Moving to Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, otherwise known as ‘The Keystone State’, is a enjoyable state to work and live. If you are moving or relocating to PA, we have compiled a comprehensive list of some important facts and useful information to help make your move an easy transition.

As one of the original 13 colonies, Pennsylvania was admitted to the union on March 5, 1778. Since then, PA has grown in to a booming place to live. Rich in colonial history, Pennsylvania offers many landmarks that will satisfy any history buff.

Geography

Located in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the country, Pennsylvania is bordered by Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Ohio and West Virginia. With a total land area of over 46,055.24 Square Miles, it comes in as the 17th smallest state.

Population

Currently, the population of PA is 12,784,227 making it the 6th most populated state in the union and the 11th most densely populated. The state capital, Harrisburg, has a population of 48950. which is the 11th smallest capital in the country.

Notable Pennsylvanians

Pennsylvania is home to many famous and some infamous citizens such as, Edward Goodrich Acheson a notable inventor is from Washington and Louisa May Alcott a memorable author is from Germantown. Others include people like Maxwell Anderson a playwright and Samuel Barber a composer .

Climate

Pennsylvania has a diverse landscape, which includes mountains, agricultural regions, and large metropolitan areas. The Appalachian Mountains cut across the center of the state, with the Piedmont and Coastal Plain to the east and the Allegheny Plateau and Lake Erie lowlands to the west. The state is bordered by Lake Erie to the northwest and the Delaware River and Delaware Estuary to the east. The state’s climate is heavily influenced by several geographic features. The Atlantic Ocean has a moderating effect on the coastal areas, while Lake Erie moderates the northwestern part of the state. During much of the year, the prevailing westerly flow brings air masses from the North American interior across the entire region, with occasional episodes of bitter cold during winter. The polar jet stream, which is often located near or over the region during winter, brings frequent storm systems which cause cloudy skies, windy conditions, and precipitation. Pennsylvania is affected by a number of extreme weather events, including floods, tropical cyclones, heat and cold waves, severe thunderstorms, snow and ice storms, and nor’easters.

Crime Statistics

Safety and security should always be an important consideration when moving to a new area. A state’s crime rate affects more than just the safety of its citizens, it drastically affects property value, economics and the overall quality of life. Based on the last FBI Crime Statistics, Pennsylvania’s violent crime rate is 31 per 10k residents which is less than the national average of 37.3. In addition, the state’s property crime rate is 193per 10k residents which is less than the national average of 248.7.

Pennsylvania ranks #28 in the US for violent crime and #40 for property crime.

Schools & Education

Whether you are a student, have children, or neither, a state’s educational system is not only important to those attending, it’s vital to the overall quality of life, culture and economics of the state. Based on data from multiple public and private sources, we were able to rank Pennsylvania’s educational system.

Overall Grade: B-

Pennsylvania spends on average $14394.00 per pupil, which is greater than the national average ($11,900). PA ranks #8 in the US compared to the rest of the country. While PA ranks #8 in spending, the latest graduation rate is 84.80%%.

Another important factor is the percentage of families that enroll their young children (ages 3-4) in an accredited pre-school program. Pennsylvania ranks #25 with over 45.00% of children attending a early educational program.

Taxes

The current income tax rate for Pennsylvania is 6.97% which ranks 33rd favorable amongst other states. If you are purchasing property, you may want to consider the the property tax burden rate. This is the amount you pay in taxes per $1000 earned. PA’s rate is $29.97 which ranks 30th in the US.

Currently, PA sales tax is $16.98 for which it comes in as 11th compared to other states.

Sports

Pennsylvania fans are not only loyal but also very faithful to their local major league teams. Pennsylvania is home to the following teams: the Philadelphia 76ers, the Philadelphia Eagles, the Philadelphia Flyers, the Philadelphia Phillies, the Philadelphia Union, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and the Pittsburgh Steelers .

Utility Companies

Before you move to Pennsylvania, it’s advised that you know who your utility companies are. We have an extensive list of both public and private utility companies in PA.

Other Resources

For more information about moving to Pennsylvania, visit their website at http://www.state.pa.us/