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 — $280,700 less than Philadelphia, PA's $439,500. WYLT rates Allentown, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Philadelphia, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
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 62/100 (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 | Think twice |
| Median Price | $159K ✓ Lower price | $440K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $39K | $94K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 ✓ More walkable | 62/100 |
| Transit Score | 3/100 | 3/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 67/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 min | 5 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 | StudentsYoung professionalsCreative freelancers |
Bottom line
If you're a low-income renter or student looking for an affordable downtown lifestyle, Allentown might be a slightly better fit due to its lower cost of living, despite the safety concerns. For those seeking a more urban feel with access to a city without breaking the bank, Philadelphia is a better choice, but be aware of rising gentrification pressures. The two neighborhoods aren't drastically different, and your decision ultimately comes down to your personal priorities and what matters most to you.
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