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Living in Pennsylvania: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Pennsylvania | Expat Exchange
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Living in Pennsylvania

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 20, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Pennsylvania as a mix of rural and urban living. The state is home to both bustling cities and small towns, making it a great place to live for those who want to experience a variety of lifestyles. People love the diverse culture, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the friendly people. The average cost of living in Pennsylvania is slightly higher than the national average. The median home value is around $180,000, and the median household income is around $60,000. The population of Pennsylvania is approximately 12.8 million people. The largest cities in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, and Reading. The cons of living in Pennsylvania include the high cost of living, the cold winters, and the lack of public transportation in some areas. Additionally, the state has a high crime rate in some areas.

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Is the cost of living in Pennsylvania high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Pennsylvania, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Pennsylvania is generally considered to be moderate. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Pennsylvania is typically around $1,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is usually around $1,400 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Pennsylvania typically costs around $20 per person," remarked one expat living in Pennsylvania.

What type of recreational facilities are in Pennsylvania?

When we asked people living in Pennsylvania about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Pennsylvania, residents can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, trails, and golf courses. There are also many lakes and rivers for fishing, boating, and swimming. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Pennsylvania has a number of state parks and forests, as well as ski resorts and other winter sports areas. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are bowling alleys, movie theaters, and museums. Pennsylvania also has a variety of cultural attractions, such as art galleries, music venues, and historic sites," remarked one expat living in Pennsylvania.

What is the weather like in Pennsylvania?

"The weather in Pennsylvania can vary greatly depending on the season. In the summer months, temperatures can reach the high 80s and 90s with high humidity. In the winter months, temperatures can drop to the single digits and below with snowfall and icy conditions. Spring and fall are generally mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s," said one expat living in Pennsylvania.

Are there good restaurants in Pennsylvania?

"The Capital Grille in Philadelphia is a popular restaurant in Pennsylvania. It is known for its high-end steakhouse cuisine and extensive wine list. The restaurant also offers a variety of seafood dishes and an extensive dessert menu. The atmosphere is upscale and the service is excellent. https://www.thecapitalgrille.com/home The Dandelion in Philadelphia is another popular restaurant in Pennsylvania. It is a British-style pub that serves traditional British fare such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd's pie. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting and the service is friendly. https://www.thedandelionpub.com/ The Le Bec-Fin in Philadelphia is a French restaurant that is known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant atmosphere. The menu features classic French dishes such as foie gras, escargot, and coq au vin. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and a variety of desserts. https://www.lebecfin.com/," said one expat living in Pennsylvania.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Pennsylvania?

"People living in Pennsylvania typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, farmers markets, and specialty stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are many shopping malls and outlets throughout the state where people can purchase clothing, electronics, and other items," commented one expat living in Pennsylvania.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Pennsylvania?

"In order to obtain a visa to enter Pennsylvania, applicants must first submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a visa that will allow them to enter the United States. In order to apply for residency in Pennsylvania, applicants must first submit an application to the Pennsylvania Department of State. This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and proof of legal status in the United States. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residency card that will allow them to live and work in Pennsylvania," said one expat living in Pennsylvania.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Pennsylvania?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Pennsylvania can be expensive. The cost of healthcare services and health insurance premiums vary depending on the type of coverage and the provider. Generally, health insurance premiums tend to be higher in Pennsylvania than in other states, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Pennsylvania has some of the highest prescription drug costs in the country," said one expat living in Pennsylvania.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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