Pennsylvania

Beaches

Cost of Living: Moderate

Train Access: Yes (septa, amtrak, patco speedline, very safe)

Bus Service: Yes (SEPTA, Port Authority of Allegheny County, LANTA, RabbitTransit, Red Rose Transit Authority, relatively safe)

Pennsylvania, officially the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, is a state located in the northeastern, Great Lakes, Appalachian, and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. It is the 33rd-largest state by area and the 5th-most populous state according to the most recent official U.S. Census count in 2020. Pennsylvania has a diverse topography that includes wide stretches of farmland, national forests, and mountains. The Appalachian Mountains run through its middle. The state is bordered by New Jersey to the east, Delaware to the southeast, Maryland to the south, West Virginia to the southwest, Ohio to the west, and New York and Ontario, Canada, to the north. The state's notable cities include Philadelphia, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, and Pittsburgh, recognized for its steel industry legacy and vibrant arts scene. Pennsylvania's economy has historically been driven by manufacturing, agriculture, and mining, but in recent decades, it has diversified to include a larger emphasis on services, healthcare, and technology. The state is also known for its educational institutions, including the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania, and for being a pivotal state in U.S. history, with landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Gettysburg Battlefield. Pennsylvania experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and hot, humid summers in many areas. The state also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its history, culture, and traditions. Pennsylvania's cuisine is reflective of its cultural heritage, with famous foods including Philly cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and the Pennsylvania Dutch specialty, shoofly pie. The state also has a growing craft beer and wine industry, with numerous breweries and vineyards across its regions. Pennsylvania's natural beauty, from the Pocono Mountains to the shores of Lake Erie, offers outdoor enthusiasts a range of activities, including hiking, skiing, and water sports. The state's rich history, diverse cities, and beautiful landscapes make it a unique place to visit and live

Expat Lifestyle

B+

Private Schools

Family Friendly

Single Friendly

B+

Senior Friendly

B-

Crime

B+

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Weather

Cost of Living

A-

Recreation

B-

Nightlife

Restaurants

Cost of Living

Pennsylvania's cost of living is generally considered moderate. It varies by location, with urban areas like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh being more expensive than rural areas, but overall, the state offers a reasonable cost of living compared to the national average.

Weather

Pennsylvania experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy, particularly in the northern and western parts of the state. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and are typically pleasant. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year.

Educational System Pennsylvania

The educational system in Pennsylvania is comprehensive and serves students from early childhood through high school. Education is compulsory for children from ages 8 to 17, and the system is divided into elementary, middle, and high school levels. Elementary school typically includes kindergarten through fifth grade, where children start at around age 5 or 6. Middle school, also known as junior high, usually comprises sixth through eighth grades, catering to students approximately 11 to 14 years old. High school consists of ninth through twelfth grades, for students roughly between the ages of 14 and 18. Upon completion of twelfth grade, students graduate with a high school diploma, which is necessary for entry into higher education or the workforce. Pennsylvania schools offer a mix of public, private, and charter school options, with public schools being funded by state and local taxes. The state is known for its strong emphasis on education, with a variety of programs aimed at enhancing learning outcomes, including STEM initiatives, arts education, and advanced placement courses. Additionally, Pennsylvania has a system of Intermediate Units that provide specialized services to school districts, such as special education and technical education.

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Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania

Discover the top-ranked towns in Pennsylvania. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.

Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

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