Moving to Pennslyvania
If you love early American history, beautiful landscapes, or chocolate then you will be happy when moving to Pennsylvania. Sure you have to give up some of the perks of NYC but you will be trading it for incredible scenery, rich history, and did we mention…chocolate?! Pennsylvania is a great state to move to because in addition to everything it has to offer, Pennsylvania has a strong job market, excellent schools, and plenty of affordable neighborhoods. Here are just a few of the amazing benefits that await you when moving to Pennsylvania.
Benefits of Moving to Pennsylvania
Incredible History
Pennsylvania is more than just the home of a few historical landmarks. In fact, it is a national treasure. The City of Philadelphia is filled with incredible attractions and sites for any history buff. You can get a glimpse of one of the most iconic symbols of U.S. history, the Liberty Bell, as you stroll along Independence Mall. You can also visit Independence Hall and Congress Hall to see the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence. You can visit the home of Betsy Ross and learn all about our nation’s most famous seamstress or take a tour of the Museum of the American Revolution. The city is chock full of quintessential sights for those who love to learn about our nation’s history.
Strong Job Market
Moving to Pennsylvania means entering one of the strongest job markets in the country. The state is home to more than 20 Fortune 500 Companies including one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies, Amerisource Bergen. The Keystone State annually ranks among the top 10 economies in America with strength in industries including agriculture, finance, insurance, technology, education, and healthcare.
Beautiful Seasons
New Jersey certainly has some beautiful sights but nothing compares to the fall foliage you will see in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania’s location makes it the perfect place to see some of the most stunning fall foliage displays on Earth. The state also enjoys pleasant temperatures in the fall and spring along with warm summers and snowy winters. Residents of the state get a healthy does of all four seasons.
Affordability
One of the best things about Pennsylvania is that the cost of living is relatively low in parts of the state. Residents get to enjoy affordable real estate prices without skimping on the amenities. The five most affordable cities include Bethlehem, Lancaster, Allentown, Harrisburg, and Lebanon. The median home prices in these cities is around $130,000 while the average household income is about $40,000.
Excellent Schools
If you’re looking for a state with top-notch colleges and universities, Pennsylvania is the place to be. The Keystone State is home to some of the most prestigious and highest ranked schools including Carnegie Mellon, Penn State, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Pittsburgh, Temple University and more.
Lots to See and Do
Moving to Pennsylvania makes it possible for residents to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including skiing, mountain climbing, hiking, and even skydiving. The state is also home to 18 national parks and 120 state parks and includes a huge chunk of the Appalachian Trail. Pennsylvania even has its own version of the Grand Canyon, the Pine Creek Gorge, which stretches 50 miles and 1,000 feet deep. In addition to nature, Pennsylvania is a chocolate lover’s paradise. Hershey, Pennsylvania is home to Hershey’s Chocolate World and Hersheypark where visitors can enjoy tours, thrill rides, and chocolate sampling of course! There are also loads of historical attractions, fantastic professional sports teams, and an array of incredible restaurants.
Most Popular Cities in Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
If you are looking for a city rich in history, culture, and some of the best food you will ever taste, then Philly might be the place for you. The “City of Brotherly Love” is packed with some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks and treasures including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, the home of the Declaration of Independence. Philadelphia also offers more affordable urban living options compared to other major cities. It is also packed with great schools and colleges as well as plenty of beautiful and scenic parks. To top things off, Philadelphia is a food lover’s paradise and boasts everything from 4-star restaurants to incredible local eateries each boasting their own unique flavors including the world-famous philly cheesesteak sandwich.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is known for it’s more than 300 steel-related companies, six-time championship winning NFL team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, fantastic colleges, and incredible bridges and skyscrapers. While the steel industry leads the way for employment in Pittsburgh, the area also attracts those in the technology and education sectors and has become an attractive place for families and new graduates. With ample green spaces, loads of great restaurants, 90 distinct neighborhoods, and more affordable housing than most major cities, it’s no wonder Pittsburgh appeals to such a diverse group of people.
Allentown
Allentown is not only one of the most affordable cities in Pennsylvania, but it is one of the state’s most charming towns thanks to its vast collection of historic homes and buildings. Nestled in the Lehigh Valley, with the Blue Ridge Mountains to the north and South Mountain to the southwest, Allentown provides easy access to hiking and skiing. It is also just two hours from New York City and Philadelphia, making it easy for residents to enjoy the excitement of a big city just a short drive away. It’s strong job market, high quality of life, and affordability make it a desirable city for young professionals and families.