Introduction: Moving to Pennsylvania Guide
Are you looking to move to the magnificent state of Pennsylvania? Whether it be for a new job, a getaway closer to family, or an opportunity to take advantage of all that the Keystone State has to offer, you’ve arrived at the perfect place. Make your transition to Pennsylvania with confidence today!
If you take the time to read this guide, you will be equipped with the knowledge necessary to confidently decide whether Pennsylvania is the place for you.
This state offers an array of choices, from bustling cities to countless outdoor activities – there is something for everyone!
From where is best to reside, to the cost of living and job potentials–we’ll cover it all! Take a confident step forward in your life-planning journey with our comprehensive advice.
Are you looking to move to Pennsylvania? If so, rest assured that we are here to guide you through it with helpful tips for a smooth transition. So, let us get started on your exciting journey!
Cost of Living in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is an affordable place to live and offers a reasonable cost of living compared to other states in the US. According to the 2019 American Community Survey, the median household income in Pennsylvania is $60,850.
The median home value is around $270,000, and the median rent is $876. The cost of living in Pennsylvania is slightly below the national average.
Taxes in Pennsylvania remain sensible, with a composite state and local sales levy of 6.5%.
But contingent on which city or region of the Keystone State you occupy, expenses for everyday life can differ extensively – Philadelphia, the largest city in Pennsylvania, has living prices up to 20% above what might be expected!
Nevertheless, you’ll find this wonderful state provides great value when it comes to making a home here.
Schools and Education
Primary School System
Pennsylvania offers a robust, well-rounded education system designed to support the development of its young minds. Primary schools in Pennsylvania are among the best in the nation, providing students with a foundation of knowledge that prepares them for college and beyond.
These schools provide a comprehensive curriculum tailored to meet the needs of each individual student, including topics such as math, science, social studies, physical education, music, and art.
From Kindergarten through fifth grade, Pennsylvania primary schools also offer supplemental classes such as foreign language and technology.
Additionally, teachers work collaboratively to ensure students have access to extracurricular activities that enhance their academic performance.
In Pennsylvania, students can expect an educational experience that supports the growth and success of every learner.
Colleges and Universities
The universities of Pennsylvania offer students a long-list of educational opportunities. From the storied history of the University of Pennsylvania to the modern classrooms of Penn State University, there is something for everyone.
The University of Pennsylvania is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in the country, with a renowned library system and a global community of learners.
Penn State is another great option, providing college credibility backed by a respected alumni network.
Carnegie Mellon University provides an inventive curriculum perfect for those looking to carve their own path in the world, while Temple University offers a wide selection of degree programs and majors.
Whether you’re looking to follow in your fathers footsteps or blaze your own trail, the universities of Pennsylvania can help you get there.
Health Care Options for Newcomers in Pennsylvania
Newcomers to Pennsylvania have various healthcare options, depending on their situation. One option is to obtain private health insurance through an employer or the Health Insurance Marketplace.
Additionally, the state offers Medicaid coverage to individuals and families who meet specific criteria. Those without insurance may access the services of the Pennsylvania Community HealthChoices program, which provides comprehensive care for those in need.
Other options, such as sliding fee scales and free or reduced-cost clinics, are available. Newcomers to the state should contact their local healthcare provider to determine the best option for their specific circumstances.
Weather and Climate
Summer
Discover the beautiful outdoors of Pennsylvania! Hike through lush forests and unwind beside peaceful lakes. Visit popular spots like Valley Forge National Park and Ricketts Glen State Park for a day of outdoor activities.
Explore historic sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia to learn about the state’s past.
Enjoy a night out with friends in one of the many bustling cities, or relax in rural towns surrounded by beautiful rolling hills. With so much to do, there’s no shortage of things to explore in Pennsylvania!
Summer in Pennsylvania is often times a dream come true. With the abundance of warm sunshine, blue skies, and mild temperatures that don’t get too hot or too cold, it’s easy to understand why so many flock to the state during these months.
