Let the numbers do the talking.
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 — $140,900 less than Philadelphia, PA's $299,700. WYLT rates Allentown, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Philadelphia, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Philadelphia, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Allentown, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. Philadelphia, PA has Moderate 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 56/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Philadelphia, PA has the higher school rating — Allentown, PA rates 6.2/10 and Philadelphia, PA rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Allentown, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $159K ✓ Lower price | $300K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $39K | $109K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 ✓ More walkable | 56/100 |
| Transit Score | 3/100 | 45/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 min | 13 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| 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 | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Low‑income rentersStudentsArtists | Young professionalsStudentsRemote workers |
Bottom line
If you're a low-income renter or student looking for an affordable downtown lifestyle, Allentown might be the better choice due to its lower cost of living and walkability. However, if you can afford the higher housing prices and prefer a shorter commute to a more lively area, Philadelphia is a better option for young professionals, remote workers, and bike commuters. Otherwise, Allentown's high crime rate and safety concerns may outweigh its affordability for many families or individuals prioritizing calm living.
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