Bethlehem
Welcome to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as "Christmas City USA." This historic community combines preserved colonial architecture with contemporary living options. The city's downtown showcases 18th-century Moravian buildings alongside newer residential developments and retail districts. One-bedroom apartments currently average $1,634 monthly, with a 3.9% year-over-year increase. Housing options range from historic row houses in the Central Historic District to apartments near Lehigh University's South Mountain campus. Notable areas include the SouthSide district with its thriving arts scene, the historic North Side, and the West Side in Lehigh County. Bethlehem's heritage as a colonial Moravian settlement and former steel-manufacturing center shapes its present-day character. The SteelStacks arts campus, constructed on the former Bethlehem Steel site, hosts community events throughout the year, including Musikfest. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore 39 park sites across 568 acres, with paths along Monocacy Creek and the Lehigh River. The city is home to both Lehigh University and Moravian University, while the Wind Creek Bethlehem resort adds to the entertainment landscape. The city's Christmas connection dates to 1747 when residents displayed America's first decorated Christmas tree, establishing a holiday tradition that continues today.
Allentown
Allentown sits at the center of Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley, holding the distinction of being the state's third-largest city and a place where history runs deep. During the Revolutionary War, the Liberty Bell was secretly sheltered here at Zion Reformed Church, a detail that captures how long this city has been part of something larger. Today, Allentown draws renters with a working downtown anchored by PPL Center and Miller Symphony Hall, while neighborhoods like the West End, Old Allentown Historic District, and the Hamilton District each carry a distinct character. Muhlenberg College and Cedar Crest College add an academic presence that shapes the city's cultural energy year-round. The Great Allentown Fair, held at the Fairgrounds since 1852, remains one of the region's most enduring annual traditions. Healthcare and technology are significant economic drivers, with Lehigh Valley Hospital serving as one of the area's largest employers. Renters will find a solid mix of restored rowhouses, apartment communities in converted historic buildings, and newer downtown units. The range of options and comparatively accessible price points make Allentown a practical choice for those wanting proximity to Philadelphia and New York without the cost of living in either.
