Considering a move to the Keystone State? Pennsylvania offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern living that attracts people from all walks of life. As a moving company, we’ve helped countless families and individuals settle into their new Pennsylvania homes. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled an updated list of pros and cons for living in Pennsylvania in 2024.
Pros Of Living in Pennsylvania
Strong Job Market
One of the most important aspects when it comes to moving and picking your next destination is the job market. Don’t Worry! Pennsylvania’s diverse economy thrives in healthcare, education, technology, and manufacturing.
Major cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh offer endless job opportunities across various industries, making it easy for newcomers to find their fit. As the economy continues to grow, Pennsylvania presents a promising destination for young professionals and seniors alike.
Related: Everything You Need To Know About Living in Pittsburgh
Affordable Housing Options
Housing is a major factor when deciding where to live. Even a high income can be quickly eroded by exorbitant housing costs. One of the advantages of living in Pennsylvania is its more affordable housing market compared to neighboring states like New York and New Jersey. This is particularly evident in smaller cities and rural areas.
We searched the home values in PA and came up to this finding from Zillow homes.
“Home values in Pennsylvania are on the rise. The typical home value stands at $272,477, reflecting a 5.3% increase over the past year. This indicates a growing housing market in the state. ” Zillow Homes
While the statewide average home value provides a general overview, a more detailed analysis at the city or neighborhood level is necessary to accurately assess housing affordability in Pennsylvania. Nevertheless, the overall trend suggests that Pennsylvania still offers a range of housing options to suit different budgets.
Related: Best Neighborhoods In Pittsburgh
Pennsylvanians Enjoy 4 Distinct Seasons
Pennsylvania is known for having four clear seasons, each offering something special. In spring, flowers bloom, while autumn brings bright, colorful leaves. Throughout the year, people can enjoy different outdoor activities and events. Winter brings snow, perfect for cozying up or playing in, and summer offers warm, sunny days for fun and relaxation.
Unlike some states where it’s hot most of the year or others where it’s almost always cold, Pennsylvania’s four seasons give a nice balance. In states like Arizona with constant heat, it can be challenging to enjoy outdoor activities without overheating, and in colder states like Alaska, it might be hard to escape the chill. But in Pennsylvania, you get a little bit of everything, from warm summers to snowy winters, making it easier to enjoy a wide variety of activities all year round.
Rich History & Cultural Scene
The state boasts 169 national historic landmarks, ranking third in the country for the highest concentration. This means you’re surrounded by fascinating American history, from landmarks like the Liberty Bell to sites related to the Revolutionary War, abolitionism, and the Civil War.
In addition to its rich history, Pennsylvania has a mix of different cultures that makes everyday life interesting. The state has the largest Amish community in the country, bringing together both country and city ways of life. This mix of cultures is also seen in the state’s tasty food.
Good Food
Did we just say good food?
Pennsylvania is a food lover’s dream! You’ll find all sorts of delicious dishes here, from classic American comfort food to exciting international flavors. Enjoy famous Philly cheesesteaks, sweet Amish whoopie pies, or Pittsburgh’s one-of-a-kind Primanti Brothers sandwiches.
If you’re moving to Pittsburgh, be sure to try Fig & Ash or Morcilla for amazing meals. And if you’re headed to West Chester, check out Limoncello Ristorante or Four Dogs Tavern for delicious eats.
Excellent Education System
Pennsylvania’s education system is recognized as one of the best in the country, contributing to the state being ranked as the 5th ‘most educated’ state in the U.S. In a recent study, Pennsylvania ranked ninth overall, placing it among the top 10 school systems nationwide.
Moreover, Pennsylvania ranks fourth in the nation for the percentage of full-time college students, reflecting the strong emphasis on higher education. The state is home to prestigious universities like Penn State and the University of Pennsylvania, both of which attract students from across the country and around the world.
