Let the numbers do the talking.
Altoona, PA vs Williamsport, PA
Altoona, PA vs Williamsport, PA: What the data shows
Altoona, PA is in Altoona, PA while Williamsport, PA is in Williamsport, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Altoona, PA is the more affordable option at $134,700 median — $29,800 less than Williamsport, PA's $164,500. WYLT rates Altoona, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Williamsport, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Altoona, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Williamsport, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Altoona, PA has Low flood risk and Williamsport, PA has Low flood risk.
Altoona, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Altoona, PA scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Williamsport, PA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Williamsport, PA has the higher school rating — Altoona, PA rates 5.6/10 and Williamsport, PA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Altoona, PA | Williamsport, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $135K ✓ Lower price | $165K |
| Median Rent | $797 ✓ Lower rent | $873 |
| Median Income | $55K ✓ Higher income | $53K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 90 min | 90 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.6/10 | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Budget-conscious familiesFirst-time homebuyersRetirees seeking affordable living | first‑time homeownerssmall familiesretirees |
Bottom line
For a budget-conscious family or first-time homebuyer, Altoona is a slightly better option due to its more affordable housing and slightly shorter commute. However, Williamsport may be a better choice for a retiree who values low cost and a slower pace of life. Ultimately, Williamsport's lower flood risk is a consideration that may sway the decision for someone who is cautious about the risks associated with low-lying areas.
Share this comparison