Did you know that Pennsylvania is home to the first-ever computer? It is a state of innovations and many first in the US. If you are planning to call Pennsylvania your home, we know that you are making the right decision as it truly has a lot to offer. We have created this useful guide about moving to Pennsylvania with all you need to know so that the relocation goes smoothly.
Weather
Weather in Pennsylvania can be unpredictable. The warmest period of the year is in June, with temperatures reaching 70 degrees. On the other hand, January comes with plenty of snow and with an average temperature of 28 degrees. You will be happy to learn that there are over 179 days of sunshine in this state. All four seasons are present, with plenty of rainfall, snow, and humidity. However, there is a low risk of tornadoes, hurricanes, heavy floods, or earthquakes.
Public transport
Do you drive a car or want to navigate the state by public transport? If you don’t have a car, don’t worry, SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) will get you where you need to go. It operates subway, trolleys, and buses at a wide range of places. It is an affordable, safe, and efficient way to reach your destination.
Visit the most famous sites in Pennsylvania
With a plethora of historic landmarks, there is no shortage of sites you should visit in Pennsylvania.
- Independence National Historical Park – Located in Philadelphia, it is a place where the Declaration of Independence was signed. While you are here, visit the Ben Franklin Museum, Old City Hall, as well as the National Museum of American Jewish History.
- Hershey Park – The park is located in Hershey and it is an ideal place to spend a day or a few days with your family. It has a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, a carousel, and even a zoo with over 200 animals.
- Presque Isle State Park – It has 11 miles of beach, which means you would be able to enjoy swimming and all other outdoor summer activities. Kite-flying is the best in this area due to the open space. There are often free public concerts organized.
- The Liberty Bell – An iconic symbol of independence, located in Philadelphia, was commissioned in 1751 by the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly and was cast with the lettering Proclaim Liberty.
Pennsylvania is close to NYC
It is not a secret that NYC is among the most expensive cities in the US. The city that never sleeps is welcoming and appealing, but living there can simply be too much. If you want to avoid congestion in traffic, an expensive lifestyle, and high rents, living in Pennsylvania is the right decision. On the other hand, since it is close to NYC, you would be able to quickly arrive in NYC for a great weekend of exploring the city.
Excellent education
Pennsylvania ranks really well when it comes to both public and private education. Furthermore, it has over 500 public school districts, and 14 state-owned colleges and universities. So, if you are moving to Pennsylvania for education, we are certain that it is a step in the right direction.
Low cost of living and low-income tax
One of the benefits of moving to Pennsylvania is the low cost of living. Namely, you would spend 10,5% less in this state, than elsewhere. Groceries, gas, healthcare, and transportation cost less here and you will be able to save more money or afford a bigger house, for example.
Furthermore, Pennsylvania has a low-income tax which is only 3,07%. This is the state with one of the lowest income taxes in the US. Apart from this, retirees don’t have to pay for their retirement income. This makes Pennsylvania a perfect country to retire in.
Pennsylvania has a low crime rate
With a property crime 33,3% lower than the national average, Pennsylvania is a safe country. There are even cities with 0 reported violent crimes, and it is common that there are less than five crimes per one thousand people. Crime rate should be among the first features of a certain neighborhood and city that you look for, as living in a safe neighborhood means a stress-free life. And this state boasts of safe cities with crime rates going lower and lower with each passing year.
Hire movers when moving to Pennsylvania
Moving to Pennsylvania has plenty of benefits, and we are certain you will enjoy your life there. If you find that moving is too stressful and organizing a relocation comes with too many tasks, make it easy on yourself and hire reliable movers. An experienced moving and storage service will pack, store, and transport your belongings in no time. This leaves you with enough free time to coordinate your relocation and manage your first days in a new state. Relocation is never easy, but with the right team on your side, you may even enjoy it.
Don’t forget to change your address and mail before moving to Pennsylvania
Change your address at the DMV in Pennsylvania right after the relocation. Notify your friends and family members of your new address as well. Cancel any magazine subscriptions that you have or redirect them to your new address if possible. Inform your bank about the change as well, and check whether you need to open a new bank account in Pennsylvania.
Change your driver’s license
When you move to Pennsylvania, if you are a driver you need to register your driver’s license within 60 days of relocation. You can do this in person by heading over to the PennDOT driver’s license center. Once you do this, your new driver’s license will be valid for four years.
Set up utilities
Choose your new water, gas, and electricity providers when you move to Pennsylvania, or even before that. You don’t want to relocate and arrive at your new home, just to realize that you don’t have any running water or electricity.
Summary
Moving to Pennsylvania does not have to be stressful. So, plan everything well in advance, so that you don’t need to hurry and feel anxious. Find a reliable local moving company and enjoy your stress-free relocation. Good luck!