Let the numbers do the talking.
Altoona, PA vs Philadelphia, PA
Altoona, PA vs Philadelphia, PA: What the data shows
Altoona, PA is in Altoona, PA while Philadelphia, PA is in Philadelphia, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Altoona, PA is the more affordable option at $134,700 median — $600 less than Philadelphia, PA's $135,300. WYLT rates Altoona, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Philadelphia, 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. Philadelphia, PA has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Altoona, PA has Low flood risk and Philadelphia, PA has Low flood risk.
Philadelphia, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Altoona, PA scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Philadelphia, PA's 44/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Philadelphia, PA has the higher school rating — Altoona, PA rates 5.6/10 and Philadelphia, PA rates 6.7/10.
| Category | Altoona, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $135K ✓ Lower price | $135K |
| Median Rent | $797 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $55K ✓ Higher income | $42K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 44/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 49/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 78/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 min | 12 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.6/10 | 6.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Budget-conscious familiesFirst-time homebuyersRetirees seeking affordable living | studentsbudget buyersbike commuters |
Bottom line
If you prioritize affordability and are willing to compromise on amenities and safety, Altoona may work for you, especially as a budget-conscious family or retiree. However, if you're a student or young professional looking for a bikeable neighborhood within reach of a major city, Philadelphia's proximity to downtown might be worth the slightly higher risk. Ultimately, neither neighborhood is a great fit for families or those prioritizing safety and modern amenities.
Share this comparison