Let the numbers do the talking.
Allentown, PA vs York, PA
Allentown, PA vs York, PA: What the data shows
Allentown, PA is in Allentown, PA while York, PA is in York, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, York, PA is the more affordable option at $75,700 median — $83,100 less than Allentown, PA's $158,800. WYLT rates Allentown, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and York, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
York, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Allentown, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. York, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Allentown, PA has Low flood risk and York, PA has Low flood risk.
Allentown, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Allentown, PA scores 72/100 (very walkable) versus York, PA's 51/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, York, PA has the higher school rating — Allentown, PA rates 6.2/10 and York, PA rates 6.4/10.
| Category | Allentown, PA | York, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $159K | $76K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $920 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $39K | $40K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 ✓ More walkable | 51/100 |
| Transit Score | 3/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 90 min | 75 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 | 6.4/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Low‑income rentersStudentsArtists | budget familiesstudentsremote workers |
Bottom line
If you're a student, artist, or low-income renter who wants a downtown lifestyle and is comfortable with safety concerns, Allentown might be the better choice due to its lower cost of living and walkable downtown. However, if you're on the hunt for a more family-friendly, affordable area with a low flood risk, York is the better option for budget-conscious families, students, and remote workers. Or more simply: Consider Allentown if you prioritize downtown living despite safety concerns, otherwise choose York for a more traditional family-friendly suburb.
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