Let the numbers do the talking.
Allentown, PA vs Reading, PA
Allentown, PA vs Reading, PA: What the data shows
Allentown, PA is in Allentown, PA while Reading, PA is in Reading, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Reading, PA is the more affordable option at $96,600 median — $62,200 less than Allentown, PA's $158,800. WYLT rates Allentown, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Reading, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Reading, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Allentown, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. Reading, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Allentown, PA has Low flood risk and Reading, PA has Low flood risk.
Allentown, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Allentown, PA scores 72/100 (very walkable) versus Reading, PA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Reading, PA has the higher school rating — Allentown, PA rates 6.2/10 and Reading, PA rates 6.5/10.
| Category | Allentown, PA | Reading, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $159K | $97K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $903 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $39K ✓ Higher income | $39K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 3/100 | 3/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | 3/100 |
| Commute | 90 min | 90 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 | 6.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Low‑income rentersStudentsArtists | Budget-conscious familiesRetirees seeking low costStudents or workers in nearby cities |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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