Living & Working in Harrisburg
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $145,000 . Buying analysis suggests lower long-term costs compared to renting.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
Midtown
URBANUptown
SUBURBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Harrisburg, PA
- Derry Township School District (Hershey) - Ranked #1 in Dauphin County by Niche.
- Camp Hill School District - Highly rated for academics and extracurriculars.
- Hershey High School - Recognized by U.S. News as one of the best in the area.
---
Childcare Costs in Harrisburg, PA
- Daycare: Approximately $2,236/month for full-time care (130 hours), according to Care.com.
- Nanny: Rates average $688/week (40 hours), translating to roughly $2,752/month.
---
Recommended Pediatricians and Family Clinics
- Family Practice Center, PC - Offers comprehensive care for families. Website.
- **Penn State Health Medical Group - Nyes Road Family
Work-Life Balance Culture
Harrisburg offers a balanced work-life culture, with many employers promoting flexible schedules and remote work options. The city's proximity to nature and recreational areas contributes to a relaxed atmosphere, though downtown areas can be busier during work hours. State government jobs dominate the employment landscape, providing stable hours.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- Planet Fitness: Located at 3501 Paxton St, membership starts at $10/month.
- Capital BlueCross Connect: Offers fitness classes and wellness programs at 1500 N 2nd St, with memberships around $30/month.
- Parks & Trails:
- Riverfront Park: A 5-mile trail along the Susquehanna River, ideal for walking and biking.
- Wildwood Park: Features 6 miles of trails and a nature center.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: Average $10–$15 at casual spots like The Brick Haus (sandwiches) or Rubicon (salads).
- Dinner: $20–$35 per entrée at mid-range restaurants like Cork & Fork or Bricco.
- Drinks: Craft beers cost $6–$8 at Zeroday Brewing Co., cocktails $10–$12 at Sturges Speakeasy.
Annual Events and Festivals
-
Financial Facts for Harrisburg, PA
- State Income Tax Rate: Pennsylvania levies a flat personal income tax rate of 3.07% on taxable income for residents and non-residents. This rate is consistent across the state, including Harrisburg. Source: PA Department of Revenue.
- Property Tax Average: The average property tax rate in Pennsylvania is 1.41%, higher than the national average. In Harrisburg, property taxes vary by municipality but generally align with the state average. Source: SmartAsset.
- Cost of Living Comparison: Harrisburg's cost of living is approximately 20% lower than Philadelphia, based on 2023 data. Housing costs in here are significantly more affordable, contributing to this disparity. Source: PA Rural Living.
- Growing Industries Creating Jobs: Key industries driving job growth in Harrisburg include manufacturing, healthcare, and government services. Recent initiatives, such as the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) loans, have spurred business expansion and job creation.