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Allentown,PA Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Map

Discovering the Charm: Best Neighborhoods in Allentown, PA

Allentown, PA, is a city full of character, blending rich history with vibrant modern life. Whether you’re moving in or just exploring, the city’s neighborhoods each have their own unique vibe and appeal. From the bustling downtown district to the quieter residential areas, the best neighborhoods in Allentown offer something for everyone. If you’re curious about where to start, an Allentown neighborhoods map can be a handy tool to get a sense of layout and proximity to key spots like parks, schools, and shops.

Demographic Insights & Community Composition

Allentown is known for its diverse population, with neighborhoods reflecting a blend of cultures and backgrounds. Areas like West End are home to a strong Hispanic community, bringing lively festivals and authentic eateries to the scene. Meanwhile, the Center City neighborhood attracts young professionals and students, especially with the presence of institutions like Cedar Crest College and Muhlenberg College nearby. This mix of residents creates a welcoming environment where community events and local markets thrive, making it easy to feel connected no matter where you live.

Housing, Affordability & Market Conditions

The housing market in Allentown offers a variety of options, from charming historic homes in neighborhoods like Old Allentown to newer developments on the city’s outskirts. Affordability is a major draw here, with many areas providing excellent value compared to other cities in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re looking for a cozy starter home, a rental apartment, or a spacious family house, the best neighborhoods in Allentown tend to have competitive prices and steady market conditions, making it an attractive place for both buyers and renters.

Crime, Safety & Neighborhood Stability

Like many cities, Allentown has areas with varying levels of safety, but many neighborhoods are actively improving thanks to community initiatives and increased local engagement. Neighborhoods such as Wescosville and South Allentown have seen positive trends in crime reduction, contributing to a greater sense of stability for residents. Checking an Allentown neighborhoods map alongside local crime statistics can help prospective residents make informed decisions about where to settle. Overall, many parts of the city are family-friendly and community-oriented, creating safe spaces to live and grow.

Things to Do: What are Some Popular Attractions and Things to Do

Allentown’s neighborhoods are brimming with attractions and activities that cater to all interests. In Center City, you’ll find the Allentown Art Museum and a lively restaurant scene featuring everything from cozy cafes to upscale dining. Families love visiting the Allentown Fairgrounds for seasonal events, while outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the trails at Trexler Nature Preserve just a short drive away. Local farmers’ markets, craft breweries, and theaters also add to the city’s vibrant cultural fabric, making it easy to find something fun to do close to home.

What Are Some Things People Might Not Know About These Neighborhoods?

Many people don’t realize that Allentown’s neighborhoods have hidden gems that go beyond the usual tourist spots. For instance, the West End is home to unique murals and street art that celebrate the city’s industrial past and cultural diversity. The historic district boasts beautifully preserved architecture dating back to the 19th century, offering a glimpse into Allentown’s evolution. Plus, many neighborhoods host community gardens, local book clubs, and pop-up events that foster a strong sense of belonging among residents. Exploring an Allentown neighborhoods map can reveal these lesser-known treasures that truly capture the city’s spirit.

Allentown Demographics

Population 125,292
Density (People/sqml.) 7,133
Median Age 32.4
Married Couples
38%
38% of the population of Allentown aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
28%
28% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

Best Neighborhoods

Hood  Med. Age  Have Kids  Home Price  Med. Income  Affordability 
Jordan Creek-NOTI 29 37.2% $130,863 $49,636 2.4
Alton Park 54.8 12.8% $248,500 $96,540 2.5
Little Lehigh 45.9 17.9% $166,667 $69,872 2.5
6th Ward 29.7 42.7% $137,867 $60,497 2.6
Mountainville 37.7 31.5% $179,309 $67,735 2.6
Dutch Hill 40.4 20.4% $165,320 $59,524 2.8
Overlook Park 34.6 33.7% $145,380 $61,109 2.8
1st Ward 30.5 31.2% $130,467 $48,214 2.8
Fairview 36.5 16.7% $168,833 $50,787 2.9
Jordan Heights-Old Fairgrounds 27.3 36.2% $106,100 $39,388 2.9

Allentown neighborhoods bring their own blend of lifestyle, affordability, and long-term appeal, and the data in the table above helps highlight what makes each area stand out. By comparing home prices, median income, average age, families with kids, and housing affordability ratios, you can quickly uncover the best neighborhoods in Allentown—those that balance cost, character, and overall livability. For budget-minded buyers, the table also makes it easy to identify the most affordable neighborhoods in Allentown, where lower home prices combined with local income levels create meaningful value. Families can use the children-per-household data to pinpoint the best neighborhoods for families, revealing which areas offer strong community connections and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, adults looking for quieter, age-friendly surroundings can turn to neighborhoods with higher median ages to find the best neighborhoods for retirees, where comfort, stability, and an easy pace of living tend to define the local experience. This data-driven overview offers a clear starting point for understanding how each neighborhood aligns with the lifestyle you want.

Crime in Allentown

Violent Crime 24% Lower than Nat. Avg.
Property Crime 11% Lower than Nat. Avg.
Total Crime 13% Lower than Nat. Avg.
Crime
 
Reported
 
Allentown
/100k
PA
/100k
National
/100k
Murder 4 3.2 5.0 5.0
Rape 33 26.5 27.8 37.5
Robbery 71 57.0 51.4 60.6
Assault 231 185.4 161.4 256.1
Total Violent Crime 339 272 246 359
Burglary 151 121.2 116.7 229.2
Theft 1,560 1,252.0 1,129.8 1,272.1
Vehicle Theft 244 195.8 188.5 258.8
Total Property Crime 1,955 1,569 1,435 1,760
TOTAL CRIME 2,294 1,841 1,681 2,119

Historical Crime Data

Date & Last Updated: This data reflects the 2024 calendar year and was released from the FBI in September, 2025; this is the most current data available.