Is Allentown PA a Good Place to Live? Pros and Cons of Living in This Vibrant City
Is Allentown Pa a Good Place to Live?
Yes, Allentown, PA is a good place to live.
It offers a high quality of life with its rich history, thriving arts scene, and diverse economy.
The city is known for its four seasons, affordability, and proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia.
Allentown has a variety of residential areas, attractions, and outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy.
The cost of living is affordable, with housing being cheaper than the national average.
Additionally, Allentown ranks as the nation’s ninth-best place to retire and is among the top 25 safest places to live.
Key Points:
- Allentown, PA offers a high quality of life with its rich history, thriving arts scene, and diverse economy.
- The city is known for its four seasons, affordability, and proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia.
- Allentown has a variety of residential areas, attractions, and outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy.
- The cost of living is affordable, with housing being cheaper than the national average.
- Allentown ranks as the nation’s ninth-best place to retire.
- Allentown is among the top 25 safest places to live.
Did You Know?
1. Allentown, Pennsylvania is known as the “Band Capital of the World” due to its rich history in the music industry. The city was home to many renowned brass instrument manufacturers, which influenced the development of the modern brass band.
2. The popular song “Allentown” by Billy Joel, released in 1982, was inspired by the economic decline and blue-collar struggles faced by the city during the early 1980s.
3. Allentown was home to the first successful transistorized computer, the UNIVAC I, which was developed and built by the Eckert–Mauchly Computer Corporation in the 1950s. This breakthrough in technology revolutionized the modern computing industry.
4. The city of Allentown is also recognized for its vibrant art scene. The Allentown Art Museum, established in 1934, houses an extensive collection of American and European art, including works by renowned artists such as Thomas Eakins and Rembrandt.
5. Did you know that Allentown hosted the world’s first electric streetcar system? In 1889, the Allentown Electric Car Company introduced electric trolleys, marking a significant transportation innovation for urban areas and paving the way for the future of public transportation.
Rich History And Thriving Arts Scene
Allentown, PA is a city in the United States that prides itself on its rich history and thriving arts scene. It has 13 places on the National Register of Historic Places, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past. As you walk through the city, you can admire the beautiful architecture and feel as if you have been transported to a different time. The West End Theater District, Old Allentown, West Park Historic District, and Hamilton Park are just a few of the residential areas that showcase the city’s rich history.
In addition to its historical significance, Allentown also has a vibrant arts scene. The Allentown Art Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, with an impressive collection of American and European art. If you are interested in automotive history, the America On Wheels Museum is a treat, showcasing vintage cars and interactive exhibits. Another noteworthy museum is the Mack Trucks Historical Museum, which tells the story of Mack Trucks and its impact on Allentown’s industrial history.
The arts scene in Allentown extends beyond the walls of museums. The city hosts various art festivals, gallery crawls, and live performances throughout the year. The Allentown Symphony Orchestra, Civic Theatre, and Miller Symphony Hall provide a diverse range of cultural experiences for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Whether you’re a history buff or an art lover, Allentown has something to offer. Don’t miss out on exploring the city’s rich history, visiting its impressive museums, and experiencing the vibrant arts scene.
Summary of attractions in Allentown:
- Allentown Art Museum: Impressive collection of American and European art
- America On Wheels Museum: Showcasing vintage cars and interactive exhibits
- Mack Trucks Historical Museum: Tells the story of Mack Trucks and its impact on Allentown’s industrial history
- Allentown Symphony Orchestra, Civic Theatre, and Miller Symphony Hall: Provide a diverse range of cultural experiences through live performances and musical events.
Affordable Living Costs In Allentown
One of the advantages of living in Allentown, PA is its affordability. The cost of housing in Allentown is 26% cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for those looking to settle down. With a median home price of around $235,000 as of March 2023, Allentown offers affordable housing options for individuals and families.
While housing costs are low, it is important to note that miscellaneous expenses, utilities, and healthcare in Allentown can be slightly higher compared to the national average. However, the overall cost of living in Allentown remains affordable, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
- Allentown has an affordable cost of housing, at 26% cheaper than the national average.
- The median home price in Allentown is around $235,000 (March 2023).
- Miscellaneous expenses, utilities, and healthcare in Allentown can be slightly higher compared to the national average.
- Overall, the cost of living in Allentown remains affordable for residents.
Major Employers And Economic Opportunities
Allentown, PA boasts a strong economy thanks to its numerous major employers. Steel Stone Manufacturing, Air Products and Chemicals, PPL Electric Corporation, Lehigh Valley Hospital, and Amazon are some of the key contributors to the city’s thriving job market. These companies offer a diverse range of employment opportunities across various industries, ensuring a stable and dynamic economy for Allentown residents.
