Emmaus, Bethlehem or other areas for young families? (apartment, renting)

[Quackers]

My family and I are planning on relocated to PA in the near future, and are trying to narrow down where to look for a new home. Friend of ours have recommended Bethlehem, but I was hoping to get some more info.

We have an almost 2 year old little one, so we are interested in parks, short drives to stores, libraries and other toddler type activities. We would also like to hear about the school districts. Are the better schools in Bethlehem, or the surrounding towns?

Would Bethlehem be a good fit for us, or should we look into one of the surrounding towns like Emmaus?

Thanks very much!

[Quackers]

Sorry! I saw the sticky a little too late, here's the info


When are you moving? Within the next year
Where are you coming from? Upstate NY
Why are you moving? To be closer to family in NYC
Where will you be working? From home
Have you been here yet? Not yet but planning a trip

Will you buy or rent? Could go either way, we are hesitant to buy but we are fine with renting first
If buying, are you looking for a house or a condo? How much can you spend? At least 3 beds, 2 baths and a yard in a family friendly neighborhood
If renting, are you looking for an apartment, a townhouse or loft? How much can you spend? $1000, 3 beds in a safe place
Do you prefer hi-rise or walk up? Neither

Are you married or single? Do you have children? Married with one little one
Do you prefer public or private schools? Public if they are good, otherwise private
Do you have pets? Yes
Do you want or need a yard? yes
Are you keeping a car? Yes
Do you prefer bustling activity or calm and quiet? Calm and quiet

What do you want to be closest to?

Shopping
Basic services (supermarket, drugstore, etc.)


Do you want to live with people of a similar age, race, religion or sexual preference or do you prefer a diverse neighborhood? We are interested in sending our daughter to Chinese school at some point, but that's about it