What to know when moving to Middletown, PA
Middletown at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with a median household income of $70,536 and 31.8% of residents renting.
- The Major Draw:
- Close proximity to Hersheypark, a popular attraction with a 4.5-star rating from over 66,000 reviews.
- The Reality Check:
- A poverty rate of 10.5% may signal some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0.6% of residents use public transit for their daily commute.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $1,122 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Middletown has a diverse population of 23,143, with 26.6% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The area features a significant number of renters, making up 31.8% of the housing market. While the median household income is relatively strong at $70,536, you might notice the 10.5% poverty rate, which could reflect some economic diversity in the community.
Probably not your spot if you prefer a high percentage of public transit users, as just 0.6% of residents commute this way.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,122, which makes it relatively affordable compared to many urban areas.
- The median home value sits at $187,300, providing a decent entry point for homebuyers.
- Approximately 31.8% of residents are renters, indicating a mix of rental and ownership opportunities.
- The community has a 10.5% poverty rate, which may influence housing affordability.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Pennsylvania has seen a decrease in crime rates over recent years, with the violent crime rate at 228.5 per 100,000 residents in 2025, marking a 28.4% drop since 2022. Property crime is recorded at 1,363.9 per 100,000, which is 11.8% lower than the national average.
- Violent crime: 228.5 per 100k vs. national average of 325.3, down 28.4% since 2022
- Property crime: 1,363.9 per 100k vs. national average of 1,546.9, down 15.4% since 2022
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 55% since 2022, currently at 4.2 per 100k.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Pennsylvania).
Schools & Higher Ed
Middletown has access to a total of 9 postsecondary institutions within the region, providing diverse educational opportunities for residents. Notable options include:
- Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg
- Harrisburg Area Community College
- Harrisburg University of Science and Technology
- Elizabethtown College
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, residents can enjoy nearby outdoor attractions such as:
- Hersheypark - 4.5 stars from 66,728 reviews
- Fort Hunter Mansion and Park - 4.7 stars from 1,820 reviews
- Indian Echo Caverns - 4.6 stars from 4,110 reviews
- The National Civil War Museum - 4.7 stars from 1,755 reviews
Source: Google Places API (New).