Pennsylvania

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State Motto

Virtue, Liberty, and Independence

State Motto of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania State Information

Pennsylvania is the 2nd State in the Union

Pennsylvania, located in the northeastern U.S., is a state known for its deep historical roots, diverse landscapes, and lively cities. Nicknamed the "Keystone State" because of its crucial role in the founding of the nation, Pennsylvania is home to key historical landmarks like Independence Hall in Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed.

The state offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with vibrant cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh alongside peaceful rural areas, rolling hills, and the scenic Pocono Mountains. Pennsylvania’s industrial heritage is strong, particularly in steel production, and the state has also developed a booming technology sector. Pennsylvania beautifully combines its rich history with modern growth, making it a place with something for everyone, from culture to nature.

State Nickname of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Geography

Download maps of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a geography that offers a lot of variety. The state is defined by the Appalachian Mountains, which stretch through the central and western parts, with the Pocono Mountains being a well-known feature in the east. To the north and west, the Great Lakes region and the Erie Peninsula provide beautiful lakefronts along Lake Erie. Pennsylvania is also home to fertile valleys, like the Susquehanna River Valley, which support the state’s agriculture.

In the southeast, Philadelphia, a major city, stands out as a cultural and economic hub, while Pittsburgh in the southwest remains a center of industry and culture. With its mix of natural landscapes and urban life, Pennsylvania offers a unique balance of beauty and bustling city life.

Pennsylvania Economy

Pennsylvania has a diverse and strong economy that spans several key industries. While the state was once known for its coal and steel production, it has shifted toward a more varied economic base. Manufacturing, healthcare, education, technology, and agriculture all play important roles. Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are central to the state’s economy, particularly in finance and technology.

Pennsylvania is also a leader in energy production, especially natural gas and renewable energy. Its location along the East Coast, combined with excellent transportation networks, makes it a crucial hub for distribution and logistics. Agriculture continues to be important, with the state being a top producer of mushrooms, dairy products, and poultry.

Pennsylvania at a Glance

Key facts about Pennsylvania covering taxes, cost of living, income, and climate.

Taxes

Pennsylvania levies a flat income tax rate of 3.07% on all taxable income. Residents carry an above-average overall tax burden of 10.60% of income, and the combined state and local sales tax averages a low 6.34%.

Overall Tax Burden

Income Tax:	3.07% (flat rate)
Overall Tax Burden:	10.60% of income
State Sales Tax:	6.00% (6.34% avg combined with local)
Property Tax Rate:	1.58% effective rate
Gas Tax:	61.10¢ per gallon
Estate Tax:	Yes

Cost of Living & Housing

Pennsylvania has a below-average cost of living, running about 5.1% cheaper than the national average. The median home price of $260,000 is below the national average.

Cost of Living Index

Cost of Living Index:	94.90 (US avg = 100)
Median Home Price:	$260,000
Median Monthly Rent:	$1,150/mo

Income & Employment

Pennsylvania's median household income of $67,587 is near the national average. The unemployment rate stands at a healthy 3.90%, and the poverty rate is 11.70%.

Median Household Income

Median Household Income:	$67,587
Minimum Wage:	$7.25/hr
Unemployment Rate:	3.90%
Poverty Rate:	11.70%

Climate

Pennsylvania is one of the cloudier states, averaging 101 sunny days per year. Winters are cold, averaging 29.0°F in January, with summers reaching 76.0°F in July, and the state receives moderate snowfall of about 30.00" per year.

Sunny Days / Year

Sunny Days / Year:	101 days
Avg January Temp:	29.0°F
Avg July Temp:	76.0°F
Annual Rainfall:	41.40"
Annual Snowfall:	30.00"

Demographics

Pennsylvania has a median age of 40.6, close to the national average. It is one of the most densely populated states at 291.0 people per square mile, and the population is broadly stable with 0.10% growth.

Median Age

Median Age:	40.6 years
Population Density:	291.0 per sq mi
Population Growth:	0.10% (last census)

Pennsylvania State Symbols