Let the numbers do the talking.
Philadelphia, PA vs Williamsport, PA
Philadelphia, PA vs Williamsport, PA: What the data shows
Philadelphia, PA is in Philadelphia, PA while Williamsport, PA is in Williamsport, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Williamsport, PA is the more affordable option at $164,500 median — $85,500 less than Philadelphia, PA's $250,000. WYLT rates Philadelphia, PA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Williamsport, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Philadelphia, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Philadelphia, PA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Williamsport, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Philadelphia, PA has Low flood risk and Williamsport, PA has Low flood risk.
Philadelphia, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Philadelphia, PA scores 69/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Williamsport, PA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Philadelphia, PA has the higher school rating — Philadelphia, PA rates 7/10 and Williamsport, PA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Philadelphia, PA | Williamsport, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $250K | $165K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $873 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $65K ✓ Higher income | $53K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 69/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 39/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 8 min ✓ Shorter commute | 90 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.7/10 |
| Best for | Families with school-age childrenYoung professionals who value walkability and public transportationHomebuyers looking for a relatively affordable option with good schools | first‑time homeownerssmall familiesretirees |
Bottom line
For families with young children, the suburbs of Philadelphia offer superior schools and convenience, making them a clear choice - settle here. If affordability is paramount without much concern for job prospects or urban amenities, Williamsport could be a decent option. First-time homeowners, small families, or retirees may prefer Williamsport's low cost and peaceful setting, but it's definitely not a better choice for professionals or those seeking a more dynamic lifestyle.
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