Pennsylvania completely flipped my expectations upside down. When I first visited, I thought I was in for endless farmland and old industrial towns. Instead, I discovered vibrant cities and gorgeous landscapes that made me seriously consider a move east. Pittsburgh especially caught me off guard with its incredible food scene, tech jobs, and neighborhoods where you can actually afford to buy a house with a view.
These are the best places in Pennsylvania that blend small town charm with big city perks. Take Media, just outside Philly, where I spent evenings strolling between local restaurants and mornings grabbing coffee at cafes where everyone seemed to know each other. From revitalized cities to charming suburbs, these spots prove Pennsylvania offers way more than just cheesesteaks and steel mills.
Most Livable Places in Pennsylvania
Looking for the best Livable Places in Pennsylvania? Walk through the historic streets of Allentown, experience the suburban charm of Ardmore, explore the upscale community of Devon, enjoy the waterfront beauty of Erie, and discover the capital city vibes of Harrisburg. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, here are the top places to consider in Pennsylvania.
- Best overall: Philadelphia
- for affordable living: Allentown
- Best for community and education: Ardmore
- Best for suburban charm: Devon
- Best for waterfront living: Erie
- Best for city amenities and green spaces: Harrisburg
- Best for history and culture: Lancaster
- Best for quiet suburban life: Penn Wynne
- Best for vibrant city life: Pittsburgh
- Best for urban renewal: Reading
- Best for outdoor activities: Scranton
- Best for small-town feel: West Chester
- Best for diversity and festivals: York
1. Allentown
Allentown blends city energy with suburban comfort, making it one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania. Nestled in the Lehigh Valley, this historic city has transformed into a modern hub with revitalized downtown spaces, a vibrant arts scene, and endless entertainment. From catching a show at Miller Symphony Hall to exploring the Allentown Art Museum, there’s always something happening.
Outdoor enthusiasts love the Lehigh Parkway, which offers scenic trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. Families benefit from top-rated schools, a strong sense of community, and a cost of living that’s more affordable than Philadelphia or Pittsburgh. Meanwhile, young professionals enjoy job opportunities in healthcare, education, and manufacturing—industries that keep Allentown’s economy thriving.
With its historic charm, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions, Allentown stands out as one of the best cities to live in Pennsylvania, offering a balanced lifestyle for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
2. Ardmore
Ardmore balances suburban charm with city convenience, making it one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania. Located along the Main Line just outside Philadelphia, this vibrant town offers a mix of historic neighborhoods, trendy shops, and top-rated schools, making it a hotspot for families and professionals alike.
At the heart of Ardmore is Suburban Square, an open-air shopping destination filled with boutiques, cafés, and farmers markets. The town is also a cultural hub, with live music venues, art galleries, and community events that keep the energy high. Plus, with easy access to Center City Philadelphia via SEPTA, residents can enjoy big-city perks without the urban chaos.
With its walkable streets, excellent schools, and thriving local scene, Ardmore is a top Pennsylvania town to live in, offering a perfect mix of small-town warmth and big-city excitement.
3. Devon
Devon exudes elegance and small-town charm, making it one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania. Nestled along the prestigious Main Line, this affluent community is known for top-rated schools, beautiful homes, and a strong equestrian tradition—home to the famous Devon Horse Show, the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the U.S.
Beyond its equestrian roots, Devon offers a peaceful, upscale lifestyle with boutique shopping, fine dining, and lush green spaces. Its proximity to Philadelphia provides residents with easy access to the city’s cultural and business hubs while maintaining a serene suburban atmosphere.
For those seeking a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a close-knit community, Devon is a top Pennsylvania town to live in, offering both historic charm and modern luxury in one of the state’s most desirable areas.
4. Erie
Set along the stunning Lake Erie shoreline, this waterfront city is one of Pennsylvania’s best places to live for those who love outdoor adventures, affordability, and a strong sense of community. With Presque Isle State Park offering miles of sandy beaches, scenic trails, and year-round activities, Erie is a dream for boaters, hikers, and nature lovers.
But Erie isn’t just about the great outdoors. The city has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, featuring the Erie Art Museum, Warner Theatre, and lively local festivals. The historic downtown blends rich history with modern attractions, from trendy restaurants to craft breweries.
With a low cost of living, affordable housing, and a welcoming atmosphere, Erie is a great alternative to Pennsylvania’s bigger cities. Whether you’re looking for lakeside serenity, career opportunities, or a slower pace of life, Erie offers the best of both worlds.
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5. Harrisburg
Harrisburg is more than just Pennsylvania’s capital—it’s a city that blends history, green spaces, and modern conveniences. With a growing job market, affordable cost of living, and easy access to both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, it’s one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania for professionals and families alike.
The city’s rich history is on full display at the Pennsylvania State Capitol, while its vibrant arts and food scene comes alive in Midtown, home to Broad Street Market—one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the U.S. Riverfront Park provides a peaceful escape, offering walking trails, summer festivals, and gorgeous views of the water.
With top-rated schools, expanding industries, and a mix of urban and suburban living, Harrisburg is a hidden gem that offers a high quality of life without the big-city price tag.
6. Lancaster
Lancaster isn’t just about Amish buggies and rolling farmland—it’s a thriving city with a tight-knit community, a lively downtown, and some of the best food in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re grabbing fresh produce at Central Market, sipping craft beer at a local brewery, or exploring the vibrant art scene, there’s always something happening here.
The best part? Lancaster offers big-city perks without the big-city price tag. The cost of living is reasonable, and you’ll find historic homes, modern apartments, and spacious suburban neighborhoods to fit any lifestyle. Plus, with top-rated schools and a strong local economy, it’s a fantastic place to put down roots.
