Pennsylvania, where America was born
Pennsylvania is a state that is overtly rich in history and culture, and it offers a wide variety of living options for its renters and their individual tastes. From bustling cities to quiet communities, there is no shortage of great places to call home in the Keystone State. We’ve narrowed down our top picks of the best places to live in Pennsylvania, sure to please renters looking for their dream homes.
Harrisburg
- Population: 50,135
- Median household income: $44,444
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,250
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,485
Harrisburg is the capital city of the state of Pennsylvania, full of rich history, vibrant arts and culture scene and outdoor attractions. The city played an important role in the American Civil War, serving as a major transportation hub for troops and supplies. Residents can explore this history at the National Civil War Museum or take a stroll through the historic district to see some of the city’s 19th-century architecture.
In terms of outdoor attractions, The Susquehanna River is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing and other activities, and there are plenty of parks and green spaces to explore. Additionally, the city is home to a thriving arts scene, with galleries, theaters and performance spaces showcasing everything from classical music to contemporary art.
Top apartments in Harrisburg:
Lancaster
- Population: 57,503
- Median household income: $54,145
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,495
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,750
Lancaster is a charming city in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, known for its rich history, beautiful countryside and food. One of the most well-known features of Lancaster is the Amish community. You can take a guided tour of the Amish countryside to see their traditional way of life, including horse-drawn buggies, farmhouses and beautiful landscapes. You can also sample homemade jams, jellies and other Amish treats.
The city also has a quaint, historic downtown area with various shops, restaurants and attractions. You can visit the Central Market, which is the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in the country, or check out the Fulton Theatre, which hosts a variety of plays throughout the year.
Top apartments in Lancaster:
Pittsburgh
- Population: 1,699,000
- Median household income: $54,306
- One-bedroom average rent: $1.402
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,699
Pittsburgh is a sports-centric city located in western Pennsylvania. It’s known for its influential steel industry, bridges and sports teams. Pittsburgh has an intense sports culture. The city has a long history of successful sports teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers football team and the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey team.
The city is also known for its history and architecture. Once a hub for the steel industry, Pittsburg is full of many old factories and mills throughout the city. If you’re interested in arts and culture, there are plenty of museums and galleries to explore in Pittsburgh as well. The Andy Warhol Museum, for example, showcases the life and work of the famous artist who was born in the city.
Top apartments in Pittsburg:
Reading
- Population: 95,331
- Median household income: $38,738
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,526
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,630
Reading is a diverse city with a mix of urban and suburban areas. It’s home to various colleges and universities, including Alvernia University and Reading Area Community College. The city also has a booming arts and culture scene, with several theaters and galleries showcasing local talent.
Reading has a rich history, particularly in the industrial and railroad industries. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the city was a major center for iron and steel production, and many of the historic buildings in downtown Reading were built during this time. In fact, the city’s nickname is “The Pretzel City” due to its history as a center of pretzel production.
Top apartments in Reading:
Scranton
- Population: 95,331
- Median household income: $44,161
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,412
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,400
If you’re a fan of “The Office,” you might already know a bit about Scranton, as the popular TV show was set there. Scranton has a rich history in relation to the coal mining industry and still has remnants of that heritage today. The Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour is a popular attraction where you can explore an actual coal mine and learn about the city’s coal mining history.
When it comes to food, Scranton offers a mix of culinary cuisine. You can find everything from traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dishes to modern American favorites. The city is particularly known for its pizza and hoagies, and you’ll find numerous local establishments serving up delicious versions of these classic favorites.
Top apartments in Scranton:
Philadelphia
- Population: 5,756,000
- Median household income: $52,649
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,812
- Two-bedroom average rent: $2,117
The heart of Pennslyvania comes alive in the bustling city of Philadelphia. This city is a vibrant neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial spaces. Here, you’ll find high-rise apartment buildings, condominiums and lofts. Residents are within walking distance of many cultural attractions, restaurants, shops and work opportunities.
Philadelphia is known for its rich history, world-class museums, vibrant arts scene and sports culture. From the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Philadelphia Orchestra, there’s no shortage of cultural experiences for renters to enjoy.
Top apartments in Philadelphia:
York
- Population: 44,968
- Median household income: $46,050
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,242
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,433
Located in the southern part of the state, York is an affordable city with quaint neighborhoods. York has deep historical significance as it was the temporary capital of the United States during the American Revolution when the Continental Congress met here. It’s also the birthplace of the Articles of Confederation, the first written constitution of the United States.
If you’re into a mix of historic and modern influence, Downtown York is the perfect spot. Residents have access to cool apartments with lots of character surrounded by local shops and restaurants to explore. Access to transportation is great as well with the Rabbit Transit buses to help get around the city and connect to nearby areas.
Top apartments in York:
Allentown
- Population: 777,000
- Median household income: $47,703
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,741
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,735
Allentown is known for its diverse and vibrant culture. The city is home to a blend of different ethnicities, which is reflected in its festivals, cuisine and community events. Allentown offers a thriving arts and entertainment scene. The Allentown Art Museum and the Civic Theatre of Allentown, are just two places residents can enjoy entertainment and expand horizons.
Nature lovers will appreciate the parks and outdoor spaces Allentown offers. Lehigh Parkway, a scenic park along the Lehigh River, offers walking trails, picnic areas and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The Trexler Nature Preserve, just outside of Allentown, provides even more opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
Top apartments in Allentown:
Erie
- Population: 94,571
- Median household income: $40,201
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,192
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,430
Erie is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the biggest and most well-known draws of Erie is its stunning natural beauty through spots like Lake Erie. In addition to Presque Isle State Park, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping and exploring nature in the surrounding area.
The city area, downtown Erie, offers a mix of commercial, residential and cultural attractions for residents to enjoy. State Street serves as the main thoroughfare, lined with shops, restaurants and businesses. Downtown is home to historic buildings, including the ornate Warner Theatre, which hosts a variety of performances and events.
Top apartments in Erie:
Create your own history in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a state that truly showcases its rich history and diverse culture, providing renters with a multitude of living options to suit their individual preferences.
With our top picks of the best places to live, renters can confidently embark on their search for their dream homes, knowing that Pennsylvania has something to offer everyone. Start your search today!
