12 Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania [2024]

If you're thinking about making the move to the Keystone State, Pennsylvania, known for its fascinating industrial history and deliciously diverse dining scene, you're in for quite the adventure. But with so many awesome locations to choose from, you might find yourself in a bit of a pickle, trying to figure out which one's the best fit for you.

To give you a hand in kickstarting your Pennsylvania apartment hunt, the first step is to narrow down your choices and pick your dream city. That's exactly why we've put together this guide – to help you get the lowdown on the coolest places to live in Pennsylvania and find your perfect match.

Plus, to make sure you've got all the insider info you need, we've got insights from YouTube's Across The Globe. So, let's jump right in and find your next pad in Pennsylvania!

Median apartment prices come from our renter reports (see Philadelphia as an example). Transportation scores come from WalkScore, and other census data comes from the official census website.

Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania

1. Philadelphia

• Median 1 Bedroom Rent: $1,271
• Median 2 Bedroom Rent: $1,470
• Median Home Price: $215,500
• Population: 1,567,258
• Median Household Income: $57,537
• Walk Score: 75
• Transit Score: 67
• Bike Score: 67

Philadelphia, often referred to as Philly, is the most populated city within Pennsylvania and the sixth-most populated country. It is the second most populated city in the Northeast, falling behind New York City. Philadelphia was founded in 1682 by the English Quaker William Penn, making it one of the oldest municipalities in the country. Historically, Philadelphia played a significant role in the American Revolution as a meeting ground for the Founding Fathers.

Explore the city and check out the historic Liberty Bell, pose with the Rocky Statue for a photo opp, and, of course, enjoy an authentic Philly cheesesteak while living in the city.

There are 150 distinct neighborhoods within Philadelphia, all with unique features. Additionally, there are around 100 suburbs here as well. Some of the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia are Old City, University City, Chestnut Hill, Bella Vista, and Center City.

People from across the United States started migrating towards Bridgeport because it is an affordable city with a very high quality of life. In the first quarter of 2021, the most significant migration to Philadelphia came from New York, New York, making up an astonishing 22.1% of the moves into the city. Behind New York was Washington, DC, at 5.2%, and Allentown, Pennsylvania, at 4.1%.

So, if you're wondering how to find an apartment in Philadelphia, it's time to start with some research. There are a few things to know before moving to Philadelphia. First, take a look at the cost of living in Philadelphia and get a better idea of the average rent and rent price trends. Finally, check out the thousands of apartments available for rent now in Philadelphia.

2. Pittsburgh

• Median 1 Bedroom Rent: $1,112
• Median 2 Bedroom Rent: $1,354
• Median Home Price: $171,800
• Population: 302,898
• Median Household Income: $60,187
• Walk Score: 62
• Transit Score: 55
• Bike Score: 55

Located in the southwest portion of Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh is found at the confluence of the Monongahela River and Allegheny River, where the Ohio River is formed. In terms of population, Pittsburgh falls second to Philadelphia in the state of Pennsylvania. The city has two nicknames, the Steel City, after the more than 300 steel-related businesses, and the City of Bridges, for its 446 bridges.

Bridges aren't the only notable elements of infrastructure found in this city. Anyone living in Pittsburgh is familiar with the countless stairs, as the city boasts a staggering 712 sets of public steps, more than any other hilly city in the country, like Cincinnati or San Francisco. Every early October, the city hosts its annual StepTrek, a noncompetitive walk through the South Side Slopes neighborhood.

For sports fans, Pittsburgh is home to three major professional sports teams. The Pirates play in the MLB, the Steelers in the NFL, and the Penguins in the NHL. Additionally, the University of Pittsburgh Panthers plays in the highest level of collegiate athletics in the country, a D1 Power Five conference.

Throughout the east coast, people have begun increasingly moving to Pittsburgh. In the first quarter of 2021, the most significant migrations to Pittsburgh came from New York, New York, making up the most considerable portion at 7.1% of the moves into the city. Behind New York is Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at 6.4%, and Washington, DC, at 4.1%.

If you think you might want to call Pittsburgh home, check out the city's average rent and rent price trends and the hundreds of apartments available for rent now in Pittsburgh.

3. Allentown

• Median 1 Bedroom Rent: $1,112
• Median 2 Bedroom Rent: $1,323
• Median Home Price: $171,800
• Population: 125,094
• Median Household Income: $52,449
• Walk Score: 67
• Transit Score: 37
• Bike Score: 42

On the Lehigh River in Allentown, the third-most populated city in Pennsylvania. Historically, Allentown was a wilderness area used by the local Native Americans for hunting grouse, deer, other game, and fishing trout. Today, Allentown is known for its rich Pennsylvania Dutch history, IronPigs baseball team, and award-winning park system.

