Let the numbers do the talking.
Allentown, PA vs Williamsport, PA
Allentown, PA vs Williamsport, PA: What the data shows
Allentown, PA is in Allentown, PA while Williamsport, PA is in Williamsport, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Allentown, PA is the more affordable option at $158,800 median — $5,700 less than Williamsport, PA's $164,500. WYLT rates Allentown, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Williamsport, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Williamsport, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Allentown, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. Williamsport, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Allentown, PA has Low flood risk and Williamsport, PA has Low flood risk.
Allentown, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Allentown, PA scores 72/100 (very walkable) versus Williamsport, PA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Allentown, PA has the higher school rating — Allentown, PA rates 6.2/10 and Williamsport, PA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Allentown, PA | Williamsport, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $159K ✓ Lower price | $165K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $873 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $39K | $53K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 3/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| 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 ✓ Better schools | 5.7/10 |
| Best for | Low‑income rentersStudentsArtists | first‑time homeownerssmall familiesretirees |
Bottom line
For someone looking for a low-cost, walkable downtown lifestyle, Allentown might work if they're comfortable with higher crime rates and a busy atmosphere. However, if they desire a more family-friendly environment and don't need immediate access to a city's amenities, Williamsport might be a better fit due to its lower crime and more affordable housing options. Ultimately, it's essential to weigh the specific needs and priorities of each individual when choosing between these two neighborhoods.
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