Choosing where to live is a big decision, and in Pennsylvania, there are lots of great options — from busy city life to quiet small towns. Whether you want the energy of Philadelphia, the growing tech scene in Pittsburgh, or the small-town feel of Scranton, there’s something for everyone.

This guide breaks down the best cities and towns across Pennsylvania, so you can find the perfect place to call home. Let’s dive in!

Philadelphia: Big City Life With a Cozy Feel

Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania, with about 1.58 million people living there. The median home price is around $252,786, and the median rent is about $1,309. Philly mixes old history with modern life. Walking through the city, you’ll see ivy-covered buildings from the 1700s next to colorful murals, lively markets, and trendy coffee shops.

Every type of person can find a neighborhood that feels like home. Young professionals love areas like Fishtown, which is filled with art, music venues, and indie shops. If you love history and easy access to attractions, Old City might be your place. Families often settle in Manayunk and Roxborough, where there are parks, good schools, and spacious homes. Graduate Hospital is another great area if you want a quiet, walkable place that still feels close to everything.

In Philly, there’s always something fun to do. You can try famous foods like cheesesteaks, stroll through Fairmount Park, or bike along the Schuylkill River Trail. Sports fans can catch games for the Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, and 76ers. Families will enjoy places like the Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Zoo, and Adventure Aquarium across the river.

Philadelphia is a good fit for young couples, history lovers, and families who want the energy of a city but at a more affordable price compared to New York or D.C.

Pittsburgh: A Tech City With Small-Town Charm

Pittsburgh, with a population of about 300,286, has changed a lot from its old steel-town image. The median home price here is $243,355, and the median rent is about $1,201. Today, Pittsburgh is a lively and affordable place full of parks, museums, and a strong sense of community.

Families enjoy living in neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill and Shadyside, where there are excellent schools and safe streets. Young professionals often choose Lawrenceville or East Liberty, areas filled with trendy coffee shops, coworking spaces, and nightlife. If you love nature, Highland Park and Point Breeze offer quiet streets near beautiful parks like Frick Park.

Living in Pittsburgh means you can watch the Steelers play football on Sunday, explore world-class museums like the Andy Warhol Museum, and take riverfront hikes whenever you want. The city also has an affordable housing market, a growing tech and healthcare industry, and a strong job market, making it a top choice for first-time homebuyers, families, and career-focused individuals.

Lancaster: Small-Town Feel With Big-Time Charm

Lancaster is a smaller city with around 62,000 residents, where the median home price is $201,285 and rent averages $1,167. It’s set right in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, blending beautiful farmlands with a growing downtown area full of shops, cafes, and culture.

Lancaster offers something for everyone. Families love suburbs like East Petersburg and Manheim Township, where there are large homes, great schools, and friendly communities. Young professionals enjoy the downtown area for its coworking spaces, restaurants, and lively vibe. Those who prefer outdoor life often settle in surrounding towns like Lititz, where parks, trails, and open fields are easy to find.

There’s always something happening in Lancaster. You can shop at the Central Market, one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the U.S., or attend arts events like First Fridays downtown. During warmer months, Long’s Park offers concerts and scenic trails, and in the fall, corn mazes at local farms provide family fun. Lancaster is perfect for families, remote workers, and anyone who loves nature and a peaceful pace of life.

Allentown: A City on the Rise

Allentown is a mid-sized city with about 129,524 residents. The median home price is $172,716, and the median rent is $1,245. Located in the Lehigh Valley, Allentown is close to New York City and Philadelphia but offers a quieter, more affordable lifestyle.

The city has transformed over the years, with neighborhoods like the West End Theatre District showcasing art galleries, small theaters, and cozy cafes. Along Seventh Street, you’ll find a vibrant business district full of shops, restaurants, and a strong sense of community. Nature is never far away, with Blue Mountain for skiing, South Mountain for hiking, and the beautiful Allentown Rose Garden for relaxing strolls.

Families enjoy the variety of activities, from cheering for the local baseball and hockey teams to visiting Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom or exploring the Da Vinci Science Center. Local events like the Allentown Fair and farmers’ markets bring the community together throughout the year. Allentown is ideal for families, culture lovers, and commuters who want suburban comfort with easy access to the big cities.

Scranton: Affordable and Full of Heart

Scranton, with a population of about 76,000, is a hidden gem where the median home price is $131,916 and rent is only $958. Known as “The Electric City,” Scranton offers a welcoming community, a low cost of living, and a rich history.

Families are drawn to neighborhoods like Green Ridge, which has tree-lined streets and a peaceful vibe. College students and young people often settle in the Hill Section near the University of Scranton, giving the area a youthful energy. Downtown Scranton offers trendy restaurants, art galleries, and historic sites all within walking distance.

There’s a lot to do in Scranton. History buffs will enjoy places like the Steamtown National Historic Site and the Electric City Trolley Museum. Scranton also loves its festivals, like La Festa Italiana and the Scranton Jazz Festival, which fill the city with food, music, and fun. Outdoor lovers can explore McDade Park’s trails and picnic spots or take in the views at Nay Aug Park’s gorge trails.

Scranton is great for first-time buyers, festival-goers, and anyone looking for a slower, friendlier lifestyle while still being just a two-hour drive from New York City or Philadelphia.

Wrapping It Up: Picking Your New Home in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers a little bit of everything, depending on what you’re looking for. Philadelphia is perfect for young professionals and families who want a mix of culture, history, and affordability. Pittsburgh is booming with tech jobs, great parks, and neighborhoods ideal for new homebuyers. Lancaster gives you small-town charm with local markets and green spaces, while Allentown offers suburban life just a short drive from New York and Philadelphia. Scranton is a wonderful choice for anyone who wants an affordable, community-driven place with easy access to city life on weekends.

No matter what you value most — culture, outdoor adventures, affordability, or career opportunities — Pennsylvania has a place ready to welcome you home.