The industrialist Harry Clay Trexler had notable roots in the park system of Allentown today. Once inspired by the City Beautiful movement of the early 20th century, Trexler worked to turn a community trash pit into the 6.59-acre West Park. Other notable parks in Allentown include Cedar Beach Park, Allentown Rose Gardens, and Cedar Creek Park.

If you're looking to explore the historical side of Allentown, stop by America on Wheels, offering an excellent history of the transportation industry. The Lehigh Valley Heritage Center provides a comprehensive look into the people and industries of Lehigh County. Lastly, the Mack Trucks Historical Museum showcases the history of Mack Trucks, which is no longer in business.

There is a long history of professional baseball in Allentown, dating as far back as 1884. The city today is best known for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs and the Philadelphia Phillies'. The 8,100-seat Coca-Cola Park is one of the newest AAA parks in the country found on the east side of Allentown.

Check out the hundreds of apartments available for rent now in Allentown.

4. Erie

• Average 1 Bedroom Rent: $638
• Average 2 Bedroom Rent: $863
• Median Home Price: $101,500
• Population: 93,511
• Median Household Income: $43,135
• Walk Score: 60
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: 52

The city located on the south shore of Lake Erie is appropriately named Erie. This city is the fourth-most populated city in Pennsylvania and has been nicknamed the Flagship City. Much of the development in Erie came from the manufacturing industry, which remains prominent in the local economy. Other sectors are now expanding in Erie, including higher education, technology, and healthcare.

The most visited state park in all of Pennsylvania is Erie’s Presque Isle State Park. The Presque Isle peninsula enters Lake Erie at this park, where individuals and families of all ages can come and enjoy a plethora of recreational activities. The only surf beaches found in the entire state are here at Presque Isle State Park.

Other exciting things to check out in Erie include the Erie Maritime Museum, which is found along the waterfront and focuses primarily on the War of 1812. However, it covers the city's complete maritime history. For families with children, the Scallywags Pirate Adventures offers a 90-minute themed cruise full of adventure. Best of all, there are adult booze cruises provided by the same company throughout the season.

A hidden gem of Lake Erie is its premier grape growing and wine production. Just east of downtown Erie, you’ll find many excellent wineries. Some of the favorites include Presque Isle Wine Cellars at the Colony, 6 Mile Cellars, Inc., and Heritage Wine Cellars.

Check out the apartments available for rent now in Erie.

5. Reading

• Starting 1 Bedroom Rent: $775
• Starting 2 Bedroom Rent: $980
• Median Home Price: $96,900
• Population: 94,858
• Median Household Income: $42,852
• Walk Score: 72
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: 47

In the southeastern region of Pennsylvania, you will find Reading, strategically located along a massive transportation route connecting the state. Reading comes from the historic Reading Railroad, which transported coal from Pennsylvania throughout the eastern United States. Today, Reading has been nicknamed the Pretzel City for the number of different pretzel bakeries found here, including Tom Sturgis, Dieffenbach, and Bachman.

Reading is broken into 23 unique neighborhoods, with some of the most populated being Hampden Heights, East Reading, Eastside, Penn's Commons, and College Heights.

Multiple sports franchises call Reading home, many of which have a long history of creating athletes at the highest levels of their appropriate sports. The minor league affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies is the Reading Fightin Phils, who play at FirstEnergy Stadium. Additionally, two of the top amateur soccer teams in the nation call Reading home, including the Reading United AC and the USL League Two.

For those who are interested in the artistic culture of Reading, the Reading Symphony Orchestra is noteworthy. The Orchestra has multiple education projects, including the Reading Choral Society, the Reading Symphony Youth Orchestra, and the Opus One: Berks Chamber Choir.

Other exciting things to check out in Reading include the Pagoda, the Reading Public Museum, and the Fairgrounds Farmers Market. The local farmers' market is a great place to pick up fresh meats, fruits, vegetables, and desserts.

Check out the apartments available for rent now in Reading.

6. Harrisburg

• Average 1 Bedroom Rent: $1,111
• Average 2 Bedroom Rent: $1,271
• Median Home Price: $112,100
• Population: 50,183
• Median Household Income: $46,664
• Walk Score: 68
• Transit Score: 39
• Bike Score: 57

Harrisburg, the state capital, is found on the east bank of the Susquehanna River in Dauphin County. The city is situated with Philadelphia just over 100 miles to the southeast and Allentown just over 80 miles to the northeast.

Not surprisingly, the state capital city played a significant role in many instances throughout American history. Harrisburg played a leading role during the Industrial Revolution, the American Civil War, and even the Westward Migration. Moreover, the city quickly became one of the most industrialized regions in the country following the creation of the Pennsylvania Railroad and the Pennsylvania Canal in the 19th century.

Today, Harrisburg hosts many of the metropolitan area’s annual events and festivals, some of the most noteworthy, including the Great American Outdoor Show, the Pennsylvania Farm Show, and the Pennsylvania Auto Show.

