Pennsylvania has long been a favorite for retirees thanks to its low-cost living, rich history, and access to both cities and countryside. But not every town in the Keystone State is ideal for life after work. New 2025 data using the Overall Retirement Score (ORS) reveals a sharp divide between attractive retirement hubs and towns that fall short in key areas like safety, quietness, walkability, and cultural offerings.
From struggling post-industrial cities to noisy suburbs and underserved rural communities, this list highlights 20 towns that may not offer the lifestyle many retirees are after. Whether it’s lackluster public transit, limited access to amenities, or simply low scores in overall livability, each entry here has something holding it back.
20. Lansdale – Limited Senior-Friendly Transit Access
Lansdale sits in Montgomery County, about 28 miles northwest of Philadelphia. With a walkable downtown and SEPTA rail access, it might seem like a decent choice on paper. But retirees are finding it less appealing than expected. While it’s a commuter favorite, those who no longer work find limited senior-focused resources, few public green spaces, and a car-centric infrastructure that makes aging in place harder.
High home prices and modest cultural amenities don’t help either. Lansdale caters more to young professionals commuting to Philly than to aging residents seeking peace, community programs, and low-maintenance living.
Lansdale – ORS 42.75
- Overall Retirement Score: 42.75
- Quietness: 38.20
- Walkability: 45.60
- Cultural amenities: 39.45
- Vibrancy: 44.30
- Car-Friendliness: 41.25
- Transit-Friendliness: 36.80
The low transit score is a real concern here—especially when combined with middling walkability. Retirees who don’t want to rely on a car every day may find Lansdale frustrating. Add to that a fairly noisy suburban atmosphere, and it becomes clear why this spot didn’t score higher.
19. Middletown – Underwhelming Amenities and Aging Infrastructure
Middletown in Dauphin County sits just outside Harrisburg and near the Susquehanna River. It’s small and accessible but lacks the charm or amenities to make retirement comfortable or exciting. Public services and infrastructure are aging, and the downtown area offers limited entertainment or cultural draws.
Though it’s affordable and quiet compared to bigger cities, the low walkability and transit options limit independence for older adults—particularly those no longer driving.
Middletown – ORS 41.80
- Overall Retirement Score: 41.80
- Quietness: 39.50
- Walkability: 37.25
- Cultural amenities: 35.70
- Vibrancy: 42.15
- Car-Friendliness: 46.30
- Transit-Friendliness: 32.45
With few senior-friendly transportation options and an uninspired cultural scene, Middletown may feel isolating. For retirees seeking an active and engaging lifestyle, this town doesn’t deliver.
18. McKeesport – Struggling Post-Industrial Economy
Located southeast of Pittsburgh in Allegheny County, McKeesport was once a steel town, but like many Rust Belt communities, it’s faced decades of economic hardship. This has led to declining public services, limited healthcare options, and a struggling housing market—making it a less-than-ideal retirement destination.
While it’s more affordable than many places in Pennsylvania, affordability alone isn’t enough when other quality-of-life factors fall short.
McKeesport – ORS 40.65
- Overall Retirement Score: 40.65
- Quietness: 36.30
- Walkability: 41.20
- Cultural amenities: 31.60
- Vibrancy: 38.45
- Car-Friendliness: 44.75
- Transit-Friendliness: 35.90
With underfunded transit and few opportunities for enrichment or community connection, McKeesport is better suited for budget-focused younger residents than retirees looking for comfort and engagement.
17. New Castle – Low Cultural Access and Public Transit Challenges
New Castle, the seat of Lawrence County in western Pennsylvania, has a rich industrial history but has struggled to reinvent itself in modern times. Retirees here face limited healthcare access, few community centers, and a shortage of engaging cultural activities. The historic downtown area has potential but suffers from underinvestment and declining foot traffic.
The town’s quiet charm might appeal to some, but isolation can set in quickly, especially for those without a car or family nearby.
New Castle – ORS 39.70
- Overall Retirement Score: 39.70
- Quietness: 40.25
- Walkability: 38.60
- Cultural amenities: 29.80
- Vibrancy: 35.40
- Car-Friendliness: 47.30
- Transit-Friendliness: 30.55
New Castle’s very low transit and cultural scores reflect a lack of mobility and limited local attractions, two critical areas where retirees need support. It’s a quiet town, but maybe too quiet for most people entering retirement.
