Unfortunately, some Pennsylvania towns didn’t get the memo.
Where the locals are friendly, but the amenities are few, and the healthcare is something out of a Dickens novel.
Here’s our list of 20 towns that might make you reconsider how low your standards really are.
Table of Contents
1. Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Johnstown is known for its rich history, including the famous 1889 flood. The town has a population that is slowly decreasing, which affects local businesses and services. Despite its historical charm, Johnstown faces challenges like economic decline and limited healthcare facilities.
Residents experience harsh winters and the cost of living is relatively high compared to the average pensions. The town also struggles with public transportation, making it difficult for retirees without personal vehicles.
Reason for Ranking: High living costs and inadequate medical facilities make it less ideal for retirees.
2. Chester, Pennsylvania
Chester, located near Philadelphia, has a vibrant history and cultural significance. However, it struggles with high crime rates and poverty, which can be concerning for retirees looking for a safe, peaceful place to settle.
The city has limited recreational activities suitable for seniors, and the healthcare services available are overwhelmed due to the high demand and low funding.
Reason for Ranking: Safety concerns and poor healthcare infrastructure contribute to its placement on this list.
3. McKeesport, Pennsylvania
McKeesport is another town with a great past but a challenging present. Once a booming steel town, it now faces significant economic and social decline. The local economy has not recovered well from the loss of the steel industry, impacting job opportunities and community services.
For retirees, the town offers few amenities and social activities that cater to their lifestyle. Additionally, public health data indicates lower-than-average life expectancy rates.
Reason for Ranking: Economic challenges and limited senior-friendly amenities make McKeesport less appealing for retirement.
4. Reading, Pennsylvania
Reading is famous for the Reading Railroad, but today it’s one of the poorest cities in the country. The city faces high unemployment rates, which affect the local economy and community spirit.
Though it has some cultural institutions, they are not enough to attract retirees looking for a dynamic and active retirement. Public services are underfunded, and the city has a high crime rate.
Reason for Ranking: Economic struggles and a high crime rate make Reading a challenging place for retirees.
5. Pottstown, Pennsylvania
Pottstown offers a historical downtown area and several parks, but it faces challenges that put it on this list. The town struggles with high property taxes and an education system that does not attract young families, impacting community vitality.
Healthcare options in Pottstown are limited, with seniors often needing to travel to nearby cities for better care. This can be a significant inconvenience for those who do not drive.
Reason for Ranking: High taxes and limited healthcare services are major drawbacks for retirees.
6. York, Pennsylvania
York is rich in history and architecture, but it faces modern challenges. The city has a high crime rate, particularly in areas close to the downtown core. This can deter retirees seeking a peaceful environment.
The local economy is improving but still lags behind in providing adequate senior services and healthcare facilities. Public transport is not fully accessible, making mobility a challenge for seniors.
Reason for Ranking: Crime and insufficient senior services make York less desirable for retirees.
7. Ambridge, Pennsylvania
Ambridge is a small town with a once-thriving steel industry. Today, it struggles to attract new businesses and residents. The town lacks modern healthcare facilities and senior living communities, which are crucial for retirees.
The community is tight-knit but does not offer many activities for seniors. Public transportation options are sparse, which can limit mobility for those who rely on it.
Reason for Ranking: Lack of healthcare facilities and senior amenities places Ambridge on this list.
8. Shamokin, Pennsylvania
Shamokin has beautiful landscapes but suffers from economic stagnation. The town has limited job opportunities, which affects community services and overall livability. There’s a lack of investment in areas like public infrastructure and healthcare, which are important for retirees.
The town also experiences a high poverty rate, which impacts the quality of life for its residents. Recreational activities suitable for seniors are minimal.
Reason for Ranking: Economic difficulties and a lack of suitable living conditions for seniors contribute to its ranking.
9. DuBois, Pennsylvania
DuBois offers access to natural beauty and outdoor activities, but it has downsides that affect retirees. The town has a higher-than-average cost of living, especially in healthcare and housing. This can stretch retirement budgets thin.
The local economy is centered around a few industries, which does not provide much diversity in terms of services and amenities. Seniors may find it difficult to access specialized healthcare services.
Reason for Ranking: High living costs and limited economic diversity make DuBois challenging for retirees.
10. Oil City, Pennsylvania
Oil City is named for its oil-rich history but today faces challenges like a declining population and aging infrastructure. The city has been unable to attract significant new investment, which impacts local services and amenities.