Harrisburg has become such a famous city in Pennsylvania that it has been ranked as the #1 best place to live in the state and the #13 best place to retire, and #61 best place to live in the country according to U.S. News.

Those who aren’t busy with the festivities take advantage of Harrisburg's easily accessible great outdoors. The trails of Riverfront Park, home to the Susquehanna River, are often filled with bikers and runners taking in the picturesque scenery. Hikers of Harrisburg also enjoy several state parks and forests nearby, including the famous Appalachian Trail. Otherwise, mountain biking and camping are other fun outdoor activities.

Check out the hundreds of apartments available for rent now in Harrisburg.

7.Lancaster

• Average 1 Bedroom Rent: $1,438
• Average 2 Bedroom Rent: $1,669
• Median Home Price: $179,500
• Population: 57,453
• Median Household Income: $61,014
• Walk Score: 81
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: 58

Lancaster, nicknamed the Red Rose City, is located in South Central Pennsylvania. Although ranking outside of the top ten most populated cities in the state, Lancaster is one of the oldest inland towns in the country. The city served as the capital of Pennsylvania from 1799 until 1812, when it was moved to Harrisburg.

Manufacturing, public administration, tourism, and healthcare are some of the city’s primary industries today. Additionally, the Lancaster of present-day is known for being a hub of Pennsylvania’s Amish Community.

In 2005, Lancaster created Gallery Row, helping recreate the city's image, especially as an arts destination. Primarily due to Gallery Row, Lancaster’s art community continues to expand and thrive today. Art galleries, vintage shops, and boutiques can all be found along Gallery Row.

Lancaster's Central Market is one of the country's oldest continuously operated farmer's markets. Architecture buffs enjoy the Revival and Romanesque style of the towers of the Central Market, which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition, countless Amish goods that you can't find elsewhere are sold at the Central Market.

All in all, Lancaster provides residents with a perfect blend of commercial and natural spaces. The bustling city shares landlines with manicured suburbs, leading to expansive farms. Having a vehicle of your own in Lancaster means you can enjoy every aspect this unique city offers.

Check out the apartments available for rent now in Lancaster.

8.Scranton

• Starting 1 Bedroom Rent: $700
• Starting 2 Bedroom Rent: $750
• Median Home Price: $125,700
• Population: 75,848
• Median Household Income: $48,776
• Walk Score: 58
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: 38

Scranton is located in northeastern Pennsylvania and is the largest city in Lackawanna County. Scranton boasts close-knit neighborhoods, despite being the sixth-largest city in Pennsylvania. The downtown area of Scranton is vibrant yet enhances the small-town feel of the town.

The city's name dates back to its origins in the 19th century, when the Scranton Family was prominent in establishing the region as a steel and iron capital. Scranton attracted thousands of new immigrants during this time as it became a major industrial city centered around railroads and mining.

Eventually, the city became known as Electric City in 1880 thanks to the Dickson Manufacturing Company, as it introduced electric lights throughout Scranton. In 1886, some of the first electric streetcars in the country ran through the streets of Scranton. The nickname started and has stuck since.

The healthy and vital downtown area of Scranton is popular with young professionals. Additionally, the low cost of living and low crime rates attract families to this area of Pennsylvania. Art galleries, niche boutiques, and trendy restaurants all help provide an energetic downtown atmosphere.

Regardless of who you are, you’ll find something to keep you entertained in Scranton. History buffs love that the Lackawanna Courthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition, social activities like La Festa Italiana, Scranton Jazz Festival, and First Friday Scranton make fun times for all ages.

Check out the apartments available for rent now in Scranton.

9.Penn Wynne

• Starting 1 Bedroom Rent: $895
• Starting 2 Bedroom Rent: $950
• Median Home Price: $465,300
• Population: 6,493
• Median Household Income: $142,005
• Walk Score: 69
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: 54

Although not an actual city, Penn Wynne is a census-designated place (CDP) within Montgomery County that makes our list one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania. Penn Wynne sits about one mile from the Overbrook train station, near route 1. It is the southern section of Wynnewood.

The area was established in the 17th century by Thomas Lloyd, a Welsh Quaker, and was initially called the Green Hill Zone plantation. Fast forward to the early 1900s, and the Green Hill Zone plantation was subdivided and developed into what we know today as Penn Wynne.

With the CDP of Penn Wynne, there are two primary sections. The newer section of Penn Wynne is the northern region, filled with more extensive, single-family homes. The southern area of Penn Wynne is where you’ll find older homes, built from the 1920s to the 1940s, and primarily twins.

Of the Lower Merion Township, Penn Wynne is known for being one of the more affordable sections. Also, Penn Wynne Elementary is top-rated, making this area great for families with younger children.