16. Chester – High Noise and Safety Concerns
Just outside Philadelphia along the Delaware River, Chester has a long history and a strong sense of community. Unfortunately, it also faces persistent issues with crime, noise, and a lack of accessible green space. These make it far less appealing to retirees seeking peace and security.
While the city has made some infrastructure improvements, its resources are often stretched thin. It remains better suited to younger, mobile residents than seniors looking for a slower pace.
Chester – ORS 38.90
- Overall Retirement Score: 38.90
- Quietness: 31.45
- Walkability: 42.30
- Cultural amenities: 32.75
- Vibrancy: 36.25
- Car-Friendliness: 39.85
- Transit-Friendliness: 41.70
The low quietness and car-friendliness scores make daily life more difficult for older adults. For retirees hoping to age comfortably in place, Chester simply doesn’t offer enough peace or accessibility.
15. Hazleton – Few Activities and a Struggling Downtown
Hazleton, located in Luzerne County, is a small city with a strong working-class identity. While its cost of living is low, it falls short in areas that retirees often prioritize—like vibrant cultural life, accessible healthcare, and attractive outdoor spaces. The downtown lacks revitalization, and the area doesn’t have a strong public transit network.
This might be a practical choice for budget-conscious seniors, but those seeking engagement, convenience, or natural beauty might find it lacking.
Hazleton – ORS 37.80
- Overall Retirement Score: 37.80
- Quietness: 33.65
- Walkability: 39.40
- Cultural amenities: 30.50
- Vibrancy: 34.20
- Car-Friendliness: 43.60
- Transit-Friendliness: 33.75
With middling scores across the board and no standout strengths, Hazleton doesn’t offer much for retirees beyond affordability. It’s quiet but not connected, and isolated living may be a challenge.
14. Johnstown – Shrinking Population and Few Services
Tucked into the hills of Cambria County, Johnstown has seen its population steadily decline for decades. The result? A limited tax base and fewer resources for residents—particularly older ones. Healthcare options are limited, and transit routes are infrequent.
The town does have natural beauty, including access to trails and rivers, but these benefits can be outweighed by economic stagnation and low community engagement opportunities.
Johnstown – ORS 36.60
- Overall Retirement Score: 36.60
- Quietness: 38.15
- Walkability: 34.75
- Cultural amenities: 28.30
- Vibrancy: 31.60
- Car-Friendliness: 42.95
- Transit-Friendliness: 29.85
With low scores in vibrancy, culture, and transit, Johnstown lacks the infrastructure needed to support a thriving retiree population. It’s quiet—but perhaps too quiet for those hoping to stay active.
13. Reading – Noise and Safety Detract from Urban Perks
Reading is one of Pennsylvania’s larger cities, and it does offer walkability and some cultural draws. But those are offset by high noise levels, safety concerns, and inconsistent city services. Older adults living here often report difficulty accessing safe, senior-oriented transportation or health services.
Reading also experiences significant socioeconomic disparities, which can affect quality of life and neighborhood stability.
Reading – ORS 35.40
- Overall Retirement Score: 35.40
- Quietness: 29.75
- Walkability: 40.85
- Cultural amenities: 33.50
- Vibrancy: 37.70
- Car-Friendliness: 36.25
- Transit-Friendliness: 38.90
While more vibrant than many towns on this list, Reading still lacks the safety and quiet retirees typically prioritize. That, combined with uneven amenities, keeps it from being a strong retirement choice.
12. Wilkes-Barre – Aging Infrastructure, Limited Transit
In northeastern Pennsylvania, Wilkes-Barre faces many of the same problems as Hazleton and Scranton: fading infrastructure, limited public transit, and a shrinking tax base. Although the downtown has seen pockets of renewal, the overall environment doesn’t offer the connectivity and accessibility retirees need.
Healthcare and senior-friendly community programming are available but unevenly distributed.
Wilkes-Barre – ORS 34.20
- Overall Retirement Score: 34.20
- Quietness: 31.50
- Walkability: 37.65
- Cultural amenities: 32.40
- Vibrancy: 33.80
- Car-Friendliness: 35.50
- Transit-Friendliness: 34.60
Wilkes-Barre doesn’t completely lack amenities—but they are not consistent enough to earn it a better score. For retirees looking for convenience, it may fall short.
