Let the numbers do the talking.
Allentown, PA vs Chester, PA
Allentown, PA vs Chester, PA: What the data shows
Allentown, PA is in Allentown, PA while Chester, PA is in Chester, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Chester, PA is the more affordable option at $80,100 median — $78,700 less than Allentown, PA's $158,800. WYLT rates Allentown, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Chester, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Chester, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Allentown, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. Chester, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Allentown, PA has Low flood risk and Chester, PA has Low flood risk.
Allentown, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Allentown, PA scores 72/100 (very walkable) versus Chester, PA's 46/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Allentown, PA has the higher school rating — Allentown, PA rates 6.2/10 and Chester, PA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Allentown, PA | Chester, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $159K | $80K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $995 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $39K ✓ Higher income | $38K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 ✓ More walkable | 46/100 |
| Transit Score | 3/100 | 10/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 90 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.2/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.1/10 |
| Best for | Low‑income rentersStudentsArtists | First‑time buyersRenters looking for low cost of entryRemote workers who don’t mind a car |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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