Penn Wynne is a tight-knit micro area filled with pride, and you’ll often find events that light up the CDP. Many of the streets in Penn Wynne have sidewalks filled with joggers and residents walking their dogs. Get to know your neighbors during snowy day sledding parties or library fundraisers.

Check out the hundreds of apartments available for rent now in Penn Wynne.

10.Hershey

• Starting 1 Bedroom Rent: $1,150
• Starting 2 Bedroom Rent: $1,275
• Median Home Price: $326,900
• Population: 13,858
• Median Household Income: $77,480
• Walk Score: 84
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: 45

Similar to Penn Wynne, Hershey is another CDP and unincorporated city. Located in Derry Township within Dauphin County, Hershey is the home of The Hershey Company. Milton S. Hershey, the maker of Hershey’s Kisses and the Hershey Bar, is responsible for founding the company, the parent company of H.B. Reese Candy Company, which makes Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

In addition to the Hershey Chocolate Factory, Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company owns and operates multiple points of interest in this town. Hershey Gardens, Hersheypark, and Hersheypark Stadium are two of the most popular spots in Hershey.

Not surprisingly, many facets of the town of Hershey pay homage to its roots. From streets with names like Cocoa and Chocolate avenues to street lights shaped like Hershey’s Kisses. There is no denying the impact Hershey has had on the town.

But the town is excellent for anyone, even the sports enthusiasts out there. For example, the American Hockey League’s oldest continuously operating team, the Hershey Bears, call Hershey home. Or, take a quick visit to Grantville, where you can catch a race at the Penn National Race Course.

Otherwise, head to the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad, which operates just a few minutes away from Hershey. Check out miniature golf and go-cart racing at Adventure Sports for more family fun, or go underground at the Indian Echo Caverns.

Check out the apartments available for rent now in Hershey.

11.Mount Lebanon

• Average 1 Bedroom Rent: $1,697
• Median 2 Bedroom Rent: $1,904
• Median Home Price: $350,800
• Population: 33,218
• Median Household Income: $117,881
• Walk Score: 75
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: 74

Mount Lebanon is a popular Pittsburgh suburb. This township has home rule status in Allegheny County and was initially established as a farming community back in 1912. Many people migrated to Mount Lebanon with the arrival of the first streetcar lines, which allowed residents commuting capabilities into downtown Pittsburgh from this area.

In 1942, the Liberty Tubes opened, creating easy access via automobile to and from downtown to Mount Lebanon.

Today, Mount Lebanon is a mature and well-maintained suburb. Great amenities, walkable neighborhoods, beautiful homes, and a strong sense of community are just a few things you can look forward to if you decide to call Mount Lebanon home.

12.Jefferson Hills

• Starting 1 Bedroom Rent: $795
• Starting 2 Bedroom Rent: $800
• Median Home Price: $275,700
• Population: 12,301
• Median Household Income: $108,245
• Walk Score: 4
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: 4

Named after Thomas Jefferson, Jefferson Hills was originally Jefferson Township until it was incorporated as Jefferson Hills in 1828. Primarily residential, Jefferson Hills sits along the border of Allegheny County.

Throughout Jefferson Hills, there are five significant parks, including Tepe Park, Beedle Park, Lobb’s Park, Andrew Reilly Memorial Park, and Gill Hail Park. While you can find countless activities for all ages within the parks, some of the most popular features include playground equipment, basketball courts, and tennis courts, among other sports fields.

The Steel Valley Trail System and the Montour Trail of Jefferson Hills make up two members of the Allegheny Trail Alliance. This alliance is responsible for creating The Great Allegheny Passage, a system of hiking and biking trails spanning 150 miles.

Check out the hundreds of apartments available for rent now in Jefferson Hills.

Rent Prices in the Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania

(* Average Rent) (** Starting Rent)

Ready to Move to Pennsylvania?

No matter what you are looking for in Pennsylvania, whether it is life along the waterfront of Lake Erie in Erie or the hustle of a more metropolitan area like Philadelphia, there's something for everyone. Thankfully, some of the best places to live in Pennsylvania are still reasonably priced.

So, if you are interested in moving to Pennsylvania, now might be a good time to start your research. First, find out more information about the cost of living in Pennsylvania. Next, register with Apartment List today and start checking out the thousands of available apartments to rent in Pennsylvania!

FAQs about the Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania

What is the best part of Pennsylvania to live in?

While Philadelphia and Pittsburgh top our list of best places to live in Pennsylvania, if you're looking for a smaller community, we also recommend looking into Penn Wynne, Mount Lebanon, Hershey, and Scranton.

Is Pennsylvania worth moving to?

If you look at quality of life measures, Pennsylvania is one of the best places to live in the country. It boasts palces like Chester County, where the life expectancy of residents is over 81 years old. And in 2023, CBSNews reported that 7 out of 10 cities named the best places to retire in the country were located in Pennsylvania.