2025 Compare Cities Overview:
St. Marys, PA vs Lancaster, PA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Lancaster older or younger than people in St. Marys?
- The Median Age in Lancaster is 17.3 years younger than in St. Marys.

Are housing costs cheaper in Lancaster or St. Marys?
- Lancaster housing costs are 25.3% more expensive than St. Marys housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Lancaster or St. Marys?
- The average commute for residents of Lancaster is 6.7 minutes longer than it is for residents of St. Marys.

Things to do in St. Marys?
St. Marys, Pennsylvania is a vibrant small city located in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds. It offers visitors plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking trails, canoeing, and fishing. Not to mention the numerous parks and recreation areas nearby. The downtown area is full of locally-owned boutiques and eateries that offer unique experiences to all. Education is also taken very seriously here - there are public and private schools available for students of all ages. With its picturesque scenery and friendly locals, St Marys makes for an idyllic getaway any time of year!

Things to do in Lancaster?
Lancaster, Pennsylvania is a beautiful and vibrant city located in Lancaster County. Boasting an abundance of historical sites and attractions, including the Central Market, Wheatland Mansion, and F&M College Campus Museum, Lancaster is a great destination for those looking to explore its rich heritage. From hiking trails and recreational activities to museums and galleries, there's something for everyone in Lancaster. Visitors can also enjoy fine dining experiences, unique shopping opportunities, and plenty of entertainment options. With its charming atmosphere and vibrant culture, it's no wonder that so many people choose Lancaster as their home or vacation spot.

 St. Marys, PALancaster, PAUnited States
 Population  Unlock58,034329,725,481
 Median Income$57,746  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$136,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time14.47  Unlock26.38
Reviews for St. Marys    4 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

The population continues to decline in St. Marys. The Census Bureau came out with their latest numbers and the population continues to decline. In 2011 it was at  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

This place is full of nothing but old people and rednecks. They have no idea what the rest of the world is like because they are very isolated geographically and  More

   |    Reply

St. Marys, and the whole Elk County area are a textbook example of the term "Brain Drain." Ever since the mid to late 90's, most of the youth that went away to college  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of St. Marys

Reviews for Lancaster    14 Reviews

Lancaster is really nice in some parts, but it seems like the further away you get from downtown the worse it gets. I grew up around Saint Joseph and manor and saw  More

   |    Reply

I was there last weekend and was extremely favorably impressed. The only hesitation, and question, I have about the place is the high crime rate. It is hard to tell from  More

   |    Reply

Over 11 years ago

Lancaster is the nation's oldest inland city located in central PA amid Amish farmlands. Walkable and soon to be bike friendly, it offers a variety of great restaurants  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Lancaster


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.