Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Allentown, PA
Thinking of moving to Allentown, PA? With a population of about 126,000, Allentown offers affordable living with a median home price around $199,000 and average rent at $1,350. The city features a vibrant, diverse community, reasonable commute times of 25 minutes, and major hospitals and colleges close by. While crime rates are above national average, Allentown balances this with accessible amenities, a moderate cost of living, and four-season climate—making it a practical choice for families and professionals seeking value in Pennsylvania.
Demographics - Allentown, PA
Demographics - Allentown, PA
Allentown is a diverse city of approximately 126,000 residents, with a youthful median age of 33.5 and a population density of 7,000 per square mile. The community features a broad mix of backgrounds, with over 50% identifying as minorities and more than a quarter speaking a language other than English at home. This diversity contributes to a vibrant local culture and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
125,934
Density:
7,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.5
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
27.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
34.6%
Black:
12.5%
Asian:
2.6%
Others:
50.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Allentown, PA?
Living in Allentown is relatively affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and a median home value of $199,000. Residents benefit from reasonably priced housing and moderate utility costs, making it an attractive option for those seeking value in Pennsylvania. State taxes are low, and essential expenses like groceries and healthcare remain manageable for most households.
Median House Value:
$199,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,550
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
90.8
Grocery:
96.2
Housing:
78.3
Utilities:
102.4
Transportation:
97.1
Health Care:
92.8
Miscellaneous:
89.7
Crime
Is Allentown, PA a safe place to live?
Allentown has higher-than-average crime rates, with a chance of experiencing property crime around 1 in 43 and violent crime at 1 in 192. While vigilance is necessary, many neighborhoods remain safe and welcoming, especially with community initiatives focused on safety. Prospective residents should research local areas to find the best fit for their needs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
522
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,348
Crime Index:
2,870
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 192
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Allentown, PA year-round?
Allentown experiences all four seasons, offering warm summers with highs up to 85°F and cold winters dipping to 22°F. The city enjoys about 52% sunny days each year and receives roughly 45 inches of rainfall annually, providing a balanced climate ideal for outdoor activities and seasonal events.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The typical Allentown household earns around $49,000, with a notable poverty rate of 25.5%. Commute times average about 25 minutes, and public transportation is available but not widely used. The community is diverse both culturally and socioeconomically, creating a dynamic environment for residents.
Median Income:
$23,800
Household Income:
$49,340
Family Income:
$58,400
Per Capita Income:
$23,800
Income Male:
$37,100
Income Female:
$31,400
Poverty Rate:
25.5%
Non English Speakers:
27.2%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
6.5%
Public Transport Usage:
4.1%
Commute Time:
24.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
75.8%
Bachelors or More:
20.6%
Education
How are the schools in Allentown, PA?
Allentown features a wide range of educational opportunities, from large public schools like William Allen High to private and parochial options, as well as higher education institutions such as Cedar Crest College and Muhlenberg College. The city is committed to supporting students, with a majority of adults holding at least a high school diploma. Local schools are known for their diversity and community involvement, making the area appealing for families.
Public Schools
Name:
William Allen High School
Street:
106 N 17th St
Phone:
484-765-5000
Students:
2,650
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.6
Name:
Trexler Middle School
Street:
851 N 15th St
Phone:
484-765-4600
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Private Schools
Name:
Allentown Central Catholic High School
Street:
301 N 4th St
Phone:
610-437-4601
Students:
650
Colleges
Name:
Cedar Crest College
City:
Allentown
State:
PA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,400
Name:
Muhlenberg College
City:
Allentown
State:
PA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,200
Healthcare
Allentown offers robust healthcare options with major hospitals like Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest and St. Luke's Hospital providing comprehensive services, including emergency care. The city has a strong physician presence, with about 2.6 doctors per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage. Access to quality medical care is a key benefit for families and individuals living here.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest
Address:
1200 S Cedar Crest Blvd, Allentown, PA 18103
Phone:
(610) 402-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Luke's Hospital – Allentown Campus
Address:
1736 Hamilton St, Allentown, PA 18104
Phone:
(610) 628-8300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
72.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Allentown, PA?
Allentown’s housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $199,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,350. Nearly half of residents own their homes, and the area has experienced steady appreciation rates over the past year. Rental vacancies are moderate, offering options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$199,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
46.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents manage their driver and vehicle services through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) located on Hoover Avenue in Allentown. PennDOT provides comprehensive DMV services, including licensing and registration, and offers helpful resources online and by phone for easy access.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)
Address:
1710 Hoover Ave, Allentown, PA 18109
Phone:
1-800-932-4600
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.