The days are long and bright, perfect for outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, or simply soaking up some sun. Rainfall is abundant and the humidity level keeps things comfortable throughout the season.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing lakeside vacation or an action-packed outdoor adventure, Pennsylvania has something for everyone during the summer months.
Fall
From the vibrant sights of colorful foliage in the Poconos to the crisp air of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is alive with autumnal activities.
Take a fall foliage train ride through beautiful scenery; hike along winding trails and appreciate nature’s majestic beauty; explore historic sites for a taste of the past; hop in a hot air balloon for an unforgettable view from above.
Visit farms and pick your own apples, pumpkins, and other produce; sample locally-made wines and ciders; or take a trip to flea markets, sprawling fairs, and charming festivals. With so much to do, there’s no better time than autumn in Pennsylvania!
The air in Pennsylvania is crisp and cool during the autumn months, with temperatures beginning to drop in late August.
The changing colors of the leaves create a picturesque landscape in the countryside, while the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains provide stunning views of the land below.
Summer’s humid days give way to refreshing breezes and comfortable afternoons, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like hiking trails and fishing spots.
Evenings can get chilly, so bundling up with sweaters and jackets is essential. As October comes to a close, locals begin to anticipate the fast-approaching winter season.
Winter
There is no time like winter in Pennsylvania! With its snow-covered scenery, pristine lakes and rolling hills, the Keystone State provides the perfect backdrop for a wide variety of winter activities.
From snowshoeing to skiing and even sledding, there’s something for everyone—all season long.
Take the family on a winter nature hike at Cook Forest State Park—just be sure to bundle up!
Or if you’re feeling adventurous, head over to Seven Springs Mountain Resort and tackle some of their 19 downhill ski runs.
If you’d rather stay indoors, visit Nemacolin Woodlands Resort’s Adventure Center, where they offer curling, bingo, axe-throwing and other unique activities. And don’t forget about outdoor ice skating at Hersheypark Winter Wonderland—complete with dazzling light displays and festive music.
No matter what your winter plans may be, you’ll find it all in Pennsylvania—from cozy hotels and delicious restaurants to snow-filled fun. So come join us this season and make some memories that will last a lifetime!
In the winter months, Pennsylvania experiences a wide range of temperatures. Days are often cold and filled with blustery winds, but nights can be surprisingly mild.
Blizzards may hit the state on occasion, covering the landscape in thick blankets of snow. The air is often crisp and fresh, and sunsets tend to be particularly awe-inspiring.
As the chill of winter passes and spring arrives, the climate begins to transform yet again, painting a picturesque portrait of inspiring beauty and enigmatic change.
Spring
As the chill of winter melts away, so too does the snow, leaving a blanket of soft green among the rolling hills of Pennsylvania.
In the springtime, life begins anew – trees begin to blossom and flowers bloom in vibrant hues while the warm sunlight ignites an awakening of fields ready for planting.
There is an abundance of rainfall making the moist soil perfect for growing vegetables, grains, hay, and corn – sustaining Pennsylvania’s robust agricultural industry year after year.
This season of rebirth brings not only a sense of optimism, but also freshness and beauty to the Keystone State.
As the days grow longer and the snow fades away, it’s time to explore all that Pennsylvania has to offer in the spring season.
From blooming gardens and outdoor activities, to festivals and eateries, there’s something for everyone in the Keystone State this time of year.
Go on a scenic hike at Ricketts Glen State Park, where you can take in the breathtaking views of Lower Lake while trekking through wildflowers and cascading waterfalls. Stop in Bethlehem to attend the Musikfest held every August and enjoy a variety of musical acts while feasting on delectable local food.
Take a road trip to the Poconos, where you can relax and explore miles of trails or rent a kayak for a lakeside adventure.
And pay a visit to Longwood Gardens for some of the most stunning botanical displays in PA complete with sprawling meadows, fountains, an indoor conservatory and endless paths of roses waiting to be explored.
