Let the numbers do the talking.
Allentown, PA vs Harrisburg, PA
Allentown, PA vs Harrisburg, PA: What the data shows
Allentown, PA is in Allentown, PA while Harrisburg, PA is in Harrisburg, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Harrisburg, PA is the more affordable option at $150,000 median — $8,800 less than Allentown, PA's $158,800. WYLT rates Allentown, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Harrisburg, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Allentown, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. Harrisburg, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Allentown, PA has Low flood risk and Harrisburg, PA has Low flood risk.
Allentown, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Allentown, PA scores 72/100 (very walkable) versus Harrisburg, PA's 65/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Harrisburg, PA has the higher school rating — Allentown, PA rates 6.2/10 and Harrisburg, PA rates 7/10.
| Category | Allentown, PA | Harrisburg, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $159K | $150K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $947 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $39K | $58K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 ✓ More walkable | 65/100 |
| Transit Score | 3/100 | 20/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 48/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 min ✓ Shorter commute | 120 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | F |
| Violent Crime | High | High |
| Property Crime | High | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.2/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Low‑income rentersStudentsArtists | Young professionalsStudentsArtists and creatives |
Bottom line
Both Allentown and Harrisburg are neighborhoods to think twice about due to high crime rates and busy environments. If you're a student, artist, or low-income renter, Allentown might offer more affordable options and a lively downtown lifestyle, despite safety concerns. However, if you prioritize a more stable environment and can tolerate a longer commute, Harrisburg's schools and lower home prices might make it the better choice.
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