Pennsylvania nabs six spots on “best places to retire” list

Six Pennsylvania cities were named to the U.S. News and World Report’s 100 Best Places to Retire in the USA.

Lancaster, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Allentown, Harrisburg and Scranton all made the list, ranking from second to 52nd.

Lancaster was named second, just after Sarasota. Lancaster scored highly for its quality of life, value and job market. Housing prices fall below the national median, and living expenses are on par with other similarly-sized cities. Sixteen percent of the population is older than 65.

Pittsburgh was eighth, nabbing points for its value, job market, desirability and quality of life. Housing is cheaper than the national average, but the market in the area is hot, according to local Realtors®. While Pittsburgh has a diverse age demographic, 18 percent of locals are 65 and older.

Philadelphia found itself in 19^th place, thanks to its high job market, desirability and value. The housing market is comparable to other metros on the East Coast, and the city offers a wide variety of transportation options, from SEPTA to the Philadelphia Airport. The average age is 38, but 14.2 percent of residents are 65 and older.

Allentown found itself in 25^th place. Allentown scored well on its quality of life, job market and value. Housing costs fall below the national average, but so do salaries. The average resident is a baby boomer, but 16.3 percent are 65 and older.

Harrisburg landed in 38^th place. The capital scores high on its quality of life and value, as well as all the outdoors activity and walkability. Housing costs are below the national median additionally. While the majority of residents are baby boomers, seniors 65 and older represent more than 15 percent of the population.

Scranton was named 52^nd, thanks to its quality of life and value. Housing costs are below the national average, and other living expenses are below the cost of larger metros. Residents aged 65 and older make up nearly one-fifth of the population.