c.1908 Pennsylvania Home With Unpainted Woodwork $99K

735 Grove Ave, Johnstown, PA 15902

Pros of Living in Johnstown, PA

1. Affordable Cost of Living & Housing

• The cost of living is about 7% lower than the national average, with housing costs running 30% below average.

• Median home values are particularly low—for instance, around $42,100 according to Niche.

• Investopedia highlights that retirees benefit from tax advantages (no Social Security or retirement withdrawals taxed) and low housing and living costs.

2. Rich History & Culture

• Johnstown’s storied past—centered around events like the 1889 flood—is well preserved at places like the Johnstown Flood Museum.

• The Flood City Music Festival, plus performing arts at UPJ’s Pasquerilla Center, add cultural vibrancy.

3. Outdoor Recreation & Scenic Setting

• The region is a haven for nature lovers—hiking, biking, skiing, and more—with nearby parks, trails, and lakes

• Notable attractions include the Johnstown Inclined Plane, the world’s steepest vehicular funicular.

4. Healthcare Resources & Short Commutes

• Healthcare services score highly—Johnstown ranks just behind major university cities in access and quality.

• Commute times are relatively short, and food service options are above average in the region.

5. Tight-Knit Community & Small-Town Feel

• There’s a palpable sense of community and friendliness among residents.

• Local voices echo that sentiment:

  “Plenty to do if you enjoy the outdoors… 90 minutes to Pittsburgh… some good restaurants opening downtown…”

Cons of Living in Johnstown, PA

1. Economic Challenges, Poverty & Population Decline

• The city has struggled economically after the steel industry collapse, now ranking among the poorest in the U.S.

• Poverty affects roughly 30–38% of residents, and population has declined significantly over time.

2. Job Market Constraints

• Employment opportunities are limited—mainly centered in healthcare, retail, education, and some defense sectors.

• As a Redditor noted:

  “Job market is not great… You’ll survive on a Walmart wage.”

3. Crime and Safety Concerns

• Crime rates—both violent and property—are substantially higher than Pennsylvania’s average, with a 1 in 38 chance of being victimized.

• BestPlaces reflects higher-than-average crime scores.

4. Harsh Winters, Gloomy Weather & Terrain

• Johnstown sees cold, snowy winters and fewer sunny days than other mountain towns.

• The hilly terrain makes walking difficult for some residents—notably impacting walkability.

5. Limited Amenities & Entertainment

• Many locals feel the city lacks variety in food, shopping, and nightlife

• Reviewers describe the downtown as feeling “economically depressed” and “down,” despite some recent positive changes.