Erie, PA


28 Reviews



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Erie, PA

About Erie, PA

Erie, Pennsylvania is an amazing city located in northwestern Pennsylvania. It's known for its scenic Lake Erie shoreline, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can take advantage of outdoor activities like exploring Presque Isle State Park or hiking at Gull Point to explore the local area. History buffs can visit places like Fort Le Boeuf Museum or Bicentennial Tower to gain insight into local history. After exploring, sample delicious food from restaurants like Rice n Noodles or The Brewerie At Union Station. With so much to offer, Erie is a great place to visit for an unforgettable experience! Moderate-size metro area set in the lake coast and rolling hills of the Mideast region. Primary industries include manufacturing and healthcare. Noteworthy features include shoreline. - Situated in northwest Pennsylvania, along Lake Erie, 95 miles east of Cleveland, Ohio, and 120 miles west of Buffalo, New York..

Location Details

State: Pennsylvania
County: Erie County
Metro Area: Erie Metro Area
City: Erie
Zip Codes: 16510 16503 16508 16504 16502 16507 16501 16546
Cost of Living: -19.2% lower
Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Elevation: 653 ft above sea level
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Dig Deeper on Erie

The Erie, PA metro area sits in the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania, hugging the shores of Lake Erie. This spot is steeped in history, having grown from its early days as a hub for trade and transportation to becoming a major player in manufacturing and shipping during the 19th century. Today, while it still honors its industrial roots, Erie is more than just factories and railroads.

Geographically speaking, Erie boasts a lovely setting by the lake, with beaches that call for summer picnics and boat outings. The landscape around the city is a mix of rolling hills and fertile farmland, offering a peaceful countryside vibe. Winters here can be quite snowy, thanks to the lake-effect snow, making it a wonderland for those who enjoy colder weather activities.

The local economy has seen shifts over the years. Manufacturing, once the backbone of Erie's prosperity, has given way to a more diversified scene. Today, healthcare, education, and tourism are significant players, providing jobs and driving growth. The presence of colleges and medical centers adds to the area's economic stability.

Politically, Erie is something of a chameleon, historically swinging between Democratic and Republican preferences. It's known as a bellwether area, reflecting broader state and national trends in various elections. This mix of political views contributes to an engaged and dynamic community discourse.

Life in Erie offers a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. The city itself has a lively downtown with shops, eateries, and cultural spots, while the surrounding areas offer ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. Festivals, community events, and recreational activities abound, ensuring there's always something happening.

For newcomers, it's good to know that Erie's cost of living is relatively low, making it an appealing choice for families and individuals alike. However, be ready for the winters; the snow can pile up, thanks to the lake-effect, but it also turns the area into a picturesque winter scene. Embracing the outdoors, regardless of the season, will help you make the most of what Erie has to offer.

Lastly, diving into the community spirit is a must. Erie residents take pride in their city, and there's a strong sense of belonging among locals. Whether it's through attending local events, supporting local businesses, or simply getting to know your neighbors, becoming part of the community is key to enjoying life in this part of Pennsylvania.

Erie Cost of Living
$$$$

Low home cost, shoreline, and low humidity make Erie a great place to live.

$159,600
-111.8% lower than avg
$40,201
-71.7% lower than avg
$950 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
-50.5% lower than avg
Erie Crime
38.3 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Erie, Pennsylvania
$30,600
for a family
$29,600
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Erie
   Low home cost
Isolated
   Shoreline
Gloomy weather
   Low humidity
Harsh winters
Reviews for Erie
    See all (28)

Erie is a hidden gem with something for everyone. Presque isle state park draws about as many visitors as Yellowstone and more than My. Rushmore. Outdoors are covered  More

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K · Erie, PA
Over 2 years ago

I've lived in Erie for 13 years. PROS: - Presque Isle - Shopping options on Peach Street - Great fishing - The Otters and SeaWolves - Decent food scene - 3  More

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Over 6 years ago

I've lived in numerous cities and towns around the country and traveled to countless others. Erie, PA remains, surprisingly, my favorite place to live, work and play.  More

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