Up to date advice on Allentown and Bethlehem (Easton, Emmaus: condo, houses)

[huey215]

I have been living near Lititz and working over seas, but now I am looking taking a new job in the LH area. I have a really short time to relocate and would so appreciate any advice on what parts of Allentown are better than others. I like Bethlehem a lot, and walked around the North side, but allentown is mostly unknown to me, apart from one drive through what seemed a rougher neighborhood.

Thanks.

[toobusytoday]

If you are talking about Lehigh Valley hospital on Cedar Crest and Route 78, then you can easily live in Emmaus or the West side of Allentown. There are some really nice places if you go North on Cedar Crest past Tilghman in Allentown. Anywhere in Emmaus is nice. It's hard to give a good opinion not knowing what your priorities are. If you are youngish and want a place that has some sort of nightlife, then you will want downtown Bethlehem. If you want activity but a bit quieter -Emmaus. If you just want a nice old house convenient to the hospital, then West Allentown would be nice.

[huey215]

Thanks for the input.

[keithlantz]

You can find nice and inexpensive houses on the Northside of downtown Bethlehem. There is a Lehigh Valley Hospital branch (Muhlenberg) in Bethlehem too! Bethlehem (northside) is a great community for a young professional. There are many festivals and events throughout the year. The northside is safe and walkable and many of the LANTA bus lines run through as well. Downtown Bethlehem is only a 20 minute ride to LH Cedar Crest and only 5 minutes to LH Muhlenber.

[Matt_PSU]

Bethlehem is the best of the three cities for a young professional. I've lived there 6 years and would recommend it. You can find reasonably priced twins on the north and west sides, many within walking distance of downtown. Just watch the linden corridor on the northeast side. The neighborhood changes quickly around there. If you are looking for a condo then the best place might be upper macungie in that area.

[loose cannon]

Allenswamp should be avoided! It is an eyesore! Live in Bethlehem, and do not go to Allenswamp for anything. Bethlehem is great. It is one of the best small cities in the country. Easton is fine too. But, there is no hope for Allenswamp!

[toobusytoday]

Gee Loose Cannon, Tell us how you really feel! While I wouldn't choose to live in Center City Allentown, there are some nice places to visit within the city limits. The Symphony is wonderful as is the Allentown Art Museum, The Baum School of Art, and the library is great. I shop fairly often at Valley Farm Market on Emmaus Avenue and go to church in West Allentown weekly. I would not recommend a family moving to Center City or put their kids in the schools, but thousands of people live there because they choose to so there must be some good places.

[Simonbubly]

in my humble opinion you are better off in Bethlehem.