Pennsylvania is a state with a rich history, diverse culture, and scenic landscapes. But not everyone who lives there is happy with their situation. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Pennsylvania’s population decreased by about 38,000 (0.3%) from April 2020 to July 2021. Many people are leaving the state for various reasons, such as high taxes, low wages, poor weather, or lack of opportunities. Here are seven cities that have seen the most out-migration from Pennsylvania in recent years.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth-largest in the U.S. It is known for its historical landmarks, museums, sports teams, and cheesesteaks. But it is also one of the most expensive cities to live in, with a high cost of living, housing, and taxes. The city has a high crime rate, traffic congestion, and pollution. Many residents are leaving Philadelphia for nearby suburbs or other states, such as Delaware, New Jersey, or Maryland. According to the U.S. Postal Service, Philadelphia lost over 27,000 households in 2020.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is the second-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 66th-largest in the U.S. It is a former industrial hub that has transformed into a modern metropolis with a vibrant arts, culture, and education scene. It is home to prestigious universities, such as Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh, and renowned museums, such as the Andy Warhol Museum and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. But Pittsburgh also faces many challenges, such as a declining population, an aging workforce, a shrinking tax base, and a high poverty rate. Many residents are leaving Pittsburgh for warmer and more prosperous states, such as Florida, Texas, or Arizona. According to the U.S. Postal Service, Pittsburgh lost over 9,000 households in 2020.

Allentown

Allentown is the third-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 233rd-largest in the U.S. It is the fastest-growing city in the state, thanks to its proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. It is a center of manufacturing, health care, and education, with major employers such as Air Products, Lehigh Valley Health Network, and Lehigh University. But Allentown also has a high unemployment rate, a low median income, and a high crime rate. Many residents are leaving Allentown for more affordable and safer places, such as Bethlehem, Easton, or Reading. According to the U.S. Postal Service, Allentown lost over 4,000 households in 2020.

Erie

Erie is the fourth-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 299th-largest in the U.S. It is located on the shores of Lake Erie, which gives it a scenic waterfront and a maritime heritage. It is a popular tourist destination, with attractions such as Presque Isle State Park, Waldameer Park, and the Erie Zoo. But Erie also suffers from a stagnant economy, a declining population, and a harsh climate. Many residents are leaving Erie for more dynamic and warmer states, such as North Carolina, Georgia, or Tennessee. According to the U.S. Postal Service, Erie lost over 3,000 households in 2020.

Scranton

Scranton is the fifth-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 342nd-largest in the U.S. It is the birthplace of former President Joe Biden and the setting of the popular sitcom “The Office”. It is a historic coal mining town that has diversified into health care, education, and retail. But Scranton also struggles with a high debt, a low credit rating, and a high tax burden. Many residents are leaving Scranton for more stable and prosperous states, such as Virginia, Colorado, or Utah. According to the U.S. Postal Service, Scranton lost over 2,000 households in 2020.

Harrisburg

Harrisburg is the sixth-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 368th-largest in the U.S. It is the capital of the state and the seat of Dauphin County. It is a hub of government, transportation, and commerce, with major employers such as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the Hershey Company, and the Pennsylvania State University. But Harrisburg also faces many problems, such as a high crime rate, a low graduation rate, and a high poverty rate. Many residents are leaving Harrisburg for more livable and affordable states, such as South Carolina, Alabama, or Kentucky. According to the U.S. Postal Service, Harrisburg lost over 2,000 households in 2020.

Reading

Reading is the seventh-largest city in Pennsylvania and the 372nd-largest in the U.S. It is located in the scenic Berks County, which is known for its agricultural and Amish communities. It is a center of culture, entertainment, and education, with attractions such as the Reading Public Museum, the Santander Arena, and the Albright College. But Reading also has a high unemployment rate, a low median income, and a high crime rate. Many residents are leaving Reading for more opportunity and security, such as Lancaster, York, or Lebanon. According to the U.S. Postal Service, Reading lost over 2,000 households in 2020.

Conclusion

Pennsylvania is a state with many advantages, such as a rich history, a diverse culture, and a scenic landscape. But it is also a state with many challenges, such as a high cost of living, a low wage growth, and a poor weather. Many people are leaving the state for various reasons, such as work, family, retirement, or lifestyle. These are the seven cities that have seen the most out-migration from Pennsylvania in recent years. Whether they will reverse this trend or continue to lose residents remains to be seen.

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