These 7 Pennsylvania Cities Becoming Empty Because Everyone is Leaving

Pennsylvania boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes. However, not all residents are content with their circumstances. As per the U.S. Census Bureau, Pennsylvania saw a population decline of approximately 38,000 (0.3%) from April 2020 to July 2021. Many individuals are choosing to relocate from the state due to factors like high taxes, low wages, unfavorable weather, and limited opportunities. These are the top seven cities that have experienced the highest number of people leaving Pennsylvania in the past few years.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is the biggest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth biggest in the United States. It is famous for its historical landmarks, museums, sports teams, and cheesesteaks. However, it is also considered one of the priciest cities to reside in due to its high cost of living, housing, and taxes. The city experiences high levels of crime, traffic congestion, and pollution. Several residents are moving away from Philadelphia to neighboring suburbs or different states like Delaware, New Jersey, or Maryland. Philadelphia saw a decrease of more than 27,000 households in 2020, as reported by the U.S. Postal Service.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh ranks as the second-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 66th-largest in the U.S. It used to be a center for industry but has now become a contemporary city with a lively arts, culture, and education community. It is home to prestigious universities, such as Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh, and renowned museums, such as the Andy Warhol Museum and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.

However, Pittsburgh also encounters numerous challenges, including a decreasing population, an aging workforce, a diminishing tax base, and a high poverty rate. A significant number of Pittsburgh residents are relocating to warmer and more economically thriving states like Florida, Texas, or Arizona. Pittsburgh saw a decrease of over 9,000 households in 2020, as reported by the U.S. Postal Service.

Allentown

Allentown ranks as the third-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 233rd-largest in the U.S. It has experienced rapid growth due to its close proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. This area is known for its manufacturing, health care, and education sectors, with key companies like Air Products, Lehigh Valley Health Network, and Lehigh University. Allentown also faces challenges such as a high unemployment rate, low median income, and high crime rate. Residents are moving away from Allentown to find more affordable and safer options like Bethlehem, Easton, or Reading. Reportedly, Allentown saw a decrease of over 4,000 households in 2020, as per the U.S. Postal Service.

Simple

Erie is the fourth-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 299th-largest in the U.S. It sits on the shores of Lake Erie, providing a picturesque waterfront and a rich maritime history. Many tourists visit this destination for its attractions like Presque Isle State Park, Waldameer Park, and the Erie Zoo. However, Erie also faces challenges with a stagnant economy, a decreasing population, and a harsh climate. Several residents are choosing to relocate from Erie to states like North Carolina, Georgia, or Tennessee for a change of pace and better weather. Reportedly, Erie saw a decrease of over 3,000 households in 2020, as per the U.S. Postal Service.

Scranton

Scranton ranks as the fifth-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 342nd-largest in the U.S. This place is where former President Joe Biden was born and where the popular sitcom “The Office” was set. This town has a rich history in coal mining and has since expanded into health care, education, and retail. However, Scranton faces challenges with significant debt, a poor credit rating, and a heavy tax burden. Several residents are relocating from Scranton to states like Virginia, Colorado, or Utah, which offer more stability and prosperity. Scranton saw a decrease of over 2,000 households in 2020, as reported by the U.S. Postal Service.

Easy to understand

Harrisburg ranks as the sixth-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 368th-largest in the U.S. This city is the capital of the state and the seat of Dauphin County. This city is a central location for government, transportation, and business, hosting significant employers like the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the Hershey Company, and the Pennsylvania State University. However, Harrisburg also encounters numerous challenges, including a high crime rate, a low graduation rate, and a high poverty rate. Several Harrisburg residents are relocating to states like South Carolina, Alabama, or Kentucky for better living conditions and lower costs. Reportedly, Harrisburg saw a decrease of more than 2,000 households in 2020, as per the U.S. Postal Service.

Perusing

Reading is the seventh-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 372nd-largest in the U.S. Found in Berks County, known for its picturesque landscapes and Amish settlements. This place is a hub of culture, entertainment, and education, featuring attractions like the Reading Public Museum, the Santander Arena, and Albright College. Reading also experiences a high unemployment rate, low median income, and high crime rate. Several residents are relocating from Reading to places like Lancaster, York, or Lebanon for better opportunities and security. In 2020, Reading experienced a decrease of over 2,000 households according to the U.S. Postal Service.

In conclusion

Pennsylvania offers numerous benefits, including a deep historical background, a variety of cultures, and beautiful scenery. However, the state also faces numerous challenges, including a high cost of living, slow wage growth, and unfavorable weather conditions. Many individuals are relocating from the state for a variety of reasons, including work, family, retirement, or lifestyle preferences. Here are the seven cities with the highest number of people leaving Pennsylvania in recent years. It is uncertain whether they will change this pattern or keep losing residents.