Photo Credit: Pixabay
Moving. Simplified.
You’ve heard of Harrisburg. It’s the capital of Pennsylvania. But that’s not why people move here. People come because Harrisburg makes sense. You get the perks of a big city—jobs, schools, healthcare—without the chaos or cost. The city provides a sweet spot between affordability and opportunity.
Located along the Susquehanna River, Harrisburg lies at the center of the state—literally and economically. It’s part of the Harrisburg-Carlisle metro area, and within driving distance of Philadelphia, Baltimore, and DC.
But this isn’t about the map; it’s about what life feels like. The city has a slower pace, lower taxes, and safer streets. Whether you're moving with a family or on your own, Harrisburg gives you breathing room. Are you thinking of calling it home?
This guide has everything you need to make a clear decision—from housing and cost of living to schools, jobs, and safety.
Harrisburg offers a balance between convenience and livability. The city is large enough to stay active yet small enough to feel manageable. Riverfront paths, seasonal festivals, and a community-oriented atmosphere add charm without overwhelm. Daily life remains affordable, practical, and steady, which is why many residents choose to stay long-term.
Harrisburg is more affordable than the national average. Housing, utilities, and transportation costs are reasonable, and the cost of living index sits below the US benchmark. The city’s median home price and rental rates make it an appealing choice for those seeking affordability without sacrificing urban convenience.
Harrisburg has a population of about 50,092 residents. The median age is 32.8, reflecting a younger population than the national average. The community is diverse, with a strong representation of Black and Hispanic residents. Household sizes are slightly below national norms, and married couples make up fewer than one-quarter of households.
Harrisburg is compact and accessible, meaning streets are less congested and travel times are short. The average one-way commute time in Harrisburg is 20.6 minutes—considerably lower than the US average of 26.4 minutes.
If you want to know the commuting pattern of residents, here are the latest stats:
Harrisburg experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The city averages more rainfall than the national average and receives moderate snowfall. Cloud cover is common, but the region still enjoys close to 200 sunny days a year.
Here are a few additional weather facts:
Harrisburg keeps living simple and affordable without giving up access to real opportunity. The city offers manageable housing costs, a solid location near major highways, and everyday convenience that makes life easier. You get the benefits of a capital city with a slower pace and a realistic cost of living.
Since you’re considering moving to Harrisburg, here are the key reasons people choose to relocate to the city:
The pros and cons of living in Harrisburg aren’t the same for everyone. What may feel like a benefit to some could be a drawback to others.
Here are the key pros and cons of moving to Harrisburg.
It is natural to search for the best neighborhoods when relocating to Harrisburg. We have researched several areas and compiled a list of the top neighborhoods to fit different lifestyles.
Below, you’ll find our ranking based on average rental costs and home values to help guide your decision.
| Rank | Neighborhood | Average Home Rental | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Uptown | $1,292 | $341,533 |
| 2 | SoMa | $1,225 | $259,733 |
| 3 | Downtown | $1,368 | $259,733 |
| 4 | East Harrisburg | $1,269 | $211,089 |
| 5 | Midtown | $1,222 | $211,089 |
| 6 | Riverside | $1,200 | $211,089 |
| 7 | Shipoke | $1,395 | $259,733 |
| 8 | Capitol Heights | $1,400 | $259,733 |
| 9 | Engleton | $1,182 | $259,733 |
| 10 | South Alison Hill | $1,232 | $109,865 |
Are you moving to Harrisburg? Here’s what your budget could look like. The city’s overall cost of living is about 10% lower than the national average and 5% below Pennsylvania’s average. Groceries come in slightly cheaper, and housing is notably more affordable. Healthcare and transportation follow suit. But utilities can run a little higher. Here's a side-by-side snapshot to guide your planning.
