If you’re planning on moving to Pennsylvania, add these cities to your list.
Pennsylvania is a wonderfully diverse state, home to history, natural splendor, and thriving industry. Known as the Keystone State, Pennsylvania has long been shaped by its central role in U.S. history, industry, and policy. The steel and coal industries have been particularly important to the state’s economy and culture, and manufacturing remains foundational to its identity.
Pennsylvania has six distinct geographic regions, including plains, mountains, valleys, and plateaus, each with their own unique cultures and histories. The state is fairly mild and sees between 34 and 52 inches of precipitation annually. Snow is common every winter, though a majority falls near Lake Erie and in the Appalachian Mountains. Nor’easters, thunderstorms, and tropical storms can cause flooding near rivers.
In large part because of their affordability, many major cities in Pennsylvania have seen a recent surge in house prices and population growth, as people spring to buy homes they can afford. Interest has only grown as national housing costs continue to rise, leading to a statewide shortage of homes. This, along with a concerted effort to modernize the state’s economy, has turned some former Rust Belt cities, like Pittsburgh, into lively hubs of community and innovation. But, which cities are the best?
In this Redfin article, we’ve uncovered the best places to live in Pennsylvania, ranking them on qualities such as affordability, navigability, and number of amenities. You can find more information about our methodology here or at the bottom of the article.
1. Pittsburgh, PA
Population:
303,255
Median Sale Price:
$245,000
Median Rent Price:
$1,599
Average Commute Time:
24.2 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Forget what you’ve heard: Pittsburgh, the iconic “Steel City,” has completely transformed over the past few decades. What was once a city stuck in a post-industrial past has transformed into a thriving center of technology, medicine, and innovation, all while holding on to its blue-collar spirit. And it’s not done growing, with a recently approved $600 million plan to revitalize its downtown underway.
Living in Pittsburgh is a treat. History, natural splendor, and trendy shops collide with rusty remnants of the city’s past, creating a city that feels alive. Famous attractions like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, the Strip District’s Markets, and Duquesne Incline (one of the last inclines in the country) are must-sees. Green space is abundant and fun to explore, like at Point State Park or the Three Rivers Heritage Trail. You can get around easily by light rail.
Pittsburgh’s hilly terrain is defined by three rivers – the Monongahela, Allegheny, and Ohio – creating dramatic views and unique neighborhoods connected by a whopping 446 bridges. The Three Sisters Bridges are probably the most famous, all named after local legends. One of the three, the Roberto Clemente Bridge, becomes a pedestrian-only walkway on Pirates (MLB) game days. Unsurprisingly, sports are integral to locals. Along with the Pirates, The Steelers (NFL), Penguins (NHL), and Pitt Panthers draw tens of thousands to every game.
A small, affordable, walkable city with the amenities of a major metropolis, plus plenty of character, make Pittsburgh the best place to live in Pennsylvania.
Pittsburgh homes for sale | PIttsburgh houses for rent | Pittsburgh apartments for rent
2. Philadelphia, PA
Population:
1.55 million
Median Sale Price:
$250,000
Median Rent Price:
$1,901
Average Commute Time:
33.4 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
5.4%
As Pennsylvania’s largest city and one of the nation’s most historic, Philadelphia combines East Coast energy with a down-to-earth vibe. Founded in 1682, the city is especially famous for its many firsts: the first library, hospital, university, art museum, zoo, and more. Other landmarks include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Philadelphia Museum of Art. While it is old, it is always evolving and remains one of the nation’s premier cities.
You’ll never tire of exploring Philly. You can easily see the old and densely packed buildings of Rittenhouse Square and peruse hip shops in Fishtown in an hour. If you have more time, watch the city’s streets and row houses give way to modern skyscrapers in Center City and Fairmount, where you’ll find museums, parks, and the expansive Schuylkill River Trail – perfect for biking and running. Philadelphia is actually quite compact, with dozens of neighborhoods that each have a unique vibe. Getting around is made easy via robust subway and bus systems (SEPTA).