11. Scranton – Aging Rust Belt Appeal Doesn’t Translate to Comfort
Scranton has the bones of a great small city. It’s walkable, it has cultural attractions, and there’s a good public transit foundation. But its aging infrastructure and low quietness score reflect persistent issues with noise, safety, and upkeep.
For retirees, Scranton can feel like a city that’s trying to be revitalized but isn’t quite there yet.
Scranton – ORS 33.85
- Overall Retirement Score: 33.85
- Quietness: 32.40
- Walkability: 38.95
- Cultural amenities: 35.30
- Vibrancy: 36.50
- Car-Friendliness: 33.70
- Transit-Friendliness: 36.25
Despite cultural and transit strengths, the daily grind of dealing with city noise and patchy infrastructure holds Scranton back for retirees seeking a more relaxed pace.
10. York – Low Quietness and Subpar Accessibility
Located in south-central Pennsylvania, York is rich in American history and has a growing arts scene. But for retirees, that cultural draw is often offset by the town’s low quietness score and limited car and transit access. York struggles with noise, patchy road conditions, and uneven sidewalk infrastructure, making day-to-day movement more difficult for older residents.
Despite modest improvements downtown, neighborhoods outside the center still lack the connectivity or walkable charm needed to support senior living.
York – ORS 32.60
- Overall Retirement Score: 32.60
- Quietness: 28.35
- Walkability: 37.40
- Cultural amenities: 31.85
- Vibrancy: 34.75
- Car-Friendliness: 32.90
- Transit-Friendliness: 35.10
York’s low quietness score stands out here. Combined with moderate-to-low transportation access, it creates an environment that’s neither calm nor convenient—two must-haves for most retirees.
9. Allentown – Urban Noise Without Big-City Benefits
Allentown is one of the largest cities in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, and while it’s seen major investment in recent years, retirees haven’t reaped the rewards. High traffic, noise, and inconsistent public amenities create friction for older adults trying to live comfortably without a car.
It’s a better fit for younger families or professionals, especially those drawn to the city’s growing entertainment sector. But for retirees, the downsides often outweigh the perks.
Allentown – ORS 31.40
- Overall Retirement Score: 31.40
- Quietness: 27.60
- Walkability: 39.25
- Cultural amenities: 34.60
- Vibrancy: 35.80
- Car-Friendliness: 30.45
- Transit-Friendliness: 37.50
The city has vibrancy, but its low quietness and car-friendliness make day-to-day life harder for older adults. Without a strong senior support network, it ranks low as a retirement destination.
8. Harrisburg – Capitol City, But Not Retiree-Friendly
Harrisburg, the state capital, might seem like a prime spot for retirees with its government services and riverfront location. But aging infrastructure, heavy traffic, and limited green space for quiet recreation say otherwise. While the cultural institutions are solid, they’re not always easily accessible to seniors.
And for those without a car, getting around outside the city center can be a significant challenge.
Harrisburg – ORS 30.25
- Overall Retirement Score: 30.25
- Quietness: 26.30
- Walkability: 38.75
- Cultural amenities: 35.20
- Vibrancy: 36.90
- Car-Friendliness: 28.65
- Transit-Friendliness: 38.75
Despite some cultural appeal, Harrisburg’s low quietness and car-friendliness scores signal trouble for retirees seeking peace and ease of travel.
7. Erie – Harsh Winters and Aging Systems
Erie sits on Lake Erie’s southern shore and is known for its maritime charm and natural beauty. But long winters, high snow accumulation, and an aging public infrastructure make it difficult for retirees to thrive. Many amenities are spread out, and services tailored to seniors are limited.
The walkability is fair, but icy sidewalks and cold temperatures for half the year make getting around uncomfortable.
Erie – ORS 29.10
- Overall Retirement Score: 29.10
- Quietness: 30.45
- Walkability: 35.60
- Cultural amenities: 33.70
- Vibrancy: 34.50
- Car-Friendliness: 31.25
- Transit-Friendliness: 32.80
Erie’s climate and older infrastructure can become real obstacles to aging in place. It’s scenic, but not necessarily suited for older adults hoping to stay active year-round.
6. Pittsburgh – Great Culture, But Challenging for Daily Life
Pittsburgh is often praised for its revitalization, and while its cultural and medical offerings are impressive, the day-to-day realities don’t always favor retirees. The city is hilly, its roads are confusing, and winter weather can be harsh. Parking is difficult, and public transit—while present—can be hard to navigate for those with mobility issues.