| Living Expense | Harrisburg | Pennsylvania | US National Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall expense | 89.8 | 95.0 | 100 |
| Grocery expense | 97.2 | 100 | 100 |
| Health | 101.1 | 94 | 100 |
| Housing | 64.5 | 91 | 100 |
| Median home cost | $130,500 | $242,800 | $338,100 |
| Utilities | 102.4 | 106 | 100 |
| Transportation | 104.0 | 105 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 128.1 | 99 | 100 |
If you are relocating to Harrisburg for job reasons, you have reasons to smile. The city’s job market is steady and offers a fair number of opportunities. The state government is a major employer here, followed closely by healthcare, logistics, education, and manufacturing. However, the workforce is not limited to these sectors. There is a broad mix of jobs across industries. Listed are a few job-related facts in Harrisburg that may benefit you.
| Employment Information | Harrisburg | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Income per Capita | $37,638 | $37,638 |
| Household Income | $69,021 | $69,021 |
| Unemployment Rate | 6.8% | 4.1% |
| Recent Job Growth | -5.1% | -1.0% |
| Future Job Growth | 12.44% | 33.51% |
Compare upto 6 Moving Quotes and save upto 65% on Your Move.
Start My Quote NowAs local industries expand, Harrisburg offers many opportunities for growing careers. The job scene here is diverse—health, technology, and engineering roles are gaining momentum. You’ll find steady demand and solid salaries in reliable sectors. Below is a list of the top 10 fastest-growing jobs in Harrisburg.
| Rank | Job Title | % Growth | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nurse Practitioner | 43.2% | $129,210 |
| 2 | Information Security Analyst | 36.4% | $124,910 |
| 3 | Software Developer | 26.5% | $112,590 |
| 4 | Web Developer | 26.3% | $81,030 |
| 5 | Computer Systems Analyst | 15.9% | $91,290 |
| 6 | Industrial Engineer | 16.0% | $80,880 |
| 7 | Database Architect | 18.8% | $125,770 |
| 8 | Mechanical Engineer | 13.4% | $83,980 |
| 9 | Network & Computer Systems Admin | 4.8% | $60,625 |
| 10 | Occupational Therapy Assistant | 22.0% | $68,340 |
If you are moving to Harrisburg and care about strong career potential, it helps to know where the best-paying roles are. Tech and engineering jobs here offer more than solid incomes—they give room to grow. Whether you are starting or leveling up, these positions can help you build a life with stability and purpose.
| Rank | Job Title | Average Salary | Entry-Level Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Big Data Engineer | $148,805 | $135,259 |
| 2 | Data Engineer | $129,350 | $116,175 |
| 3 | Engineering Manager | $142,226 | $85,000 |
| 4 | Software Engineer | $124,361 | $113,783 |
| 5 | Database Administrator | $83,020 | $61,000 |
| 6 | Industrial Engineer | $85,250 | $70,000 |
| 7 | Information Security Analyst | $87,630 | $70,000 |
| 8 | Operations Research Analyst | $74,740 | $55,000 |
| 9 | Occupational Health & Safety Specialist | $74,470 | $50,000 |
| 10 | Computer Programmer | $84,000 | $60,000 |
Harrisburg is one of the key economic hubs in central Pennsylvania. If you are relocating here for work, knowing which sectors are driving the city’s economy can help you make an informed decision. The following industries have shown strong and steady growth across the region and offer a range of employment opportunities.
If you are planning a move to Harrisburg and want a workplace that values people, you’re in luck. The city is home to employers known for treating staff well and creating room to grow. Whether you are in tech, healthcare, or communications, these companies have built solid reputations for a reason.
If you’re weighing a move to Harrisburg, it helps to know what income looks like here. Your paycheck shapes so many decisions—rent, groceries, savings, peace of mind. Whether you are stepping into a new job or planning a career change, these numbers will help you see what life might realistically cost. Here are a few informative points related to the average salary and income in Harrisburg:
Harrisburg’s housing market stays within reach for many buyers. The average home value is $130,500, and prices have increased 3.5% over the past year. Homes tend to sell quickly, often going under contract in about six days. Rental options remain steady, with nearly 29% of residents renting their homes. Housing demand is growing, though the market still feels accessible and balanced.
Compare upto 6 Moving Quotes and save upto 65% on Your Move.