Philadelphia’s culture sets it apart from most other cities. The arts are popular, headlined by the ancient Walnut Street Theatre and plenty of arts schools, and music is woven into the city’s bones. Immigrants have played an essential role in the arts since the city’s founding.
Of course, you can’t miss the food. Cheesesteaks reign supreme – try Pat’s, Geno’s, or one of the countless neighborhood spots – but they’re only the beginning. Options also include roast pork sandwiches, soft pretzels, water ice, and a growing roster of international eateries, craft breweries, and renowned BYOB restaurants.
Philadelphia homes for sale | Philadelphia houses for rent | Philadelphia apartments for rent
3. Erie, PA
Population:
92,957
Median Sale Price:
$127,500
Median Rent Price:
$1,100
Average Commute Time:
18 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
One of the snowiest cities in the country, Erie is Pennsylvania’s lakeside hub. It was nicknamed “Gem City” for its pristine natural harbor, which still boasts a thriving maritime industry. Residents love Erie’s mid-sized feel; not too big to create traffic or feel claustrophobic, but with plenty of amenities throughout its historic streets.
Pesque Isle State Park is a must-see, while the Erie Maritime Museum details the region’s intertwined history with the lake. Lake shipping, metalworking, and manufacturing were essential industries that helped grow Erie into the city it is today. Its skyline still reflects its industrial past but also looks forward, like the 120-year old Mercantile Building turning into a slick office space.
There are a few downsides, though. Winters can be long and snowy, with especially heavy snow during lake-effect storms. Houses also run on the older side, and nightlife is limited and will require a car to get to. On the bright side, trade jobs are abundant, there are plenty of affordable sporting events, and the city continues to grow. Catch the Erie Otters play Minor League Hockey at the Erie Insurance Arena, or watch the Erie Seawolves play Minor League ball.
Erie homes for sale | Erie houses for rent | Erie apartments for rent
4. Scranton, PA
Population:
75,805
Median Sale Price:
$195,000
Median Rent Price:
$1,480
Average Commute Time:
20 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
A 19th-century industrial mecca, Scranton today is better known for its close-knit community, affordability, and old-town feel. The promise of jobs drew thousands of immigrants to the area to mine anthracite coal and iron and work on railroads and in textile mills – a hard-working attitude that is celebrated today. You can learn more about the region’s mining history at the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum or the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.
Scranton is a small city that punches above its weight. Boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and shops fill the compact downtown core, usually in brick or stone buildings. Cracked roads and run-down buildings are a fairly common sight, but the city is always under improvement.
Nature-wise, Scranton is top-notch. Nay Aug Park features waterfalls, hiking trails, and a treehouse, while McDade Park has trails, an arboretum, and a pool. You’re also nestled between mountains on either side, providing great views and hiking spots year-round. Montage Mountain Resorts even has skiing in the winter.
If you have to choose one thing to do, though, it should be to take the Pizza Trail. Scranton has exceptional pizza of all styles, highlighted by the famous “Old Forge Pizza” style, which is served in cuts rather than slices. Alfredo’s, Mama Mia’s, and Sabellini’s are top places to experience the best pizza in town, but locals will have a favorite spot.
Scranton homes for sale | Scranton houses for rent | Scranton apartments for rent
5. Allentown, PA
Population:
124,880
Median Sale Price:
$230,000
Median Rent Price:
$1,484
Average Commute Time:
23.2 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
6.4%
Allentown was founded in 1762 and hasn’t skipped a beat since. It’s especially famous for its role in early American history, which you can learn about at the Liberty Bell Museum, but has plenty more to brag about, too. The outdoors are always close by in the Blue Mountains, which offers ski resorts and plenty of trails. You can also cheer on the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs at Coca-Cola Park, or take a quick jaunt to Philadelphia and NYC for big-city fun. Museums and historical landmarks are other pros, like the famous Zion’s United Church of Christ.
