An increasing number of New York City residents are trading sky-high rents and taxes for a more affordable lifestyle in an unexpected location: Allentown, Pennsylvania. Tucked into the state's Lehigh Valley, this historic town is attracting a wave of Big Apple émigrés drawn by its combination of small-town charm, excellent schools, and significantly lower cost of living, all while remaining within easy reach of Manhattan.
The Allure of Affordability and Accessibility
Local realtor Bob Dandi highlights the compelling financial argument. "You're not even two hours away from New York and you're paying less than half of New York's taxes," he explained. The housing market offers stark contrast: the median home price in Allentown sits around $300,000, a sum that typically secures a decent-sized three-bedroom property. For those needing to reach NYC, the commute has been streamlined. Many residents drive to New Jersey train stations, and a direct bus service runs to the Port Authority from Allentown, with modern coaches offering comfortable seats and reliable Wi-Fi.
The rise of hybrid working models has made the move even more feasible. "Many people here who work in New York are able to work some days remotely, making it easier to live here and work there if you only do the commute once or twice a week," Dandi noted. This shift has helped transform Allentown from a faded industrial hub, famously referenced in Billy Joel’s song, into a vibrant commuter destination.
More Than Just a Bedroom Community
Allentown and the surrounding Lehigh Valley—encompassing Bethlehem and Easton—offer far more than just a place to sleep. The area boasts a rich cultural and recreational scene that negates the need for constant trips to the city. The Allentown Art Museum, with free admission, houses over 17,000 works, including a Rembrandt portrait. The historic SteelStacks complex, on the site of the former Bethlehem Steel plant, hosts over 1,000 concerts annually alongside films and festivals.
For families and thrill-seekers, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom features eight rollercoasters, including the massive Steel Force. Sports fans can cheer on the Lehigh Valley IronPigs baseball team at Coca-Cola Park. The downtown area is packed with diverse and affordable restaurants, theatres, and shops, while the seasonal Allentown Farmers Market offers international delicacies.
A Rich History and a Bright Future
Allentown holds a unique place in American history. During the British occupation of Philadelphia in 1777, the Liberty Bell was secretly transported and hidden under the floor of Zion Reformed Church in Allentown to prevent it from being melted down for ammunition. Today, the town is writing a new chapter.
From high-speed indoor go-karting at Lehigh Valley Grand Prix to the automotive history showcased at the America on Wheels Museum, there is no shortage of activities. As Bob Dandi summarises, "You're getting culture and diversity but you don't have to pay New York prices... You really get everything here." With its blend of space, affordability, and amenities, Allentown presents a compelling alternative for those priced out of the New York metro area, proving that a high quality of life doesn't require a Manhattan postcode.
