Erie

Known as “Gem City” because of adjacent Lake Erie’s sparkling appearance under sunlight, Erie, Pennsylvania, lies on the lake’s south shore. The city was founded in 1795. Today, it stretches across 19.3 square miles, and has a median age of 34.5 (2022). Its main industries include manufacturing, insurance, healthcare, higher education, tourism, and technology.

Homes in Erie have been built in Tudor, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival architectural styles. The typical home value is $167,617, up 14.1% over the past year (Zillow, 2022). When residents want to get out and enjoy what the city has to offer, they can choose from annual events that include Erie Restaurant Week, Downtown d’Lights, Erie’s Blues & Jazz Festival, and Tall Ships Erie.

Major thoroughfares serving Erie include I-79, I-86, I-90, Pennsylvania Route 5, and U.S. Route 20. Some of the best neighborhoods in or around Erie are Frontier, Bayfront, and South East Hills. Frontier is a family-friendly area by the lake, and lies close to Route 5 and I-79. Bayfront, which is also on the lakeshore, features shops, craft beer, and tapas bars that attract visitors and residents alike. South East Hills has the benefit of being near downtown and offering homes in various styles, sizes, and prices.

With Presque Isle State Park and Lake Erie nearby, residents have a bounty of outdoor activities on their doorsteps, from hiking and cycling to swimming and canoeing.