Throughout town, you’ll find everything from century-old industrial buildings and historic houses, to modern bars and restaurants. Allentown shows its age in some abandoned warehouses and old buildings, but a few have turned into artists’ lofts and trendy shops. In fact, the city has undergone a major revamp over the past decade, and its downtown continues to grow. But if chains and mall shopping are more your style, head north on MacArthur Road for everything you could want.
Allentown is the third-biggest city in Pennsylvania and the largest of three interconnected cities in the Lehigh Valley, the other two being Bethlehem and Easton. The region is full of natural beauty and was pivotal in developing America’s early industry, especially once the Lehigh Canal was built in 1829, which you can tour today. The region sees cold winters and warm, humid summers.
Allentown homes for sale | Allentown houses for rent | Allentown apartments for rent
6. Harrisburg, PA
Population:
50,012
Median Sale Price:
$190,000
Median Rent Price:
$1,207
Average Commute Time:
19.2 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
The state capital, Harrisburg is a quaint and historic city in the heart of Pennsylvania. It has an appealing mix of small-town charm and modern amenities, all at an affordable price. Colleges, historic theaters, modern skyscrapers, and the dazzling Capitol Building line the historic downtown’s narrow streets, before opening up to tree-lined boulevards with colonial-style houses. It’s not hard to believe that it’s one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania.
The outdoors are easy to reach by foot and satisfying to explore. Running and cycling along Riverfront Park and the ancient Susquehanna River is a treat. You can even circle the entire city (nearly 21 miles) via the Capital Area Greenbelt. While you’re out, you’ll likely stumble upon a festival or event or see one happening at nearby City Island – a popular 63 acre park. The Kipona Festival, celebrating Native peoples, is a must-see that happens around Labor Day.
Getting around is easy. Amusement-filled Hershey is 20 minutes away, and it’s just a couple of hours along the PA Turnpike to reach Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Trains run all the way to New York, too, and buses take you to important stops in the city and vicinity.
Harrisburg homes for sale | Harrisburg houses for rent | Harrisburg apartments for rent
7. Reading, PA
Population:
94,903
Median Sale Price:
$205,000
Median Rent Price:
$1,038
Average Commute Time:
24.3 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
6.9%
Reading (pronounced “Redding”) is an icon of American industry in the Pennsylvania heartland. Downtown, rows of old brick buildings house modern conveniences, and commemorative plaques celebrate centuries of industrial history. A very low cost of living, easy pace of life, and gorgeous scenery are top draws.
As a quintessential Rust Belt city, Reading’s economy has usually been in a constant state of transition. It was long at the epicenter of major development, like the Schuylkill and Union Canals in the 1800s, and even housed essential iron production during the Revolutionary War. But economic decline typically followed as society evolved and needs shifted. Manufacturing is alive and well today, but there is evidence of disrepair throughout the region.
Still, the city houses a huge number of industrial-era landmarks. You can visit the real-life Reading Railroad from Monopoly, the 19th-century Allegheny Aqueduct, and dozens of old hosiery plants, of which there were once 77.
People from all over the world have been drawn to Reading’s promise of work over the centuries, with a large Pennsylvania Dutch population still prominent. As such, a variety of restaurants and shops dot the city’s grid, which bleeds into neighboring suburbs Wyomissing, Laureldale, and Mt. Penn.
Reading homes for sale | Reading houses for rent | Reading apartments for rent
8. Lancaster, PA
Population:
57,153
Median Sale Price:
$242,500
Median Rent Price:
$1,258
Average Commute Time:
22.8 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
4.3%
Lancaster, is the eight-best place to live in Pennsylvania. Offering a great balance of natural beauty and a bustling downtown, Lancaster has a unique history. The city has played host to societal changes for centuries, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, when it gained a major railroad and built the Conestoga Steam Mills. Farming and industry grew ever popular and remain cornerstones of Lancaster today, celebrated at events year-round.
Within just a few miles, you can visit picturesque farms, manicured suburbs, and trendy eateries, many of which are walkable. Local farmers and crafters sell their bounties three days per week at the 18th-century Lancaster Central Market, housed in an iconic brick building downtown. Large parks, Victorian-era buildings, and an old-world feel add charm and livability.
