Everything You Should Know Before Moving to State College, PA
Considering a move to State College, PA? With a population of 42,100, this vibrant university town offers a youthful atmosphere, affordable median home prices around $355,000, and average 2-bedroom rents of $1,285. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates (126 per 100K), short 17-minute commutes, and outstanding education thanks to Penn State University and high-performing public schools. Expect four distinct seasons, 52% sunny days, and a lively cultural scene perfect for students, families, and professionals alike.
Demographics - State College, PA
Demographics - State College, PA
State College is home to about 42,100 residents, boasting a youthful median age of 22.7 due to its prominent university presence. The city is densely populated and ethnically diverse, with over 10% of the population speaking a language other than English at home. These factors contribute to a vibrant and dynamic community attractive to students and young professionals.
Population:
42,100
Density:
9,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
22.7
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.7%
Black:
4.2%
Asian:
11.6%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in State College, PA?
The cost of living in State College is just slightly above the national average, with a median home value of $355,000 and typical 2-bedroom rent around $1,285 per month. State taxes remain low at 3.07%, and utility and grocery costs are in line with national norms. Residents enjoy affordable living relative to the amenities and lifestyle offered by this college town.
Median House Value:
$355,000
Gross Rent:
$1,285
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,610
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$590
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.1
Grocery:
101.3
Housing:
112.8
Utilities:
99.6
Transportation:
101.2
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
102.5
Crime
Is State College, PA a safe place to live?
State College enjoys a notably low violent crime rate of 126 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe place for families and students. Property crime is moderate, with a 1 in 99 chance, but overall the city is considered secure compared to many similar-sized communities. The sense of safety contributes to a welcoming and comfortable environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
126
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,002
Crime Index:
1,128
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 793
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 99
Weather
What is the weather like in State College, PA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows near 19°F and warm summers peaking around 82°F. The area receives about 40 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 52% of the year. These weather patterns support a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
State College neighborhoods reflect the city's university-town character, with a median income of $17,900 and a high educational attainment rate—over 68% hold at least a bachelor’s degree. Despite a higher poverty rate of 35.3%, the area benefits from a low unemployment rate and short average commutes. The community is walkable, diverse, and well-connected by public transport.
Median Income:
$17,900
Household Income:
$38,800
Family Income:
$92,100
Per Capita Income:
$20,200
Income Male:
$22,800
Income Female:
$18,200
Poverty Rate:
35.3%
Non English Speakers:
10.3%
Rent:
$1,285
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
6.2%
Commute Time:
17.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.8%
Bachelors or More:
68.4%
Education
How are the schools in State College, PA?
State College is renowned for its excellent educational opportunities, highlighted by the presence of Pennsylvania State University with 46,000 students. Public schools offer strong student-teacher ratios and a variety of options, while private schools provide additional choices. This robust educational landscape makes the city especially attractive to families and learners of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
State College Area High School
Street:
650 Westerly Pkwy
Phone:
814-231-1111
Students:
2,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Name:
Park Forest Elementary School
Street:
2181 School Dr
Phone:
814-231-5010
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of Victory Catholic School
Street:
800 Westerly Pkwy
Phone:
814-238-1592
Students:
300
Colleges
Name:
Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
City:
State College
State:
PA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
46,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, anchored by Mount Nittany Medical Center and a strong physician presence of 2.6 per 1,000 people. Health insurance coverage rates are high at 92.2%, ensuring most locals have access to medical services. The healthcare infrastructure is robust for a city of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mount Nittany Medical Center
Address:
1800 E Park Ave, State College, PA 16803
Phone:
(814) 231-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.2%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in State College, PA?
The State College housing market features a median home price of $355,000, with only about a third of homes owner-occupied and a 5.8% rental vacancy rate. Home prices have appreciated moderately in recent years, and the market offers a healthy mix of rental and ownership options. This dynamic appeals to students, families, and investors alike.
Median Home Price:
$355,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,285
Owner Occupied Rate:
32.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can manage their licensing and vehicle needs through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, based in Harrisburg and accessible online or by phone. The DMV provides comprehensive services for State College locals. Its resources support both new arrivals and long-term residents.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Address:
1101 S. Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104
Phone:
1-717-412-5300
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.