Pennsylvania, often celebrated for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, is not immune to demographic challenges. While some areas of the state thrive, others are witnessing a steady decline in population. Several towns are facing economic stagnation, rising unemployment, inadequate public services, and other social factors that drive residents to seek greener pastures. This article will delve into the seven Pennsylvania towns that people are fleeing from in 2024, backed by data, trends, and local insights.
1. Johnstown
Population Decline and Economic Struggles
Johnstown, a city once known for its booming steel industry, has been grappling with economic decline for decades. The population has steadily decreased, dropping from over 63,000 in the 1920s to approximately 18,000 today. This dramatic decrease can be attributed to the collapse of the steel industry, which once provided thousands of jobs and drove local prosperity.
In 2024, Johnstown continues to experience high unemployment rates, with many former industrial workers unable to find comparable work. The lack of economic diversification has left the city dependent on a small service sector, which cannot sustain the population. As a result, many residents, especially the younger generation, are leaving in search of better job opportunities in Pittsburgh or other metropolitan areas.
Crime and Quality of Life
Johnstown’s crime rates are higher than the national average, particularly in violent crime. The city’s aging infrastructure, underfunded public services, and deteriorating housing stock further discourage people from staying. Johnstown faces significant challenges in revitalizing its economy and improving its appeal as a place to live.
2. McKeesport
Industrial Collapse and Job Losses
Located near Pittsburgh, McKeesport was once a thriving steel town. However, like many industrial towns in Pennsylvania, it has suffered due to the decline of steel manufacturing. At its peak, McKeesport was home to nearly 55,000 people; today, fewer than 18,000 residents remain.
The collapse of the steel industry left McKeesport with a shrinking job market and rising unemployment. The economic downturn has resulted in a significant out-migration, with residents leaving for Pittsburgh or even out-of-state in search of better economic prospects.
Crime and Community Challenges
McKeesport struggles with high crime rates, particularly in terms of violent crime, which is a major concern for its residents. The town’s infrastructure is crumbling, and many public schools are underfunded and overcrowded. As a result, families are fleeing to more stable suburban communities, further accelerating the population decline.
3. Altoona
Shrinking Population and Economic Stagnation
Altoona, once a thriving railroad hub, has experienced a steady population decline. The city’s population, which peaked at over 80,000 in the 1950s, has fallen to around 43,000 in 2024. The decline in the railroad industry has had a lasting impact on Altoona’s economy, leading to job losses and economic stagnation.
The lack of economic opportunities, combined with a shrinking tax base, has strained local public services, including schools and healthcare facilities. Younger residents are moving to larger cities like Harrisburg and Pittsburgh in search of better job prospects, further reducing the town’s vitality.
Healthcare and Education Concerns
Healthcare access in Altoona is increasingly limited, with many hospitals and clinics struggling to meet demand. Educational opportunities are also limited, as public schools are underfunded and higher education institutions are scarce. These factors have contributed to an outward migration, as families seek better opportunities elsewhere.
4. Scranton
Economic Decline and Population Stagnation
Scranton, once the heart of Pennsylvania’s coal mining industry, has struggled to reinvent itself since the decline of coal. The city’s population has stagnated at around 75,000, a sharp decline from its peak of over 140,000 in the early 20th century. The lack of economic diversity and high unemployment rates have driven many residents to relocate.
Public Services and Governance Challenges
Scranton’s public services are strained, with aging infrastructure and underfunded public schools. The city has struggled with fiscal mismanagement, leading to high property taxes, which have further driven out the middle class. Residents often cite poor local governance as a reason for leaving, as the city has failed to attract new businesses or investments.
5. Chester
Crime and Poverty
Chester, located just outside of Philadelphia, has become a symbol of urban decay and poverty in Pennsylvania. The city’s population has been steadily declining, with only about 32,000 residents remaining in 2024, down from a peak of 66,000 in the 1950s. High crime rates, particularly violent crime, plague the city, making it one of the most dangerous places to live in Pennsylvania.
Flight of the Middle Class
Chester’s middle class has largely fled the city, seeking safer and more prosperous communities in nearby suburbs. The city’s public schools are underfunded and overcrowded, and the local economy remains stagnant, with few job opportunities outside of low-wage sectors. The future for Chester looks bleak without significant intervention to address these challenges.
6. Wilkes-Barre
Economic Decline and Aging Population
Wilkes-Barre, like Scranton, was once a bustling coal town that has struggled to adapt to the decline of the coal industry. The city’s population has dropped from over 86,000 in the 1930s to approximately 40,000 in 2024. The lack of economic opportunities has led to an outward migration of younger residents, leaving behind an aging population.
Issues with Public Services and Education
Wilkes-Barre’s public services, including healthcare and education, are struggling to keep up with demand. The city’s schools are underfunded, and there is a lack of access to quality healthcare, particularly for the elderly. The economic outlook for Wilkes-Barre is grim, as the city continues to lose residents to more prosperous areas.
7. Hazleton
Population Shifts and Economic Struggles
Hazleton, located in Luzerne County, has seen significant population changes over the past few decades. The town has experienced a large influx of immigrants, which has helped stabilize the population to some extent. However, many long-time residents are leaving due to economic struggles and a lack of job opportunities. Hazleton’s unemployment rate remains high, and the local economy has not fully recovered from the decline of manufacturing.
Crime and Housing Concerns
Hazleton also faces rising crime rates, particularly related to gang activity and drug trafficking. The housing market is struggling, with many homes sitting vacant or in disrepair. These issues have prompted many residents to relocate to more stable areas in the region, such as Allentown or Harrisburg.
Conclusion
The seven Pennsylvania towns discussed in this article—Johnstown, McKeesport, Altoona, Scranton, Chester, Wilkes-Barre, and Hazleton—are facing significant demographic and economic challenges. Population decline, driven by the collapse of key industries, high crime rates, and underfunded public services, has prompted many residents to flee these areas in search of better opportunities. While each town has its unique set of problems, the common theme of economic stagnation and the flight of younger, working-age residents presents a daunting challenge.
Revitalization efforts are necessary to reverse these trends, but they will require significant investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and job creation. Without these changes, the population decline in these towns will likely continue, exacerbating the problems they already face.
Pennsylvania’s urban-rural divide is growing, and without focused attention, many of these once-thriving towns may continue to fade away. The state’s future lies not only in its major cities but in revitalizing these struggling communities, which have long been the backbone of its economy and culture.