What to know when moving to State College, PA
TL;DR: State College at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated area where 66.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 56.3% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to Pennsylvania State University, a major institution located just a short distance away.
- The Reality Check:
- A poverty rate of 28.1% means some residents may struggle with living costs.
- Commute:
- 7.4% of residents use public transit for their commute.
- Top Tip:
- Median rent is $1,221, so budget accordingly if you plan to rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
State College has a population of about 42,153, with a median household income of $62,821. The area is characterized by its high education rate, with 66.6% of residents holding at least a bachelor's degree. However, the community also faces challenges, as indicated by a poverty rate of 28.1%. The renter population is significant at 56.3%, pointing to a dynamic rental market.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for an area with lower living costs, as the high poverty rate might indicate financial strains for some residents.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,221, which can be a significant factor in your budget.
- Median home value stands at $400,400, reflecting a competitive housing market.
- The area has a high education level, with 66.6% of residents holding a bachelor's degree.
- The poverty rate is 28.1%, suggesting economic challenges for some households.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Pennsylvania's crime trends show a decline in both violent and property crime rates, making it safer compared to national averages.
- Violent crime: 228.5 per 100k, down 28.4% from 2022.
- Property crime: 1,363.9 per 100k, down 15.4% from 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate decreased by 55% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Pennsylvania).
Schools & Higher Ed
Access to higher education is robust in the area, with several institutions nearby.
- Postsecondary institutions: 4
- With College Scorecard data: 4
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is the most notable institution in the vicinity.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES + College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, State College offers several nearby parks and outdoor spaces for recreation.
- Black Moshannon State Park - 4.7 stars (1,388 reviews)
- Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation - 4.4 stars (925 reviews)
- Tom Tudek Memorial Park - 4.8 stars (750 reviews)
- Greenwood Furnace State Park - 4.7 stars (716 reviews)
- Whipple Dam State Park - 4.6 stars (551 reviews)
Source: Google Places API.
