Six Pa. Cities Make Top 50 List of Places to Retire

Six Pennsylvania cities recently made the top 50 list of Best Places to Retire in the U.S. 2020 by U.S. News and World Report.

Lancaster, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Harrisburg, Philadelphia and Reading all scored well enough on the criteria, which included the happiness of local residents, housing affordability, tax rates and healthcare quality. All Pennsylvania cities listed scored especially high on healthcare, making them a great option for those retiring

Lancaster, which was ranked first last year, fell to third on the list. The quality of life in Lancaster, along with the value. is what helps set it apart from other areas. The median home price in Lancaster is $196,025, more than $30,000 below the national average of $227,025. Lancaster also boasts of population of all ages, including nearly 17% of people 65 and older.

Pittsburgh was next on the list, coming in 18th overall. Thanks to the cost of living in the city, in which the median home price is $140,855, Pittsburgh is very affordable for people of most income brackets. Additionally, Pittsburgh is considered a very walkable and bikeable city, adding to its’ quality of life score. With a metro population of over 2 million people, Pittsburgh has something for people of all ages, including the 18.7% who are 65 and older.

In 23rd place was Allentown, another Pennsylvania town applauded for the affordability. The median home price is just $174,858, more than $50,000 below the national median price. Located close to major cities like Philadelphia and New York City, as well as offering a wide variety of cultural opportunities makes Allentown stand out. With 17% of the residents 65 and older, retirees will fit right in.

Harrisburg was right behind Allentown, landing in 25th place. With a wide variety of outdoor options, as well as entertainment and fine dining, the state capitol is a great place for retirees. Like the rest of the Pennsylvania towns, Harrisburg’s median home price is far below the national median, just $162,967. More than 16% of residents are 65 and older.

In 27th place was Philadelphia. Food, sports and culture is what Philadelphia is known for. More than 16% of residents are 65 and older, and it’s safe to say retirees will not be bored in the City of Brotherly Love. The median home price is just above $200,000, still below the national median.

Reading landed in 38th. The city offers a low cost of living, the median home price is just $151,900. The area offers plenty of trails for walking, biking and running. There is also shopping and sports, and with a population of 16.3% 65 and older, retirees will fit right in.