Pennsylvania is one of America’s most historic states. It is an agricultural and industrial center, a state that produces much of our nation’s coal and steel. Pennsylvania is a heavily populated state, home to almost 13 million. While much of Pennsylvania’s population is packed into the Eastern end of the state, with Philadelphia and other cities along the border with New York, there is much more to Pennsylvania than just the Eastern edges.
Western Pennsylvania is a region with a lot to offer. There are numerous incredible cities and towns that make for great places to live, and many are taking note. The pandemic has led people to evaluate what they look for in homes and cities, with many packing their bags and heading out. According to the Washington Post, a whopping one in seven residents of the D.C area moved during the pandemic. People are seeking more spacious, nature-oriented environments with cheaper costs of living. That is what Western Pennsylvania can provide.
There is a lot to do and see in Western Pennsylvania. It is a large area of the state with numerous great towns and cities attracting new residents by the day. Let’s look at five towns, areas, and cities in the Western part of the state that showcase why this region is so appealing.
Mars
Humans have landed on Mars! Whatever jokes you can make about this town, chances are, they’ve already made them. The town leans into their name by having a large flying sculpture in the town square and an annual festival called Mars Exploration Day. It is a quirky, charming little town home to roughly 1,400 residents. For a town so small, there’s much to do. The town has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, delicious farm-to-table eats, incredibly affordable real estate, and a tight-knit local community.
Ohiopyle
Ohiopyle is a small community. While some live in this area full-time, it is much more of a place to visit than a place to live. Ohiopyle represents all the gorgeous nature visitors can expect to find in Western Pennsylvania. It is a gateway into the Laurel Highlands and is an area with abundant natural beauty. It is a great area for boating, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, and more. It is the perfect place for adventure lovers and a must-visit for anyone who finds themselves in the Western Pennsylvania area.
Erie
Erie is one of Western Pennsylvania’s biggest cities, and it is the embodiment of why many are considering a move out to this area. Erie is located along the shores of the lake that it is named for, Lake Erie. It is a historical city that was an important port in the past. Known as the Gem City due to the water’s sapphire-like appearance, there is much to do in this city of roughly 100,000. The cultural attractions in Erie are top-notch, with museums, art galleries, and more. Its waterfront location makes it great for boaters, and with an affordable cost of living and ample outdoor space, it embodies the new ideal following the pandemic.
Butler
Butler is a small city north of Pittsburgh that is home to about 13,000. It is a quaint town with cheap homes and friendly locals. It has a low crime rate and access to great schools, making it a popular spot for families. Smithsonian Magazine ranked it as one of the 20 best small towns in America, and it is easy to see why. It is an appealing small-town worth visiting with abundant breweries that offer some classic Pennsylvania beers, great smaller dining options, and a walkable downtown lined with pleasant stores.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is Western Pennsylvania’s biggest city and the second biggest in the state. It is a major metropolitan area with an interesting history, waterfront location, and incredible attractions. Pittsburgh is home to some of the best museums in the country, including the Andy Warhol Museum, the Carnegie Museum of Art, and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. It also houses the Phipps Conservatory, a botanical garden on the National Register of Historic Places. With 446 bridges in the city, it has a unique look, and with delicious food and drink options and a surprisingly low cost of living, it is an attractive Western Pennsylvania hotspot.