No matter what type of spring activity you’re looking for, the possibilities are endless here in Pennsylvania!
Job Market
The career trajectory in the Keystone State is optimistic for 2023. According to current economic predictions, the state is expecting to reach—or even exceed—pre-COVID-19 levels.
The United States job market is expected to swell with 8.3 million jobs from 2021-2031, making it an ideal time for college grads of 2023.
Healthcare and social assistance are estimated to experience an impressive 29.9% boom in nurse practitioner roles, with approximately 1,200 currently existing practitioners.
Additionally, city governments are providing additional employment possibilities via their job listings.
All of these components suggest a sunny occupational climate for Pennsylvanians come 2023.
Average Wage
Pennsylvania’s average weekly earnings for full-time laborers come in just shy of the national median at $52,146 (2018 Census). But Philadelphia is the outlier, boasting the most impressive hourly median wages among major cities enforcing a minimum rate of $7.25.
Depending on profession and vicinity, educators in Pittsburgh take home an annual mean of $46,388 while over 12,500 public school personnel bring in six figures or more.
To put it into perspective, Pennsylvania has calculated that the value of the $7.25 per hour wage is 27% weaker than in 2009, reinforcing its standing as a state with lower wages compared to the rest of America.
Housing Market
There are various housing options, from rural dwellings to upscale urban apartments, in Pennsylvania. The state’s housing market offers a wide range of affordability and is relatively stable.
Generally, the most expensive cities are in the state’s northeast corner, while the most affordable areas are in other parts.
Navigating taxes in Pennsylvania can be a tricky endeavor for the uninitiated. Fortunately, the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue provides information to help taxpayers understand their obligations.
The most common taxes in Pennsylvania include the Personal Income Tax, the Sales and Use Tax, and the inheritance Tax. The Sales and Use Tax applies to purchase of goods and services, and the rate varies by location. The Personal Income Tax applies to all income earned in Pennsylvania, including salaries, wages, investments, and other sources.
Lastly, the inheritance Tax applies to money and assets inherited from a deceased person. All three taxes are administered and collected by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. It is essential to be aware of applicable taxes and fees in Pennsylvania to ensure the timely filing of returns and the accurate payment of taxes.
Transportation Options for Getting Around PA
Pennsylvania is a great state to explore, offering many different transportation options.
Public transportation is widely available in urban locations, with bus and train services from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority and the Port Authority of Allegheny County.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available, providing convenient and cost-effective options for getting around.
PA has an extensive network of highways for those with their vehicle, making it easy to get from one place to another.
Pennsylvania also has a great selection of bike trails, perfect for those who want to explore the state in an active and eco-friendly way. Whether you’re looking for a public, private, or active method of transportation, there’s an option for everyone in PA.
Popular Places to Visit
Pennsylvania has plenty of places to explore, no matter your interests. From historical sites to modern attractions, there’s something for everyone. Here are five of the most popular places to visit in Pennsylvania:
- Philadelphia – As the state’s largest city, Philadelphia is a great place to start your Pennsylvania adventure. Check out the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, or explore the city’s wide range of art and culture.
- Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh is a vibrant city with many activities, attractions, and museums. Ride the Duquesne Incline for a city view or visit the Strip District for good food and shopping.
- Hershey – Hershey is home to the famous Hershey’s chocolate factory, chock-full of sweet treats and fun attractions. Visit Hershey Park and ZooAmerica, or take a tour of the chocolate factory.
- Amish Country – Pennsylvania’s Amish Country is a great place to explore the traditional Amish way of life. Take a horse-drawn buggy ride and explore the country roads and farmlands, or sample some of the
In conclusion, moving to Pennsylvania is an excellent decision for those looking for a new place to call home. The state has something for everyone, from the bustling cities of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to the rolling hills of the countryside.
No matter where you choose to move, you’ll find a welcoming community of Pennsylvanians eager to make you feel at home. With its abundance of activities, attractions, and warm people, Pennsylvania is the perfect place to call your new home.
