Moving to Pennsylvania for a new job, life opportunity, or simply to get closer with nature is a great idea at any walk of life.
We run through the best places in PA, speak to costs and costs of moving, give you job market info, and wrap it up with a common FAQ section.
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PA Here We Go!
If you’re considering a move to Pennsylvania, you’re about to enter one of the most historically rich, culturally diverse, and tastiest states in the U.S., hands down.
Known for its unique blend of urban and rural living, Philly cheese steaks, and great downtown, you can find it all here.
From the bustling city environments of the downtown to serene countryside retreats, you won’t believe are a rock’s throw away from it all.
Whether you’re drawn to its historic past, job opportunities, food scene, or natural beauty, moving to Pennsylvania is always a great idea!
Costs Before We Go
When moving to Pennsylvania, there are several costs to consider, both upfront and living. The initial expenses include hiring movers, packing materials, and storage if needed.
The cost of moving services will vary significantly depending on the distance, amount of belongings, and whether you opt for full-service movers or just rent a truck and DIY it.
Regarding housing, while Pennsylvania generally offers more affordable options than states like New York or California, the cost can still vary widely depending on the area you choose.
Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh may have higher rental or home purchase prices compared to smaller towns or rural areas.
While Pennsylvania’s overall cost of living is relatively average, it’s important to budget for these moving-related expenses.
Before We Begin: Why Pennsylvania?
PA has a little bit of everything: world-class eateries, college towns that come alive in the school year, peaceful rural areas, mountain ski resorts, and some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country. It blends history, industry, and nature without skipping a beat.
1. Areas Vary
Pennsylvania is unique because it offers the best of both worlds: large cities with everything you need and the tranquil beauty of rural regions like the Poconos or the Allegheny Highlands (my personal favorite).
- Philadelphia: Home to historic sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, and a major cultural and economic hub. As the largest city in the state, Philadelphia offers everything from cutting-edge art galleries to world-class restaurants, along with an increasingly great job market in tech, healthcare, education, and finance. It has great music venues, and festivals year-round as well as incredible food events.
- Pittsburgh: Once known for its steel industry, Pittsburgh has reinvented itself as a center for innovation and technology. Home to major research universities like Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh so a major draw in for students wanting to stay close. Pittsburgh is also celebrated for its bridges, unique neighborhoods, and thriving food scene. I personally love it’s small-town feel, yet close to everything I could want.
2. Affordable Cost of Living
Pennsylvania offers a much more affordable cost of living compared to states like New York, New Jersey, or California. Housing costs are significantly lower in most areas of PA.
While Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have higher housing costs than the rest, they are still more affordable than many other major cities on the East Coast.
Pennsylvania also has relatively low sales and property taxes, which can make your overall cost of living more manageable. If you plan to buy a big electronic purchase drive here.
3. Access to The Great Outdoors
Pennsylvania is home to some of the most beautiful natural spots in the U.S., making it an outdoor lover’s paradise! With over 120 state parks, more hiking trails than you can walk in your life, and the Appalachian Mountains across through the state, you’ll never be far from nature.
- Appalachian Trail: Pennsylvania is one of the 14 states that the Appalachian Trail runs through, which hikers a chance to explore the beauty of the mountains and wilderness. There are many cabins along the way that make the trip enjoyable.
- Poconos: The Poconos are a major local tourist destination for outdoor lovers and couples that want a getaway. Known for its blue lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails, it’s an excellent place for skiing in the winter and boating with cold beers in the summer.
- Lake Erie: For those who go crazy for water sports behind boats liek wakesurf but also for those that just relaxing by the water, Pennsylvania’s northern border along Lake Erie offers the best spot for fishing, boating, and beach outings for everyone.
4. Job Market
Almost all major industries run strong here. Some of the state’s major employers include Comcast, Penn Medicine, Hershey, and various energy companies.
In Pittsburgh, the tech industry is booming, driven by top universities and a strong startup ecosystem. Philadelphia is home to many industries, including finance, healthcare, education, and pharmaceuticals, making it an great place for job seekers in these fields.
5. Education and Healthcare
With world-class institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon, and Penn State University, the state offers unbeatable educational opportunities.
The healthcare system in Pennsylvania is also one of the best in the US, with major medical centers like the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center leading the field. This means better care for those that need it.
Where Should You Settle Down?
Your decision on where to settle in Pennsylvania largely depends on your lifestyle. Whether you want to live in an urban oasis with coffee shops every corner or a more rural area, Pennsylvania has it all.
- Philadelphia: Seeking the hustle and bustle of a major city? Philadelphia is hard to beat. Its rich history, great job market, and diverse culture make it an perfect choice for professionals, families, and creatives alike.
- Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh is a great place for young professionals, especially those in tech and healthcare, and offers a mix of urban life and outdoor fun.
- Rural Areas: For those who want to escape the urban buzz, areas like the Pocono Mountains, the Allegheny area, and rural areas in central and western Pennsylvania offer peace, privacy, and abundant amount of outdoor activities. If you can afford to live so far from the center take advantage of these great PA special spots.
PA Is Waiting For You
Relocating to Pennsylvania means taking opportunity by the head and going for your dreams. Whether you’re seeking a fast-paced city life or a tranquil getaway in nature as your everyday home, Pennsylvania has something to offer everyone.
With affordable living, diverse job prospects, and a high quality of life at a price you can handle from your day job, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to make moves on out to PA. Don’t forget to book your Pricing Van Lines movers in advance so you can get the best deals around.
Frequently Asked Questions
How affordable is Pennsylvania compared to other states?
Overall, Pennsylvania offers a lower cost of living than states like New York, New Jersey, or California. Housing costs vary, with cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are pricier but still relatively affordable if compared to major cities in neighboring states. As long as you are working locally an average job you should be well off.
What is the job market like in Pennsylvania?
The job market in Pennsylvania is strong, with many opportunities in healthcare, technology, education, manufacturing, and agriculture. Major cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are finance, healthcare, and tech hubs. If you are new out of college try interning at one of teh big companies to land a better job.
What is the weather like in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has all four seasons. Winters are cold with show, especially in the northern and mountain areas. Summers are hot but rarely reach extreme temperatures, while spring and fall bring mild weather and beautiful falling leaves of all colors.
Is PA a good place for outdoor activities?
Yes one of the best! Pennsylvania is ideal for outdoor adventure lovers with a bucket full of state parks, hiking trails for all levels, lakes, and mountains to climb. From hiking the Appalachian Trail to skiing in the Poconos, there are year-round outdoor fun things for nature lovers of all ages.
Where can I get my hands on cardboard boxes?
There are ways to purchase or source free cartons. Most movers are happy to deliver you boxes for a fee when you book with them. You can also buy them at hardware stores. Another option is to go to major chain and grocery stores and request their boxes from their daily deliveries for free.
