Quality of Life

Pursue your happiness to the fullest

Live Happy in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, the phrase “Work Smart. Live Happy.” is more than just a motto. It’s our way of life. Today, Pennsylvania continues to lead the way for successful businesses and communities with innovation, imagination, and our legendary can-do spirit. Whether you’re an urbanite seeking the cultural center of a historic metropolis like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh, a young professional looking for a vibrant emerging community like Harrisburg or Lancaster, or an outdoor person craving the quieter side of rural Pennsylvania in the PA Wilds, there’s a community here for everyone.

Here you’ll find an affordable, diverse, and dynamic place to put down roots, build a business, grow your career, and raise a family. No matter your background or identity, you belong in Pennsylvania. Learn more about why Pennsylvania is the best choice to live for you and the ones you love.

Explore the Data

Compare the Cost

Thinking of moving to Pennsylvania, or relocating somewhere else in the state? Find which PA community is the right fit for your family by calculating the cost of living.

Calculate Cost of Living

Pennsylvania boasts a low cost of living compared to many northeastern states. In fact, we rank 8th in housing affordability across the nation. Take a look at our five most affordable cities in PA. Promising and fulfilling careers allow for extra disposable income, so you can fully experience what the state has to offer.

From watertrails and hiking, to snowsports and biking, Pennsylvania is full of opportunities to get the blood pumping and to soak in Vitamin D. With 86,000 miles of streams and rivers, over 6,700 miles of hiking trails, 124 free state parks, and 22 ski resorts, we are confident there are outdoor opportunities for everyone. Thrill seekers can take on hiking paths on the Appalachian Trail or take a lift up to Blue Knob for the most challenging slopes in the state, while relaxation enthusiasts can enjoy beaches at Presque Isle State Park or bird watch at the famous Hawk Mountain.

Our workforce and residents have access to world-renowned universities, including three of the top 50 universities in the U.S. Our colleges (nearly 300 of them!) take home the gold in various rankings, including the best colleges for business, criminal justice, information technology, music, and nursing. Further, Pennsylvania offers quality education from the start, with high-performing school districts, rising graduation rates, and strong faculty.

Pennsylvania’s cities are world-class centers for art, museums, restaurants and breweries, and our small towns feature quaint main streets and mom-and-pop shops. For an enriching afternoon, check out the Andy Warhol Museum or Philadelphia’s Historic Mile. For a full list of arts, cultural attractions, and events in the state, check out the visitPA website

Facts & Rankings

#6

largest economy by GDP

Forbes

#8

most affordable houses in the country

U.S. News

27

minute average commute

U.S. News

124

State Parks

PA Department of Conservation & Natural Resources

230

miles of the Appalachian Trail

Appalachian Trail Conservancy

86,000

miles of streams and rivers

PA Department of Conservation & Natural Resources

Be Happy In PA

Housing Market

Our housing is the 8th most affordable in the nation, and we strive to keep it that way. Whether someone is looking to build, buy, or rent, we have the resources you need.

Key Industries

Wondering what industries are growing in the Keystone State? Find out how Pennsylvania is supporting the advancement of our various industries from life sciences, logistics, robotics & A.I., and more.

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