Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Erie, PA
Considering a move to Erie, PA? With a population just under 94,000, Erie offers affordable living, with median home prices around $116,500 and average rents at $815. The city features a short average commute of 17 minutes, access to major healthcare providers, and convenient higher education options. While crime rates are higher than national averages, Erie’s strong community spirit, four-season climate, and proximity to Lake Erie make it a unique place to call home.
Demographics - Erie, PA
Erie, Pennsylvania is home to nearly 94,000 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of 35.8 years. The city features a blend of ethnic backgrounds, with about two-thirds identifying as White and a significant Black and Asian presence, while over 10% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density provides an urban feel without overwhelming congestion.
Population:
93,928
Density:
4,660 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.8
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
67.4%
Black:
15.6%
Asian:
3.8%
Others:
13.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Erie, PA?
Erie boasts an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $116,500 and average rents at $815 per month. The city's cost of living index sits well below the national average, making daily expenses, including utilities and groceries, budget-friendly. Residents also benefit from Pennsylvania's flat state income tax rate of 3.07%.
Median House Value:
$116,500
Gross Rent:
$815
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,045
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$440
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.4
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
56.5
Utilities:
92.3
Transportation:
81.4
Health Care:
93.6
Miscellaneous:
91.2
Crime
Is Erie, PA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Erie are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 231 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 43 chance of property crime. While these figures may be concerning, many neighborhoods are actively engaged in community safety initiatives. Prospective residents should research local areas to find the best fit for their needs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
432
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,351
Crime Index:
2,783
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 231
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Erie, PA year-round?
Erie experiences all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm summers that reach the low 80s. The city receives about 42.7 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine about 46% of the year. These climate patterns make Erie ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety and proximity to Lake Erie.
Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
35°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
Erie's neighborhoods are a mix of working families and individuals, with a median household income around $42,700 and a poverty rate of 24.2%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and average commutes are short at just over 17 minutes. The community is diverse, with over 10% speaking a language other than English at home.
Median Income:
$28,900
Household Income:
$42,700
Family Income:
$54,900
Per Capita Income:
$22,600
Income Male:
$33,400
Income Female:
$26,700
Poverty Rate:
24.2%
Non English Speakers:
10.7%
Rent:
$815
Unemployment Rate:
7.0%
Public Transport Usage:
2.6%
Commute Time:
17.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.8%
Bachelors or More:
21.8%
Education
How are the schools in Erie, PA?
Erie offers a variety of educational opportunities, including public schools like Erie High School and Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy, as well as private institutions such as Cathedral Preparatory School. Higher education options are robust, with Gannon University and Penn State Behrend serving thousands of local students. The community values education, with nearly 88% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy
Street:
2825 State St
Phone:
814-874-6300
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.2
Name:
Erie High School
Street:
3325 Cherry St
Phone:
814-874-6200
Students:
2,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.0
Private Schools
Name:
Cathedral Preparatory School
Street:
225 West 9th St
Phone:
814-453-7737
Students:
800
Colleges
Name:
Gannon University
City:
Erie
State:
PA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,300
Name:
Penn State Behrend
City:
Erie
State:
PA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
4,700
Healthcare
Residents benefit from access to major healthcare providers like UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital, both offering full emergency services. Erie has a solid physician-to-population ratio and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 93.5%. The region’s healthcare index indicates accessible and reliable medical care for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UPMC Hamot
Address:
201 State St, Erie, PA 16550
Phone:
(814) 877-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Saint Vincent Hospital
Address:
232 W 25th St, Erie, PA 16544
Phone:
(814) 452-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
73.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Erie, PA?
Erie's housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $116,500 and average two-bedroom rents at $815. Over half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the city has a stable market with a home appreciation rate of 5.1% over the past year. Rental vacancies are moderate, offering options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$116,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$815
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services in Erie are managed by PennDOT, conveniently located on Peach Street. Residents can access licensing, registration, and vehicle services locally, with additional information available on the PennDOT website. The office provides comprehensive support for new and long-time drivers alike.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services
Address:
7200 Peach St, Erie, PA 16509
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.