One of America’s original 13 colonies, Pennsylvania is a state rich in both history and progress. Its flourishing economy, first-class transportation system, low crime rate, appealing cost of living and excellent schools make for a quality of life that has led to much residential growth over the years. Known as the “Hall of Independence,” because the Declaration of Independence signing occurred here as well as the “Keystone State,” for its central location among the other original colonies, Pennsylvania played an integral part in the birth of our country and continues to display the qualities it was founded on.
      Pennsylvania claims nearly 45,000 square miles of America’s lush northeastern region. The state has two coastal areas, one along Lake Erie and another stretching along the Delaware Estuary. The majestic Appalachian Mountain range rambles diagonally from the southwestern part of the state to the northeast. Northwest of the ridge is the Allegheny Plateau, which is rich in fossil fuels that help to support Pennsylvania’s economy. Residents of Pennsylvania enjoy four distinct seasons, acres of deciduous forest and green rolling hills and valleys.
      Comprised of urban and primarily rural areas, those relocating can choose from city, suburban or country living in a variety of communities. Metropolitan cities such as Philadelphia and Pittsburgh offer a wealth of cultural and entertainment facilities, close proximity to popular employment districts and schools. Smaller towns such as Atloona and Scranton feature close knit, family-friendly neighborhoods in addition to homes with plenty of acreage and wooded areas.

Did You Know...

State Nickname: The Keystone State State Capital: Harrisburg State Flower: Mountain Laurel State Bird: Ruffed Grouse

The median home value is at least $30,000 less than the national average. In Pittsburgh, for example, the average is $92,600. Many other areas are even lower such as $86,200 in Erie and $76,700 in Altoona. Farmland, town homes and everything in between is also available. The Pennsylvania Dutch region in the southern part of the state is home to the Old Order Amish and the Old Order Mennonites among other sects who live a fascinating lifestyle and produce beautiful hand-hen wood, leather and other household crafts. This area is also a popular tourist destination.

Pennsylvania’s estimated 12,429,616 residents are known for their hardworking and friendly demeanor. According to the World Bank, World Development Indicators in 2005, Pennsylvania is the 17th largest economy in the world, with a gross domestic product over $450 billion. Some of the prominent industries include advanced manufacturing, biosciences, technology and business services.
      Commonwealth programs provide the capital necessary for growth and innovation, whether a company is a start-up or a second stage manufacturer. Pennsylvania’s first-class transportation system, tourism and our top notch educational institutions also provide much of the state’s monetary support. Companies such as Merck, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Olympus America and Comcast Corporation have located their headquarters in this state. Additionally, the Port of Philadelphia is one of the largest seaports in the U.S and fossil fuels have long been an important resource as it is the nation’s premier producer of natural gas.
      Boasting award-winning educational districts and the state with the third highest number of colleges and universities, Pennsylvania offers a wealth of education options. Three out of every four of Pennsylvania high school graduates go to college, a statistic that is well above the national average of 62 percent. The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine ranked 4th in nation and 4th as a top research school. US News and World Report rated the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania the #1 undergraduate business program in 2005. The Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon, located in Pittsburgh, consistently ranks among the top business schools in the world, including its latest ranking as 2nd in the world in 2004 by The Wall Street Journal.

Whether its ground, air or water, Pennsylvania has your transportation covered. A 120,000-mile highway system, 69 railroads, 134 public-use airports and ports in Philadelphia, Erie and Pittsburgh offer efficient access to the rest of the world.
      Visitors and residents alike take advantage of the state’s abundant cultural and recreational opportunities. Small towns host seasonal festivals and music, dance and theater performances are regularly attended in cities like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, world-class shopping, spas and museums entertain, pamper and educate, accommodating a wide array of interests. Nearly 20 million acres of forest and over 80,000 miles of pristine waterways make the state an outdoors enthusiast’s paradise. River rafting, fishing, camping, hiking, mountain biking, and so many more activities are available in the seemingly endless natural surroundings of the Keystone state.
      With its beautiful landscape, low cost of living and high quality of life, people from all walks of life love calling the state of Pennsylvania home.