7 of 10 Best Retirement Cities in the Country are in Pennsylvania

Top Cities for Retirement in Pennsylvania

Are you searching for the best places to retire in the United States? Pennsylvania tops the charts! In a recent report from U.S. News & World Report, seven of the top ten cities for retirement nationwide are located in Pennsylvania.

2024’s Top Retirement Destinations

The report identifies the cities of Harrisburg, Reading, Lancaster, Scranton, and Allentown as the top five U.S. retirement destinations for 2024. Other cities in the top ten include New York City, York, Daytona Beach, Youngstown, and Pittsburgh.

What Makes Pennsylvania a Top Choice for Retirees?

According to Beverly Harzog, a U.S. News personal finance expert, several factors contribute to Pennsylvania’s high ranking among retirees. These include affordability, happiness, quality of healthcare, retiree taxes, desirability, and job market ratings. The cost of living, particularly relating to housing, plays a significant role in deciding retirement locations, especially in an era of record-high interest rates.

Pittsburgh: A Growing Tech Hub

Pittsburgh, recognized for its affordable housing market and burgeoning tech scene, is also on the list. With median home prices at $203,150, it’s more budget-friendly than many other large U.S. cities. As U.S. News & World Report notes, Pittsburgh’s quality of life keeps improving as new industries establish their roots there.

Harrisburg: Proximity to Nature and Affordability

Finally, the report highlights Harrisburg, PA for its combination of outdoor attractions, affordable housing, and a cost of living significantly lower than larger East Coast metro areas. With the Appalachian Trail, state parks, and forests nearby, it’s an attractive option for nature-loving retirees.