Moving to Pennsylvania: A Relocation Guide
Thinking about moving to Pennsylvania? Here's a practical starting point for newcomers.
Key facts
- Capital: Harrisburg
- Largest city: Philadelphia
- Population: 13,002,700 (2020 census)
- Nickname: The Keystone State
- Region: Northeast
What should you consider before moving to Pennsylvania?
- Where to live: Major cities include Philadelphia and the state capital Harrisburg. See our Pennsylvania state guide and city guides for details.
- Cost of living: Compare housing, utilities and taxes carefully — costs vary significantly across the state.
- Lifestyle: Pennsylvania's northeast location shapes daily life, from climate to recreation. Explore the top things to do to get a feel for the state.
- Jobs & schools: Research local employers and school districts in your target city before committing.
City guides: Harrisburg, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown.
Frequently asked questions
What are the largest cities in Pennsylvania?
The largest city in Pennsylvania is Philadelphia, and the capital is Harrisburg. See the city guides for local detail.
What is the population of Pennsylvania?
The 2020 census population of Pennsylvania is 13,002,700 (2020 census).
What should I research before moving to Pennsylvania?
Compare housing, utilities, taxes, jobs and school districts in your target city. The moving guide above and the Pennsylvania state guide are a good starting point — verify current costs with local sources.
Next steps
This guide is a starting point — Red Rock Daily is building detailed, city-level relocation coverage across the country. For now, combine this overview with the Pennsylvania state guide and local city pages.
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (2020 census population figures); official state records. Cost-of-living details should be verified with current local data.