Start My Quote NowIf you're planning a move to Harrisburg, knowing the rental costs can help set realistic expectations. Prices can vary based on location, unit size, and included amenities. While the city remains more affordable than many metro areas, some parts see a faster rise in rates. Here’s a breakdown based on current listings.
If you are planning to settle down in Harrisburg, it helps to know how taxes will shape your everyday budget. From your paycheck to your grocery bill to your home’s property tax—these numbers carry real weight. They’re more than percentages. They affect what you keep and what you spend. Here are a few key tax figures in Harrisburg.
Harrisburg has the perfect combination of history, nature, family fun, and local flavor that connects with locals and newcomers alike. You’ll find enriching experiences, from riverside strolls to immersive museums. These top attractions reflect what makes this city welcoming, memorable, and easy to explore without distractions. Here are the top 10 things to do in Harrisburg.
Walk through the majestic Capitol and marvel at intricate artwork, Italian Renaissance architecture, and stunning interior chambers.
Explore an impressive collection chronicling both sides of America’s defining conflict, offering deep educational insight.
Discover exhibits on archaeology, natural history, and Pennsylvania’s cultural heritage all under one roof.
Spend an afternoon enjoying baseball games, mini golf, boat rides, and scenic river views right in the heart of the city.
Stroll boardwalks across wetlands, forests, and lakes—perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and bird watchers.
Tour this historic landmark and experience eighteenth-century life in the oldest surviving structure in Harrisburg.
Wander one of the oldest continuously operating markets in the U.S., filled with local food, flavors, and culture.
Bike, walk, or kayak along the Susquehanna River with peaceful views and relaxing open space.
Enjoy interactive science exhibits, live performances, and immersive films in the downtown arts district.
Hike former trolley paths that connect into a 20-mile urban trail system circling the city.
Safety in Harrisburg can feel like a mixed bag. While the city has charm and history, some neighborhoods report crime levels that raise concerns. If you are relocating, knowing the numbers helps you make confident choices. These figures don’t tell the whole story of daily life, but they offer a good place to start. To help you understand crime rates in Harrisburg, here are a few key facts.
Inquiring about the best educational institutes in Harrisburg before relocating is pretty essential. We have compiled the following list of schools and colleges to help you make an informed decision.
Ben Franklin Elementary
600 Reily St, Harrisburg, PA 17102 | Enrollment: 400 students
Downey Elementary
1401 S 28th St, Harrisburg, PA 17103 | Enrollment: 350 students
Foose Elementary
700 Susquehanna St, Harrisburg, PA 17104 | Enrollment: 300 students
Lincoln Elementary
308 N 19th St, Harrisburg, PA 17103 | Enrollment: 320 students
Melrose Elementary
551 S 19th St, Harrisburg, PA 17104 | Enrollment: 280 students
Camp Curtin Academy
2900 N 6th St, Harrisburg, PA 17110 | Enrollment: 470 students
Marshall Math Science Academy
301 Hale Ave, Harrisburg, PA 17104 | Enrollment: 380 students
Rowland Academy
1842 Derry St, Harrisburg, PA 17104 | Enrollment: 577 students
Cougar Academy at Hamilton
1601 State St, Harrisburg, PA 17103 | Enrollment: 322 students
Swatara Middle School
1101 Highland St, Harrisburg, PA 17113 | Enrollment: 644 students
Harrisburg High School (John Harris Campus)
1601 State St, Harrisburg, PA 17103 | Enrollment: 1,333 students
Harrisburg High School (SciTech Campus)
1601 State St, Harrisburg, PA 17103 | Enrollment: 1,335 students
Central Dauphin High School
437 Piketown Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112 | Enrollment: 1,998 students
Central Dauphin East High School
626 Rutherford Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17109 | Enrollment: 1,596 students
Susquehanna Township High School
3550 Elmerton Ave, Harrisburg, PA 17109 | Enrollment: 743 students
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology
Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC)
Widener University Commonwealth Law School
Which help you to make a Convenient Move
MoverJunction.com
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza
Ashburn, VA 20147
888-901-4841
