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Allentown, PA vs Philadelphia, PA
Allentown, PA vs Philadelphia, PA: What the data shows
Allentown, PA is in Allentown, PA while Philadelphia, PA is in Philadelphia, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Allentown, PA is the more affordable option at $158,800 median — $91,200 less than Philadelphia, PA's $250,000. WYLT rates Allentown, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Philadelphia, PA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Philadelphia, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Allentown, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. Philadelphia, PA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Allentown, PA has Low flood risk and Philadelphia, PA has Low flood risk.
Allentown, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Allentown, PA scores 72/100 (very walkable) versus Philadelphia, PA's 69/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Philadelphia, PA has the higher school rating — Allentown, PA rates 6.2/10 and Philadelphia, PA rates 7/10.
| Category | Allentown, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $159K ✓ Lower price | $250K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $39K | $65K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 ✓ More walkable | 69/100 |
| Transit Score | 3/100 | 39/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 min | 8 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.2/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Low‑income rentersStudentsArtists | Families with school-age childrenYoung professionals who value walkability and public transportationHomebuyers looking for a relatively affordable option with good schools |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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