Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Erie, PA
Considering a move to South Erie, PA? With a population of 17,500, this lakeside community offers affordable living—median home prices are just $111,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom is around $830. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 18 minutes and access to major hospitals and local colleges. While property crime rates are higher than average, South Erie boasts a friendly neighborhood feel, four true seasons, and a cost of living that’s well below the national average.
Demographics - South Erie, PA
Demographics - South Erie, PA
South Erie is home to 17,500 residents with a median age of 39, offering a balanced mix of families and working professionals. The community is predominantly White, with a notable Black population at 13.2%, and nearly 8% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density gives the area an urban yet approachable feel.
Population:
17,500
Density:
3,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
78.5%
Black:
13.2%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
6.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Erie, PA?
South Erie presents an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $111,000 and average rent at $830 for a two-bedroom apartment. The cost of living index is 78.5, significantly lower than the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, supporting an overall affordable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$111,000
Gross Rent:
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,260
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,025
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$445
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.5
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
54.0
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
89.0
Health Care:
96.5
Miscellaneous:
98.0
Crime
Is South Erie, PA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in South Erie are higher than average, with a chance of property crime at 1 in 49 and violent crime at 1 in 232. While the property crime rate is elevated, many residents find the area manageable by taking typical safety precautions. Community involvement and local law enforcement efforts aim to maintain a welcoming neighborhood environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
430
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,050
Crime Index:
2,480
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 232
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 49
Weather
What is the weather like in South Erie, PA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters averaging lows of 21°F and warm summers peaking at 79°F. The area receives around 41.8 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sun on 46% of days. This climate offers a classic northeastern experience, ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
Households in South Erie typically earn a median income of $45,400, with a poverty rate of 21%. Most residents enjoy short commute times, averaging under 18 minutes, and public transportation is lightly used. The community is largely educated, with nearly 88% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$32,200
Household Income:
$45,400
Family Income:
$55,700
Per Capita Income:
$23,100
Income Male:
$29,800
Income Female:
$25,500
Poverty Rate:
21.0%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$830
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.4%
Commute Time:
17.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.8%
Bachelors or More:
19.4%
Education
How are the schools in South Erie, PA?
Families in South Erie have access to several public and private schools, with class sizes averaging around 14 students per teacher. The city is also close to higher education options like Gannon University and Penn State Behrend, both within a short drive. The presence of diverse educational opportunities supports lifelong learning for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Strong Vincent Middle School
Street:
1330 W 8th St
Phone:
814-874-6500
Students:
680
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Name:
East Middle School
Street:
1001 Atkins St
Phone:
814-874-6400
Students:
610
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.1
Private Schools
Name:
Erie Day School
Street:
1372 W 6th St
Phone:
814-452-4273
Students:
200
Colleges
Name:
Gannon University
City:
Erie
State:
PA
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
4,250
Name:
Penn State Behrend
City:
Erie
State:
PA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
4,700
Healthcare
South Erie provides quality healthcare through two major hospitals—UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital—both offering emergency services. There are about 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 91% have health insurance coverage. Access to care is reliable, making it a comfortable city for families and retirees 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:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.3%
Health Care Index:
66.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Erie, PA?
The local housing market is favorable for buyers, with a median home price of $111,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 58%. Rental options remain affordable, and the market sees modest appreciation with low foreclosure rates. This stability makes South Erie an appealing place for both renters and homeowners.
Median Home Price:
$111,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$830
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can handle vehicle registration and licensing needs through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, conveniently located at 1101 State Street in Erie. The DMV offers accessible service and resources both in-person and online. This ensures smooth processes for new and current drivers in South Erie.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Address:
1101 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
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.