Let the numbers do the talking.
Allentown, PA vs Pittsburgh, PA
Allentown, PA vs Pittsburgh, PA: What the data shows
Allentown, PA is in Allentown, PA while Pittsburgh, PA is in Pittsburgh, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Allentown, PA is the more affordable option at $158,800 median — $244,700 less than Pittsburgh, PA's $403,500. WYLT rates Allentown, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Pittsburgh, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Pittsburgh, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Allentown, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. Pittsburgh, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Allentown, PA has Low flood risk and Pittsburgh, PA has Low flood risk.
Pittsburgh, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Allentown, PA scores 72/100 (very walkable) versus Pittsburgh, PA's 76/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, Pittsburgh, PA has the higher school rating — Allentown, PA rates 6.2/10 and Pittsburgh, PA rates 6.3/10.
| Category | Allentown, PA | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $159K ✓ Lower price | $404K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $39K | $83K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 | 76/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 3/100 | 66/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 25/100 |
| Commute | 90 min | 9 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 | 6.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Low‑income rentersStudentsArtists | CommutersYoung professionalsRemote workers |
Bottom line
For low-income renters or those seeking a downtown lifestyle, Allentown's affordability and walkability may make it a slightly better choice despite the safety concerns. If you're a young professional prioritizing convenience over affordability, Pittsburgh's 15217 might be a better fit, offering easy access to downtown despite its higher costs. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you and your lifestyle when choosing between these two neighborhoods.
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