Pennsylvania, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and scenic beauty, might be your next home. However, before you embark on your journey to the Keystone State, there are essential factors to ponder. Below are 10 things to consider before relocating to Pennsylvania.
1. Cost of Living
- Pennsylvania boasts a cost of living below the national average, though it varies by region and city.
- The median home value in the state is $195,000, lower than the national median of $231,000.
- Average rent stands at $1,100, also below the national average of $1,400.
- Be mindful of varying costs in cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg.
- Consider the flat state income tax of 3.07% and a 6% sales tax (except for food, clothing, and certain services).
2. Weather and Climate
- Pennsylvania experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers, cold winters, and mild springs and falls.
- The average annual temperature is 50°F, ranging from 28°F in January to 72°F in July.
- Annual precipitation averages 41 inches, with more rain in the east and south, and more snow in the north and west.
- Prepare for potential severe weather events like thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, and blizzards.
3. Education
- Pennsylvania offers a high-quality education system with numerous public and private schools, colleges, and universities.
- The state comprises 500 public school districts, 86 charter schools, and 29 cyber charter schools serving over 1.7 million students.
- Notable institutions include 14 state universities, four state-related universities (Penn State, Pitt, Temple, and Lincoln), and over 100 private colleges and universities.
4. Employment and Economy
- Pennsylvania’s diverse economy includes major industries like health care, education, manufacturing, finance, agriculture, and tourism.
- With a GDP of $803 billion, the state ranks sixth in the nation and 18th globally.
- The state’s labor force is 6.4 million, with a 6.7% unemployment rate.
- The minimum wage matches the federal minimum of $7.25, with both Fortune 500 companies and smaller businesses contributing to the job market.
5. Transportation and Infrastructure
- Pennsylvania boasts a well-developed transportation and infrastructure system.
- Over 120,000 miles of roads include the historic Pennsylvania Turnpike.
- The state features iconic bridges like the Liberty Bridge, Benjamin Franklin Bridge, and Kinzua Bridge.
- Public transportation options include 67 public-use airports, 12 Amtrak stations, 13 commuter rail lines, and various bus and subway systems.
6. Culture and Diversity
- Pennsylvania’s culture is rich and diverse, encompassing history, art, music, food, and sports.
- The state’s population of 12.8 million reflects a racial and ethnic composition of 76% white, 12% black, 8% Hispanic, 4% Asian, and 0.3% Native American.
- Cultural attractions include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Gettysburg National Military Park, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Andy Warhol Museum, and Hershey’s Chocolate World.
- Sports enthusiasts can cheer for teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, and more.
7. Health and Wellness
- Pennsylvania’s health and wellness system is robust, with over 250 hospitals and a variety of care facilities.
- Facilities like UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, and Geisinger Medical Center are among the best in the nation.
- The state provides numerous health insurance options, covering over 90% of the population.
- Abundant parks, trails, lakes, and mountains offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
8. Safety and Crime
- Pennsylvania maintains a moderate safety and crime rate, varying across regions.
- With a violent crime rate of 3.1 per 1,000 people and a property crime rate of 15.5 per 1,000 people, some areas are safer than others.
- Cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Reading may have higher crime rates, so it’s crucial to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
9. Entertainment and Nightlife
- Pennsylvania offers a diverse entertainment and nightlife scene, catering to varied preferences.
- Festivals, events, shows, casinos, bars, clubs, and restaurants provide ample entertainment options.
- The state’s theaters, cinemas, and concert venues, including the Kimmel Center, Benedum Center, Mann Center, and Bryce Jordan Center, feature local and national performers.
10. History and Heritage
- Pennsylvania boasts a rich history dating back to the founding of the nation.
- As one of the original 13 colonies, the state played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution.
- Historical landmarks, monuments, and museums like Valley Forge National Historical Park, National Constitution Center, Flight 93 National Memorial, and National Museum of American Jewish History celebrate the state’s heritage.
- Notable figures from Benjamin Franklin to Taylor Swift have contributed to Pennsylvania’s diverse legacy.