Outdoor Life Is Amazing
No list of the best things about living in Pennsylvania would be complete without mentioning the amazing outdoor recreation. The state offers stunning landscapes, from the impressive Appalachian Mountains to beautiful forests and lakes.
We love that nature is always just a short drive away. Pennsylvania has endless hiking trails, gorgeous fall colors, and rivers that are hard to resist. It’s easy to stay active here because you’re surrounded by incredible natural beauty.
Cons Of Living in Pennsylvania
Poverty On The Rise
One surprising fact about living in Pennsylvania is that Philadelphia has the highest rate of residents living below the poverty line among major U.S. cities.
This situation is truly troubling. You can see the effects of poverty in various ways, such as struggling schools, failing infrastructure, littered streets, and high crime rates. The impact of poverty is visible in everyday life in Philadelphia. This poverty problem is more noticeable in larger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
Safety Remains A Concern In Bigger Cities
Safety remains a concern in larger cities, with places like Philadelphia reporting very high crime rates. However, Pennsylvania as a whole has a lower-than-average property crime rate, thanks to its lower concentration of urban poverty and a more spread-out population across the state’s 46,054 square miles.
Not So Great Infrastructure
Some areas of Pennsylvania, particularly in older cities, face infrastructure issues. Roads and bridges in certain regions may need updating, which can affect daily commutes.
Humid Summers
While the four seasons are a pro, Pennsylvania’s weather can be unpredictable. Summers, in particular, can be quite humid, which may be challenging for those coming from drier climates. This humidity can make the heat feel more intense and uncomfortable.
Higher Property Taxes
Depending on the county, property taxes in Pennsylvania can be higher than the national average. This is something to consider when budgeting for a move.
Urban-Rural Divide
There’s a noticeable cultural and economic divide between urban and rural areas in Pennsylvania. This can affect access to certain amenities and services depending on where you choose to live, potentially impacting your lifestyle and opportunities.
Traffic in Major Cities
Like many populous states, Pennsylvania’s major cities, especially Philadelphia, can experience significant traffic congestion during peak hours. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are some of the most traffic-congested cities in the world, making it frustrating to get around during rush hour. As the state’s population continues to grow, the traffic problem gets worse. If you’re concerned about city traffic, you might want to think about living in smaller towns or suburbs around these metro cities..
Passionate (and Sometimes Rowdy) Sports Fans
Philadelphia is renowned for its fervent sports fandom. Fans of the Eagles, Flyers, Phillies, and 76ers are legendary for their unwavering loyalty and enthusiasm. While this passion can be infectious, it’s also true that the city’s sports obsession can be overwhelming for newcomers.
Expect loud, colorful game-day experiences and a deep-seated connection between the teams and the city’s identity. However, beneath the boisterous exterior lies a community united by shared experiences and a desire to see their city succeed.
No Oceanfront
While Pennsylvania offers stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, it lacks the oceanfront charm of coastal states. If you crave sandy shores and salty breezes, you’ll need to travel to neighboring states like New Jersey for your beach fix.
Fun Fact: Pennsylvania boasts a surprisingly high skunk population! With an average of one skunk per 10 acres of ideal habitat, these striped critters are quite common neighbors. Just remember, while they might be cute, their defense mechanism can be quite… pungent!
Is Pennsylvania Right For You?
Pennsylvania offers a special living experience with its mix of history, beautiful nature, and modern conveniences. While there are some challenges, many people feel that the benefits outweigh the downsides. The state’s unique character, from its dedicated sports fans to its special food, makes it a great place to live for many.
If you’re thinking about moving to Pennsylvania in 2024, consider how these factors fit with your personal needs and preferences. Every state has its own pros and cons, so what’s most important is finding a place that suits your lifestyle and goals.
If relocation is what bothers you the most – worry not! All Ways Moving & Storage has been the go to moving company for many Pennsylvanians since 1913!
We have 2 locations, 1 in Washington, PA and another location in Pittsburgh, PA