Let the numbers do the talking.
Altoona, PA vs Harrisburg, PA
Altoona, PA vs Harrisburg, PA: What the data shows
Altoona, PA is in Altoona, PA while Harrisburg, PA is in Harrisburg, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Altoona, PA is the more affordable option at $134,700 median — $15,300 less than Harrisburg, PA's $150,000. WYLT rates Altoona, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Harrisburg, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Altoona, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Altoona, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Harrisburg, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Altoona, PA has Low flood risk and Harrisburg, PA has Low flood risk.
Harrisburg, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Altoona, PA scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Harrisburg, PA's 65/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Harrisburg, PA has the higher school rating — Altoona, PA rates 5.6/10 and Harrisburg, PA rates 7/10.
| Category | Altoona, PA | Harrisburg, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $135K ✓ Lower price | $150K |
| Median Rent | $797 ✓ Lower rent | $947 |
| Median Income | $55K | $58K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 65/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 20/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 48/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 min ✓ Shorter commute | 120 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.6/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Budget-conscious familiesFirst-time homebuyersRetirees seeking affordable living | Young professionalsStudentsArtists and creatives |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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