Let the numbers do the talking.
McKeesport, PA vs New Castle, PA
McKeesport, PA vs New Castle, PA: What the data shows
McKeesport, PA is in McKeesport, PA while New Castle, PA is in New Castle, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, McKeesport, PA is the more affordable option at $85,000 median — $23,300 less than New Castle, PA's $108,300. WYLT rates McKeesport, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and New Castle, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
New Castle, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. McKeesport, PA has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. New Castle, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, McKeesport, PA has Low flood risk and New Castle, PA has Low flood risk.
New Castle, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. McKeesport, PA scores 2/100 (car-dependent) versus New Castle, PA's 32/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, McKeesport, PA has the higher school rating — McKeesport, PA rates 6.4/10 and New Castle, PA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | McKeesport, PA | New Castle, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $85K ✓ Lower price | $108K |
| Median Rent | $767 | $693 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $33K | $47K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 2/100 | 32/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 14/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 75 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.7/10 |
| Best for | First‑time home buyers on a budgetFamilies with children looking for affordable school optionsRemote workers who don’t rely on local transit | first‑time homebuyers on a budgetfamilies seeking a quiet suburban settingretirees looking for affordable living |
Bottom line
McKeesport is the cheaper, closer option—$85K versus $108K—but its high crime, low walkability and limited transit make it a riskier place for families or those needing local amenities. New Castle offers a safer, more walkable environment and no flood risk, though it costs more and requires a 75‑minute drive to Pittsburgh. Choose McKeesport if you need the lowest price and can accept the drawbacks, or pick New Castle if you prioritize safety and walkability over a shorter commute.
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