One of the advantages of living in Allentown is its proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia. This opens up additional employment options for residents, as many choose to commute to these cities for work. The short travel distance makes it convenient to access larger job markets and pursue career opportunities beyond Allentown.
Residential Areas And Neighborhoods
Allentown, a city in Pennsylvania, is home to a variety of residential areas and neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm. Among these neighborhoods are:
-
West End Theater District: Known for its historic architecture and thriving cultural scene, this district offers a unique experience for residents and visitors alike.
-
Old Allentown: This picturesque neighborhood boasts tree-lined streets and Victorian-style homes, giving it a classic and timeless feel.
-
West Park Historic District: Situated around the iconic West Park, this district showcases stunning homes with rich historical significance, making it a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts.
-
Hamilton Park: Combining residential and commercial properties, Hamilton Park is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and offers a dynamic living experience.
Whether you have a preference for a cozy suburban atmosphere or a more bustling urban setting, Allentown has a neighborhood that caters to your specific preferences. Each neighborhood offers a range of amenities and conveniences, ensuring that residents can find their perfect place to call home.
- Overall, Allentown provides a diverse range of residential options, allowing individuals to choose the neighborhood that best suits their needs and desires. From the historic charm of the West End Theater District to the serene streets of Old Allentown, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Cultural And Recreational Attractions In Allentown
Allentown is a city that boasts a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Allentown Art Museum, America On Wheels Museum, and the Mack Trucks Historical Museum are just a few of the cultural gems that residents can enjoy.
For those who love the outdoors, Allentown offers numerous parks and green spaces to explore. The Lehigh Parkway is a popular spot, offering picturesque walking trails that follow the scenic Little Lehigh Creek. Additionally, the Trexler Nature Preserve provides the perfect opportunity to connect with nature. Whether it’s a relaxing picnic or an invigorating hike, these outdoor spaces allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Proximity To Major Metropolitan Areas
One of the significant advantages of living in Allentown is its proximity to major metropolitan areas. Allentown is located just an hour’s drive from Philadelphia and two hours from New York City. This makes it easy for residents to access the amenities and opportunities offered by these bustling cities while enjoying the more relaxed pace of life in Allentown.
Additionally, Allentown is surrounded by charming towns such as Bethlehem, Fullerton, Wescosville, Northampton, Catasaqua, and Middletown. These towns provide residents with additional options for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Allentown, PA offers a high quality of life with its rich history, thriving arts scene, and diverse economy. The affordability of housing, along with its proximity to major metropolitan areas, makes Allentown an attractive place to live. However, it is important to consider the slightly higher costs of utilities and healthcare in the city. With its cultural and recreational attractions, variety of residential areas, and employment opportunities, Allentown is a vibrant city that has much to offer its residents.
Check this out:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the pros and cons of living in Allentown PA?
Living in Allentown, PA has its advantages and disadvantages. One of the city’s pros is its low cost of living, which makes it affordable for residents. Additionally, Allentown offers a variety of family-friendly activities, providing ample entertainment options. The city also boasts a good transportation system, making it convenient to navigate and commute within the area. Moreover, sports enthusiasts can enjoy a vibrant sports scene, with opportunities to support local teams.
However, Allentown’s winters can be harsh, which may pose a challenge for those who prefer milder climates. Furthermore, the presence of toll roads can be an inconvenience for commuters and travelers. It’s also worth noting that Allentown has a higher-than-average crime rate, which can be a concern for residents’ safety and well-being. Overall, while Allentown offers affordable living, recreational opportunities, and a reliable transportation system, it is essential to consider the cold winters, toll roads, and crime rate as potential drawbacks before settling in the city.
Is it expensive to live in Allentown PA?
Living in Allentown, PA can be slightly more expensive compared to the national average. Housing costs are 12% higher, meaning finding affordable accommodation might require some extra efforts. Utilities also come at a premium of about 4%. While basic necessities like groceries and clothing are around 6% more expensive, Allentown still offers a reasonable cost of living, making it an affordable place to reside overall.
Why do people move to Allentown?
People are drawn to Allentown for its advantageous location close to both Philadelphia and New York. Being within reach of these major cities, Allentown offers a prime opportunity for businesspeople who desire a convenient base to establish their ventures. Moreover, growing families and individuals who appreciate the perks of city life find Allentown appealing due to its proximity to urban amenities and opportunities. For a seamless transition to this vibrant city, You Move Me’s professional moving services are at your disposal, ensuring a stress-free relocation experience.
Is Allentown PA urban or rural?
Allentown, Pennsylvania is uniquely classified as an urban area. The city’s vast collection of historic homes, commercial structures, and century-old industrial buildings reflects its rich heritage and early development as one of the nation’s earliest urban centers. Allentown’s urban character is evident in its architectural landscape, showcasing a concentration of significant structures that have shaped the city’s history and contributed to its urban identity.