Want a balance of city energy and countryside serenity? Lancaster has you covered. One minute, you’re enjoying a trendy café in the bustling downtown, and the next, you’re driving past scenic farmland that looks straight out of a postcard.
7. Penn Wynne
Tucked just outside Philadelphia, Penn Wynne is a hidden gem that blends suburban charm with big-city convenience. It’s one of those places where neighbors know your name, kids ride bikes on tree-lined streets, and top-rated schools make it a dream for families.
The sense of community is unmatched, making Penn Wynne stand out. Local parks like Penn Wynne Park are always buzzing with activity, and seasonal events bring people together. Plus, with Philadelphia just minutes away, you get all the perks of city life—world-class dining, museums, and entertainment—without the daily chaos.
If you’re looking for a place that offers peace, safety, and a fantastic quality of life, Penn Wynne checks all the boxes. It’s got small-town warmth with easy access to urban excitement, making it one of the best suburbs in Pennsylvania to call home.
8. Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh has reinvented itself, evolving from a steel powerhouse into a hub for innovation, culture, and outdoor adventure. Its breathtaking skyline, iconic three rivers, and historic bridges make the city visually striking, while top-tier universities like Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh drive its strong economy.
Beyond work, Pittsburgh is full of energy. Catch a Steelers game, explore the Andy Warhol Museum, or grab a Primanti Bros. sandwich in the Strip District. Neighborhoods like Shadyside and Squirrel Hill offer walkable streets, green spaces, and a welcoming community. Even the city’s food scene is buzzing, with everything from old-school diners to cutting-edge restaurants serving up incredible meals.
With affordable housing, a thriving job market, and endless things to do, Pittsburgh offers the perfect mix of urban excitement and hometown charm. Whether you’re here for work, play, or both, the Steel City delivers.
9. Reading
Reading is a city on the rise, blending historic charm with a growing arts and business scene. Once an industrial powerhouse, it’s now undergoing a major revival, attracting new businesses, creatives, and families looking for affordability without sacrificing culture or convenience.
Downtown is full of life, with museums, theaters, and art galleries adding a creative pulse to the city. The famous Pagoda on Mount Penn offers breathtaking views, while the annual Reading Liederkranz Oktoberfest celebrates the area’s rich German heritage. Outdoor lovers will enjoy the Schuylkill River Trail and nearby hiking spots, perfect for weekend adventures.
With a cost of living far below Pennsylvania’s bigger cities, Reading is an attractive option for those seeking affordable homes, a growing economy, and a tight-knit community. Its mix of history, reinvention, and natural beauty makes it an exciting place to put down roots.
10. Scranton
Scranton, known as the Electric City, is a place where history meets reinvention. Once an industrial powerhouse, the city has transformed into an affordable, community-driven hub with a deep appreciation for arts, culture, and the outdoors.
Stroll through downtown, and you’ll find charming cafes, boutique shops, and striking historic buildings that reflect Scranton’s storied past. Events like the Scranton Fringe Festival and First Friday Art Walks bring creativity to the forefront, while the Steamtown National Historic Site celebrates the city’s rich railroad heritage. Sports fans can also cheer on the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, the Yankees’ Triple-A affiliate.
For outdoor lovers, Scranton is the perfect gateway to the Pocono Mountains, offering year-round hiking, skiing, and scenic escapes. With affordable housing, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, Scranton is an ideal place for those who want big opportunities in a city with small-town warmth.
11. West Chester
West Chester radiates small-town charm with a lively, modern edge. Nestled in Chester County, this vibrant borough is known for its brick-lined streets, historic architecture, and a thriving downtown packed with boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and inviting cafes. It’s a walkable, picturesque town where there’s always something happening.
Community events are at the heart of West Chester, from the Christmas Parade and Swingin’ Summer Thursdays to the Turks Head Music Festival. West Chester University infuses the town with youthful energy, while top-rated schools and beautiful parks make it an excellent spot for families. Its location near Philadelphia and the scenic Brandywine Valley offers the perfect mix of convenience and outdoor adventure.
With its engaging social scene, rich history, and welcoming community, West Chester isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s a fantastic place to call home.
12. York
York effortlessly combines history, culture, and a strong sense of community, making it one of the most underrated places to live in Pennsylvania. Known as the White Rose City, this historic town played a key role in the American Revolution and still embraces its past through well-preserved architecture and engaging museums.
Beyond history, York pulses with energy. The revitalized downtown boasts farmers markets, art galleries, and a thriving craft beer scene, while annual events like the York Fair—the nation’s oldest—bring locals together for food, music, and fun. Outdoor lovers can explore the Heritage Rail Trail or nearby Codorus State Park, perfect for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
With its affordable cost of living, expanding job market, and rich local culture, York offers a lifestyle that’s both exciting and deeply rooted in tradition.
13. Philadelphia
Last but definitely not least, Philadelphia is where history meets modern energy in the most exciting way. From the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to its ever-evolving food and arts scene, this city is a powerhouse of culture, innovation, and East Coast charm.
Each neighborhood tells its own story—Fishtown’s hipster vibes, Old City’s cobblestone streets, and Rittenhouse Square’s elegance. And let’s talk about the food—cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and a booming restaurant scene that keeps Philly at the forefront of culinary greatness. Sports? This city bleeds passion, whether it’s Eagles football, Sixers basketball, or Phillies baseball.
Living in Philly means never running out of things to do, whether you’re exploring world-class museums, catching live music, or strolling along the Schuylkill River Trail. It’s a city that keeps you engaged, inspired, and always looking forward to what’s next.