Farmland and tree groves define the landscape almost immediately after leaving the city. East of Lancaster are major Amish and Mennonite communities, with some offering tours of their farms. Travel two hours further east or south and you’ll end up in Philadelphia and Baltimore – perfect for a day trip.
Important to note: the miles of farmland nearby produce a variety of unpleasant smells, which often waft into the city. Kellogg’s and Mars Chocolate have factories to the north that can add a sweet twist into the aroma, too. You’ll get used to the smells after a while, but it may take time to adjust. Air quality can also be an issue around processing plants outside the city.
Lancaster homes for sale | Lancaster houses for rent | Lancaster apartments for rent
9. Bethlehem, PA
Population:
78,300
Median Sale Price:
$274,900
Median Rent Price:
$1,775
Average Commute Time:
23.3 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
3.3%
Just east of Allentown in the beautiful Lehigh Valley, Bethlehem packs a lot into its centuries-old bones. The city was founded in 1741 by Moravian settlers, was a steel-production powerhouse, and today is a quaint city with a youthful energy. It is both cosmopolitan and intimate, providing quiet respites and a downtown with all the digs. An affordable cost of living doesn’t hurt, either.
The region’s Moravian history makes Bethlehem a fairly popular tourist destination. One of four Moravian Church Settlements, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is located in town, as is the Historic Moravian Bethlehem National Historic Landmark District, which includes a museum. Religion played a major role in Moravian life, and you can still find places of worship throughout the city. German festivals like Oktoberfest, Musikfest, and the cozy Christkindlmarkt are popular annual traditions.
Perhaps Bethlehem’s best quality is its small but lively downtown; it has everything you need in a walkable layout. The historic Hotel Bethlehem, on the site of the city’s first house, is a must-see and top choice among visitors. Happy hour hotspots, trendy shops, and Victorian townhomes line the historic streets, and there are even rooftop bars and a speakeasy. Plus, you’re minutes from Sand Island Park and the 140-mile long D&L Trail. Nightlife is a bit lacking compared to larger cities, though.
Bethlehem homes for sale | Bethlehem houses for rent | Bethlehem apartments for rent
10. Levittown, PA
Population:
50,804
Median Sale Price:
$400,000
Median Rent Price:
$2,100
Average Commute Time:
28.3 minutes
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Sitting between Trenton and Philadelphia, Levittown rounds out our list of the best places to live in Pennsylvania. Levittown boasts a low cost of living, plenty of amenities, and pockets of green space spread throughout. The city is split between three townships: Bristol, Falls, and Middletown. Importantly, each have their own tax codes to be aware of, with Middletown having an Earned Income Tax.
Levittown, PA is the second of many planned communities built by Levitt & Sons in the years following World War II. They quickly became the typified American suburb, with a lawn and white picket fence. And notably, they were intentionally exclusionary to non-white people.
Homes in these communities were built in a way akin to an assembly line, manufactured in 26 steps over a day or two. Levittown, PA was built over the course of six years and contains slightly more than 17,300 homes, split between six different models. The houses were fairly bare bones by today’s standards, lacking central air and basements. Some have been remodeled since, but most are original.
Levittown borders the Delaware River to the south and isn‘t far from the Atlantic Coast, meaning outdoor recreation is abundant. Some of the most popular things to do nearby include visiting the Bristol Wharf, exploring the Silver Lake Nature Center, or learning about farming at Snipes Farm & Education Center.
Levittown homes for sale | Levittown houses for rent | Levittown apartments for rent
Methodology
Redfin’s Best Places to Live rankings are meant to help home searchers make an informed decision when choosing where to live. To attempt to measure the overall quality of a metro area, each ranking takes into account several key factors, including access to healthcare, open outdoor space, navigability, housing trends, employment statistics, income, and travel time to work. Only metros with a population of 50,000 or greater were considered for our Pennsylvania list. More information about our methodology can be found here.
Data valid January 2025. This article is for informational and educational purposes only.