Retirees may enjoy a weekend visit, but living here full-time can wear on those seeking simplicity and calm.
Pittsburgh – ORS 27.85
- Overall Retirement Score: 27.85
- Quietness: 23.50
- Walkability: 42.70
- Cultural amenities: 46.80
- Vibrancy: 45.30
- Car-Friendliness: 25.40
- Transit-Friendliness: 45.60
Though vibrant and full of activities, Pittsburgh’s noise, car-unfriendly layout, and steep topography make it a tricky fit for retirees. It’s a city of highs and lows—literally and figuratively.
5. Philadelphia – Energetic, But Not Comfortable for Seniors
Philadelphia boasts incredible cultural institutions, historical sites, and public transit. But for retirees, the benefits are buried beneath high crime rates, dense traffic, and a serious lack of quiet. The walkability helps, but only if you’re up for dealing with noise and safety concerns.
Like other major cities, Philly favors energy and bustle—two things not high on most retirees’ wishlists.
Philadelphia – ORS 26.40
- Overall Retirement Score: 26.40
- Quietness: 21.30
- Walkability: 48.90
- Cultural amenities: 52.40
- Vibrancy: 51.70
- Car-Friendliness: 20.15
- Transit-Friendliness: 53.80
Despite stellar transit and cultural life, Philadelphia’s overwhelming noise and tough driving conditions make it a stressful retirement choice.
4. Williamsport – Too Quiet, Not Connected
Home of the Little League World Series, Williamsport in central Pennsylvania has small-town charm but few amenities to sustain an active retirement. Its cultural life is thin, and its transit options are nearly nonexistent. The pace of life is calm—but some might call it stagnant.
With limited healthcare access and long travel times to larger cities, it’s not ideal for retirees who value connectivity.
Williamsport – ORS 25.30
- Overall Retirement Score: 25.30
- Quietness: 29.80
- Walkability: 32.45
- Cultural amenities: 28.65
- Vibrancy: 30.50
- Car-Friendliness: 33.40
- Transit-Friendliness: 27.65
Retirees who want both calm and convenience won’t find both here. Williamsport is quiet, but almost to a fault—especially with few ways to get around.
3. Altoona – Isolation and Limited Healthcare
Altoona in Blair County has beautiful mountain views, but few services tailored to older adults. Transportation is minimal, cultural venues are few and far between, and many residents report difficulty finding local healthcare specialists.
Though housing is affordable, the isolation and lack of variety make it hard to recommend for retirement.
Altoona – ORS 23.75
- Overall Retirement Score: 23.75
- Quietness: 31.40
- Walkability: 29.60
- Cultural amenities: 25.70
- Vibrancy: 27.85
- Car-Friendliness: 35.20
- Transit-Friendliness: 24.30
A low cultural score and weak transit support drag Altoona’s retirement viability down. It’s not a place for retirees who want to stay socially or physically active.
2. Monessen – Steep Decline and Minimal Amenities
Monessen is a small town in Westmoreland County that once thrived during the steel boom. Today, it faces a dwindling population, aging infrastructure, and very limited amenities. Healthcare access is minimal, and there are few community programs or cultural options for older residents.
Its affordability is not enough to offset the deep lack of services.
Monessen – ORS 22.15
- Overall Retirement Score: 22.15
- Quietness: 32.50
- Walkability: 25.80
- Cultural amenities: 21.40
- Vibrancy: 23.60
- Car-Friendliness: 31.70
- Transit-Friendliness: 22.85
With some of the lowest cultural and transit scores in the state, Monessen is one of the least supportive towns for retirees looking to stay engaged or connected.
1. Duquesne – Lowest Score in the State for Retirees
Just outside Pittsburgh, Duquesne tops the list for all the wrong reasons. It’s quiet, yes—but that’s due to widespread disinvestment, not peaceful living. There are almost no amenities, transit options are sparse, and cultural outlets are few and far between. This is a town in need of major support, and right now, retirees won’t find it here.
Duquesne – ORS 19.40
- Overall Retirement Score: 19.40
- Quietness: 26.70
- Walkability: 22.35
- Cultural amenities: 18.60
- Vibrancy: 20.45
- Car-Friendliness: 28.90
- Transit-Friendliness: 19.75
Duquesne scores last in Pennsylvania’s retirement rankings because it lacks nearly every factor that makes a town appealing to retirees. Until more services are introduced, it remains a cautionary tale.
