Lancaster, PA

Lancaster, PA

Updated April 29, 2026 · Would You Live There? · Covers: Lancaster, Manheim

Think twice

Verdict

$297K

Median Price

Walk Score

6.8/10

Schools

95 min

to Philadelphia, PA

Score Breakdown

FWalkability
0/100
FCommute
15/100
D+Safety
55/100
C+Schools
68/100
BAffordability
78/100
B+Quietness
80/100
WYLT Score49/100

Our Take

Lancaster, PA is a suburban area with a mix of old and new homes, decent schools, and a relatively low cost of living. However, it's not very walkable, and the commute to nearby cities can be long. It might be a good fit for families or those who value a quiet, laid-back atmosphere, but others might find it too slow-paced.

Map

Loading map…

The Good

  • Good schools, with several highly-rated options in the area
  • Relatively low cost of living compared to other parts of the state
  • A mix of old and new homes, offering a range of styles and prices
  • A strong sense of community, with many family-friendly events and activities

Real Talk

  • !The area is not very walkable, and you'll likely need a car to get around
  • !The commute to nearby cities, like Philadelphia, can be long and frustrating
  • !Some areas of Lancaster can feel a bit run-down or neglected
  • !The job market is not particularly strong, and wages can be lower than in other parts of the state
  • $Higher transportation costs due to the need for a car
  • $Potential costs associated with maintaining an older home
  • $Fees for parking or other services in the downtown area

Best For

FamiliesFirst-time homebuyersThose looking for a quiet, laid-back atmospherePeople who value a strong sense of community

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow
Violent crimeModerate
Property crimeModerate
Air qualityGood
Price volatilityLow

Crime & Safety

Lancaster, PA

D+

Safety grade

Safety score55 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
Moderate
3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime
Moderate
19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

Verify with real-time data

Rates are estimated from neighborhood characteristics using national FBI baselines. Actual figures vary by block — always verify with local sources before making decisions.

Similar Neighborhoods

Philadelphia
Think twice

Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

$253K · 6.7/10 schools

Riverview
Think twice

Riverview

Riverview, FL

$308K · 6/10 schools

Philadelphia
Good for now

Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

$269K · 6.9/10 schools

Dallas
Think twice

Dallas

Dallas, TX

$300K · 7.1/10 schools

From Residents

🏘

Loading…

Know someone considering this area? Send them this report.

wouldyoulivethere.com/report/lancaster-pa-17601

📬

Stay in the loop on Lancaster

Get one email when this report refreshes (~every 90 days). No spam.

One email per update · unsubscribe any time