While the cost of living is low, so is the quality of available healthcare, which is a significant concern for retirees. The town also lacks cultural and recreational activities that appeal to seniors.
Reason for Ranking: Poor infrastructure and inadequate healthcare options make Oil City less attractive to retirees.
11. Norristown, Pennsylvania
Norristown has a rich history and is close to Philadelphia, but it struggles with high crime rates and a lack of public services. The town has made efforts to revitalize its downtown area, but these have not yet significantly improved the overall living conditions.
Senior citizens might find the healthcare facilities insufficient and the public transportation system lacking, which can affect their quality of life and mobility.
Reason for Ranking: Safety concerns and limited healthcare facilities make Norristown a less ideal choice for retirees.
12. Aliquippa, Pennsylvania
Aliquippa is known for its steel industry past. Today, the town faces economic hardships and a high unemployment rate, which affect the quality of life and community services. There is a lack of recreational and social activities for seniors.
The town’s infrastructure is aging, and investment in public amenities is low, leaving little to attract retirees seeking a vibrant community life.
Reason for Ranking: Economic decline and poor community infrastructure place Aliquippa on this list.
13. Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton, the setting of the popular TV show “The Office,” has historical charm but faces modern challenges. It has a higher-than-average property tax rate and struggles with budget deficits, which impact public services including those for seniors.
The city’s winter weather can be harsh, making it difficult for retirees who prefer a milder climate and better outdoor activities year-round.
Reason for Ranking: High taxes and harsh winters make Scranton less appealing for retirement living.
14. New Castle, Pennsylvania
New Castle’s historic architecture and annual festivals are charming, but the city has a high crime rate and economic issues. The lack of investment in health and wellness facilities for seniors is a significant concern.
Retirees might find the social scene lacking and the healthcare options insufficient for their needs, limiting its appeal as a retirement destination.
Reason for Ranking: Safety concerns and insufficient healthcare amenities make New Castle a challenging place for retirees.
15. Brownsville, Pennsylvania
Brownsville is a small town with historical significance, located along the Monongahela River. However, it has been experiencing a population decline, which affects local businesses and services negatively.
The town lacks modern healthcare facilities and has limited options for active retirees, making it less attractive for those looking for a fulfilling retirement.
Reason for Ranking: Declining population and lack of adequate healthcare services contribute to its placement on this list.
16. Farrell, Pennsylvania
Farrell is known for its steel mill history but today, it faces challenges with population decline and economic stagnation. The town offers few amenities and activities that cater to the interests and needs of retirees.
Public services are minimal, and the healthcare options available are not up to the standards expected by seniors, impacting the overall attractiveness for retirees.
Reason for Ranking: Limited amenities and poor healthcare services make Farrell less desirable for retirees.
17. Hazleton, Pennsylvania
Hazleton has seen some growth in recent years but still struggles with issues like crime and a lack of quality healthcare. The town is trying to revitalize its image, but it still faces challenges in creating an environment that is attractive to retirees.
Its location and climate are not as favorable compared to other parts of Pennsylvania, which could be a deterrent for some retirees.
Reason for Ranking: Crime and insufficient healthcare facilities make Hazleton a less ideal place for retirees.
18. Indiana, Pennsylvania
Home to Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana is a college town that offers some cultural benefits but may not meet the needs of retirees looking for peace and quiet. The town has a vibrant student population, which can mean more noise and activity than some retirees might prefer.
The healthcare services, while adequate, may be more oriented towards younger people, not addressing the specific needs of the elderly.
Reason for Ranking: The college town atmosphere and less focused senior healthcare services make Indiana less suitable for retirees.
19. Uniontown, Pennsylvania
Uniontown has historical landmarks and is surrounded by the beauty of the Laurel Highlands. However, it has a stagnant economy and limited job opportunities, which affect the vibrancy and sustainability of the community.
The town also lacks modern healthcare facilities and recreational options that cater specifically to retirees, making it less appealing for those seeking a dynamic retirement.
Reason for Ranking: Economic challenges and a lack of senior-specific amenities place Uniontown on this list.
20. Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Wilkes-Barre offers scenic views along the Susquehanna River but struggles with high crime rates and an aging infrastructure. The city is working to improve its image and attract more businesses, but these efforts have yet to significantly enhance the quality of life for retirees.
Public services are stretched thin, and the healthcare system is under pressure, which can be a major concern for seniors looking for reliable medical care.
Reason for Ranking: Safety issues and inadequate public services make Wilkes-Barre a less desirable retirement destination.