Largest cities in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 12.8 million, it ranks as the 5th most populated state in the U.S. Pennsylvania has experienced stable population growth, driven by its robust economy and appealing living conditions. Bordered by New York to the north, New Jersey to the east, Delaware and Maryland to the southeast, West Virginia to the southwest, and Ohio to the west, Pennsylvania offers a variety of urban and rural living environments across its roughly 2,560 cities and towns.

Living in Pennsylvania provides numerous benefits, including access to world-class education, a strong job market, and a rich cultural scene. The state's moderate population density allows for vibrant community life and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Pennsylvania's economy is diverse, with strengths in manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. The state's stable population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Pennsylvania, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers a comprehensive overview of Pennsylvania cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Philadelphia Population: 1,581,531 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 348 KM² Density (sq mi): 11,771 Med. Household Income: $49,127

Living in Philadelphia, PA, known as 'The City of Brotherly Love,' offers a rich historical and cultural experience that is both unique and appealing. Located in southeastern Pennsylvania, Philadelphia is a large city known for its significant role in American history. Major nearby cities like New York and Washington, D.C., enhance its status as a central hub in the Mid-Atlantic region. Philadelphia's blend of historical significance and modern amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Pittsburgh Population: 301,286 Livability Score: 84

Area Size: 143 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,441 Med. Household Income: $50,536

Pittsburgh, PA, known as 'The Steel City,' offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and modern urban amenities. Located in western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Cleveland and Philadelphia enhance its status as a central point in the region. Pittsburgh's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Allentown Population: 121,156 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 45 KM² Density (sq mi): 6,898 Med. Household Income: $43,816

Allentown, Pennsylvania, known as "The Queen City," is a historic and vibrant community located in the Lehigh Valley. With its rich industrial heritage, diverse population, and revitalized downtown area, Allentown offers a unique blend of history and modernity. The city's commitment to growth and development makes living in Allentown an attractive choice.

Erie Population: 96,616 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 50 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,047 Med. Household Income: $38,655

Erie, PA, known as 'The Gem City,' offers a unique blend of lakeside charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Erie County, Erie is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Cleveland (102 miles) and Buffalo (95 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Erie's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Reading Population: 88,333 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 26 KM² Density (sq mi): 8,974 Med. Household Income: $35,745

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Scranton Population: 76,997 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 66 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,042 Med. Household Income: $41,687

Scranton, PA - A Historic City with Proximity to New York and Philadelphia"; echo "

Bethlehem Population: 75,571 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 49 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,953 Med. Household Income: $56,034

Lancaster Population: 59,321 Livability Score: 84

Area Size: 19 KM² Density (sq mi): 8,208 Med. Household Income: $49,628

Levittown Population: 49,921 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 26 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,847 Med. Household Income: $85,364

Harrisburg Population: 49,247 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 21 KM² Density (sq mi): 6,066 Med. Household Income: $41,831

Full list of the largest cities in Pennsylvania

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Philadelphia	1,581,531	348	$49,127	76
2	Pittsburgh	301,286	143	$50,536	84
3	Allentown	121,156	45	$43,816	78
4	Erie	96,616	50	$38,655	82
5	Reading	88,333	26	$35,745	80
6	Scranton	76,997	66	$41,687	85
7	Bethlehem	75,571	49	$56,034	80
8	Lancaster	59,321	19	$49,628	84
9	Levittown	49,921	26	$85,364	71
10	Harrisburg	49,247	21	$41,831	85
11	York	44,019	14	$36,320	73
12	Altoona	43,669	25	$42,244	78
13	State College	42,100	12	$38,076	86
14	Wilkes-Barre	40,805	18	$40,505	78
15	Norristown	34,392	9	$54,409	82
16	Chester	33,855	13	$32,867	75
17	Bethel Park	32,310	30	$84,304	82
18	Williamsport	28,437	23	$41,190	73
19	Drexel Hill	27,925	8	$72,645	81
20	Monroeville	27,564	51	$70,634	75
21	Easton	27,274	11	$55,201	81
22	Plum	27,137	74	$82,704	66
23	Lebanon	25,779	11	$40,380	71
24	Hazleton	24,804	16	$38,010	65
25	Pottstown	22,633	13	$50,130	74
26	Allison Park	22,623	36	$83,333	73
27	King of Prussia	22,028	22	$97,349	87
28	New Castle	21,805	22	$35,117	79
29	Chambersburg	21,017	18	$46,924	74
30	West Chester	20,033	5	$62,092	81
31	West Mifflin	19,742	37	$54,474	77
32	Murrysville	19,692	95	$102,189	73
33	Baldwin	19,667	15	$68,705	79
34	Upper St. Clair	19,521	25	$110,417	75
35	Johnstown	19,381	15	$29,171	78
36	Carlisle	19,188	14	$49,557	76
37	McKeesport	19,128	13	$28,881	70
38	Phoenixville	16,961	9	$85,550	88
39	Lansdale	16,846	8	$70,931	85
40	Horsham	15,864	14	$85,684	78
41	Hanover	15,675	10	$52,094	74
42	Hermitage	15,603	76	$58,209	72
43	Colonial Park	15,457	12	$54,628	73
44	Fullerton	15,415	10	$66,225	78
45	Wilkinsburg	15,367	6	$37,649	77
46	Hershey	14,941	37	$61,948	75
47	Franklin Park	14,701	35	$141,045	65
48	Greensburg	14,239	11	$45,065	70
49	Weigelstown	14,156	15	$56,708	71
50	Bloomsburg	13,916	11	$41,035	80

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Pennsylvania, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.