Where should we live? (Scranton, Harrisburg: new home, find a job, best schools)

[KarinandChris]

My husband will be retired from the AirForce in August and we would love to move to Pennsylvania. We just aren't sure where? We have three children. so safety, and good schools are a huge priority. We are looking for a small town that is close enough to a larger town where my husband could find a job. We love to hike and do outdoor activities. My husband has his Masters in Security Management and has law enforcement, counter terrorism, and Special Operations experience. If anyone has any thoughts on a job as well, we would love to hear from you.

[newmarlig]

Newtown in Bucks County has excellent schools, Council Rock School District, is one of the top rated in the country. You would be about 30 minutes from center city Philly and about a 60 minute train ride to NYC.

[KarenRice]

If you're looking for a small town feel with a good school district, look in the Pike County area - Wallenpaupack School District is also one of the top districts in the state.

Not sure about the jobs though. There is a prison in Pike County and the state police are also an option with those credentials.

[bldginpa]

I second the vote for Pike County. Lots of towns to choose from, some small, some large. Milford is the county seat. Check out the photo tour on this site by ScrantonWilkesBarre. Hawley is also a nice small town. Check out the photo tour on Honesdale and that will give you an idea of an average size town.

[I LOVE PA!]

There are a lot of private communities with their own security force, might be a possible job. Pike County would have them as well as Wayne County.

[KarinandChris]

People have told us to avoid the Pocono region because of the increase in gang problems. Is this true?

[vetegnc]

We just moved with our two young children to State College, and are enjoying it. Went hiking this morning (well, we tried to anyway!), and had MANY places to choose from. It's nice b/c of Penn State - you've got a well educated population, lots of activities b/c of the school (has concerts, shows, good restaurants, etc.). If you want BIG city stuff though, not recommended. I like it b/c the big cities (pitts, philly, DC, NYC) are 3-5 hours away....
Good luck!

[danwxman]

I would look into Cumberland County, PA. It's got numerous small towns, and it's right outside the small city of Harrisburg. Lots of government and defense facilities around, being that it's the capital city. Also, a few defense contractors and the New Cumberland Defense Distribution Center. Cumberland county is cheaper then the larger metros in PA, plus it has some of the best schools in the state. Look for Cumberland Valley school district.

[teresainman4]

Can anyone tell me the names of some subdivisions or development to build a new home in in Lackawanna, Monroe, Wayne or Pike counties? I'm in Indiana trying to find a list of them and am having no luck...most of the builder web sites I find just give general areas. Thanks!

[PSUgirl]

Someone said State College, it's a very nice place.