has become one of the top markets to watch nationally. For a more detailed analysis of this dynamic market, visit the Philadelphia's Real Estate Outlook for 2024 and find out what to expect in the coming year.

Allentown: Growing economy, urban revitalization.

The housing market in Allentown is currently characterized as a seller's market, with a notable median home sold price of $290,329, reflecting a 13.5% increase from the previous year. On average, homes spend about 23 days on the market. The city is experiencing economic growth, largely driven by urban revitalization efforts, especially in the downtown area. These efforts are supported by the Neighborhood Improvement Zone (NIZ) and significant investments from both private and public sectors. For more detailed insights, you can explore the Allentown Real Estate Trends page.

Erie: Waterfront properties, family-friendly communities.

Erie offers affordable waterfront properties with a median home price of around $148,000, and it is known for its family-friendly communities. Featuring attractions like Presque Isle State Park, the Erie Zoo, and Waldameer Park & Water World, Erie is an ideal location for families and those seeking recreational activities. For more information on available properties, you can visit the Lake Erie Waterfront Homes for Sale website.

State College: College town, vibrant community life.

State College, home to Pennsylvania State University, maintains a thriving housing market in 2024, driven by steady demand and a growing local economy. The area offers a diverse range of housing options, with a focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and modern amenities, although affordability remains a challenge. For more insights into the evolving real estate trends, visit the 2024 Housing Market in State College webpage. This challenge is particularly notable in neighborhoods close to the university campus.

Lancaster: Amish culture, charming countryside.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is currently a seller's market with a median home price of $320,508 and an average of 16 days on the market. The area is renowned for its charming countryside and rich Amish culture, offering a unique blend of traditional lifestyle and modern amenities. For more detailed insights, you can explore the real estate trends in this vibrant region.

Harrisburg: Government jobs, historic architecture.

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is currently a seller's market with a median home sold price of $244,228, reflecting an impressive 11% increase from last year. The city, renowned for its historic architecture, also offers employment opportunities, particularly in government jobs, due to its status as the state capital and the presence of various government departments. For more detailed information on real estate trends in this area, visit the Rocket Homes website.

Scranton: Affordable living, natural beauty.

Scranton is recognized as one of the most affordable housing markets in the U.S., with monthly mortgage payments requiring only 22% of the median household income. The city offers a blend of affordable living, rich history, and natural beauty, including the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail and Nay Aug Park, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced quality of life. For more information, visit the Penn's Northeast website.

York: Affordable homes, manufacturing hub.

In York, PA, the housing market is a seller's market, boasting a median home sold price of $239,287 and a median price per square foot of $140, reflecting higher prices and quicker sales. The area is also a manufacturing hub, with recent investments, such as a $2 million grant for the Joseph Machine Company, aimed at creating jobs and expanding the local manufacturing sector. For more detailed insights and trends, the York Real Estate Trends website provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments and statistics in this vibrant housing landscape.

Bethlehem: Music festivals, historic sites.

Bethlehem, PA, boasts a thriving housing market with a typical home value of $332,254, a 7.2% increase over the past year, and a median sale price of $307,083. The city is renowned for its cultural attractions, including the large Musikfest music festival, historic sites like the Historic Moravian District, and a vibrant downtown area with 19th-century architecture and various cultural institutions. For more detailed information about housing trends and values, visit the Zillow website.



Last Updated 4 Feb 2024
Having helped hundreds of families transition smoothly to their new homes, Kirsty understands the intricacies and emotional challenges involved in relocation. Her insider knowledge and practical advice make her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to simplify the moving process.

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