What BestPlaces Users Say about Erie
Erie, Pennsylvania is a city located in the northwestern part of the state, on the shore of Lake Erie. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and industrial economy. The city has a population of approximately 96,000 people and offers a lower cost of living compared to other cities in Pennsylvania.
"Erie is a great place to live! The cost of living is very affordable and there's always something to do. The beaches are beautiful and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy." - Sarah H.
"I've lived in Erie for over 20 years and I love it. The people here are friendly and the sense of community is strong. There are also great schools and job opportunities." - John D.
"I've lived in Erie for a few years now and it's been a mixed experience. On one hand, the city has a lot of charm and character, and the cost of living is reasonable. On the other hand, there are some rough areas and the job market can be tough. It's important to do your research before moving here." - Jennifer T.
"I've been living in Erie for a year now and it's been a great experience. The city has a lot of cultural events and the food scene is amazing. The winters can be tough, but overall, it's a great place to call home." - Mark S.
based on 28 ReviewsGet to know Erie with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Erie
Erie, PA - 7/15/2011
If you've never been here, it's a great place to visit. Be aware, it's a mini-city. Not too big, not too small. Good employment options, many nice people, on a wonderful lake, a wide range of excellent education options and an amazing cost of living. We have plenty of restaurants, shopping, gambling, and activities. A great mix of people and very accessible to many other areas you may want to visit such as Niagara Falls, Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Buffalo. I am happy that I moved here and until I get tired of experiencing all the season's, I intend to
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Erie could be the death of me! - 2/6/2011
I am typing in complete darkness. Thanks for the understanding.
My family moved to Erie 5years ago. The first 2 years were filled with fun and adventure. Previously we had lived in the subs of Chicago (loved it there)As with many people,my husbands work required the relocation. Anywhoo the first 2 years were great, from an adventure stand point. Slowly but surly,as time progressed...what was repeatedly ignored,started to take a toll on every member of my family.
This town, Erie PA, from what I understand was once a steel megatropolis. So I can only imagine at one time it might have been a town worthy of ????
The quality of life here can not be measured, as there is none. People are so rude, unfriendly and brass here, I no longer leave my home, but for quick trips to the local grocer and Walmart to pick up essentials. We would be considered in the top 1-2% income, and will no longer spend my money in this town as the only businesses that seem to survive here are
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Employment...the Poor...Goverment...Medical...Clim - 12/28/2010
Erie is another tragic example of a post-industrial, Great Lakes city. Gone are Hammermill Paper, Zurn Industries, Erie Forge and Steel, American Sterilizer and others. Good-paying, family-sustaining manufacturing jobs have been replaced by low paying, minimum wage restaurant and retail positions. Over twenty economic development groups seem unable to attract major employers to the area yet local politicos constantly urge citizens to re-train and re-educate themselves for non-existent jobs.
25% percent of the city's population live in poverty. Vacant and blighted properties are located everywhere. An edition of ABC's "Extreme Makeover, Home Edition" highlighted the desperate conditions of families living in and around the project home. The Second Harvest Food Bank is always looking for donations and has no shortage of hungry individuals.
Local government is supplemented via grants and awards from the state and federal governments. City tax revenues
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weather - 6/24/2010
It's often been said not to plant your flowers before Memorial Day because of possible frost. Nowhere else is it more true than in Erie, Pa. I have been to the peninsula on Memorial weekend & froze. I have had cookouts where it's been 85 or so degrees. The weather is definately different every year. The summers (which last 3-4 months)can be hot & dry or cold & wet. Fall can come early or late along with the snow. We can get snow the middle of October or 80 degress. The coldest months are usually January, February & March. It is definately an area of four
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Erie - A Great Place to Be - 9/7/2008
If you are looking for a place with culture and recreation amidst a small town feel then Erie is the place for you. From our Arts and Jazz Festivals to our one-of-a-kind Presque Isle State park you will find many opportunities to explore culture and nature. Our sunsets are ranked in the top 10 and can be enjoyed year round. Our beaches provide an escape that singles, couples and families can enjoy. Culturally diverse and conveniently located between Buffalo, Cleveland and Pittsburgh, Erie is a great place to settle. I invite you to check it out, but be warned - it will grown on
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Winter - 3/31/2008
lake effect snow and very cold in the winter. actually more windy than the 'windy city'
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The Ups and Downs - 3/14/2008
Erie's climate is nothing but ups and downs. Take this winter for example. We had harsh (and I mean harsh) ice storms and high snowfalls one day, yet 2 days later it was so warm out, that most of the snow was already melting away and I had to turn off my heat. It is constantly like this! Even in the summer. I know one thing. Almost nobody likes the instability of Erie's
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jobs and something new - 1/8/2008
erie is fine but does not have a whole lot of jobs or events for all sorts of people.just need a better cultural
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Erie/Millcreek/Harborcreek are great placed based - 9/25/2007
What are the factors that influence happiness and quality of life? These are the major components that most educated people cite (Phds, professors, ect), affordable housing, good public schools, peace of mind, a balanced standard of living, broad opportunities for adult education, reasonable traffic, commute, healthcare, recreation and political/social environment and natural environment.
Erie has very affordable housing, a good public school system (especially in the burbs, OK in the city), you won’t have to worry about making you next mortgage payment, being robbed, murdered or raped, a great state school system that is very reasonably priced (Penn State Main Campus and affiliated regional schools), a low unemployment rate and NO traffic problems or commute times. There are two major hospitals (hammot and st. v) with top notch doctors and facilities, plenty of golf courses, an amusement park and public beach access.
The obvious downside is the
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Hard Times - 1/4/2007
The city of Erie has experienced a string of hard times the last few years. Many companies have moved out of the area or gone out of business leaving thousands without jobs. Almost all of the jobs lost were skilled manufacturing jobs, unfortunately the city has been unable to attract any new manufacturers into the area. THe local governments will tell you the future looks bright but most of the jobs being created lately are low-paying service oriented jobs. Many people have left the area to find jobs in other
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