Allentown, PA
Allentown is a mid-sized city located in eastern Pennsylvania, with a population of approximately 121,000 residents. The city is known for its rich history, dating back to its founding in the early 18th century, and for its location in the heart of the Lehigh Valley region. Allentown has a diverse economy, with major employers in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and logistics. The city is home to numerous cultural attractions, including the Allentown Art Museum, the PPL Center arena, and the America on Wheels museum. Allentown also offers easy access to outdoor recreation opportunities, including nearby parks, hiking trails, and waterways. Overall, Allentown is a welcoming and vibrant community with a rich history and a promising future.
STATISTICS
INDICATORS
Region
Northeast
Population (2020)
125,971
The chart below displays this city's performance across all indicators vs. averages for the 25 cities
% Non-White Population
47
Median Income (2020)
$43,816
Average Home Value (2022)
$253,284
Average Annual Cost of Living
$17,964
Housing, transportation and energy costs as a percent of median income
Averages
City Data
CHALLENGES
Poverty: Allentown has a poverty rate of around 25%, which is higher than the state and national averages.
Crime: Allentown has a higher crime rate than many other cities in Pennsylvania, including higher rates of violent crime and property crime.
Education: While Allentown is home to several colleges and universities, the city's public schools face significant challenges, including low graduation rates and high levels of poverty among students.
Infrastructure: Allentown's infrastructure, including roads and bridges, is aging and in need of repair, which can be a significant burden on the city's budget.
Economic inequality: While Allentown has seen significant economic development in recent years, there is still a significant gap between the city's wealthiest residents and those living in poverty, which can contribute to social and economic disparities.
BRIGHT SPOTS
Economic Development: Allentown has seen significant economic development in recent years, including the opening of a new hockey arena and entertainment complex, PPL Center, as well as the revitalization of its downtown area.
Cultural attractions: Allentown has a rich history and a number of cultural attractions, including the Allentown Art Museum, the Da Vinci Science Center, and the Allentown Symphony Orchestra.
Education: Allentown is home to a number of colleges and universities, including Muhlenberg College, Cedar Crest College, and the Allentown campus of Penn State University.
Outdoor recreation: Allentown has several parks and outdoor recreational areas, including the Lehigh Canal Park, Trexler Memorial Park, and the Lehigh Parkway.
Access to major cities: Allentown is located near several major cities, including Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington, D.C., which provides residents with opportunities for employment, entertainment, and travel.