Where to locate near Reading, PA (Allentown, Bethlehem: house, school districts, property tax rates)

[penet05]

Hi,

I am very likely getting a job offer from a company in Reading. I am married with 3 kids. Our priority is to live in a newly built house which is assigned to good schools. Definitely do not want to travel more than 30 minutes. I appreciate any input you can share on possible locations.

Thanks.

[NewtownBucks]

Wyomissing

[rowhomecity]

Your budget would be most helpful. But Wyomissing would be your best bet.

[Wells5]

Look for a new or newer home within the Wyomissing or Wilson School Districts.

[penet05]

Thank you for the input. I briefly looked at those places but found the property tax rates are almost at %4 based on some well-known websites! While the south side of Allentown simply around 2%. This makes about 8-10K per year difference for a house around $500K. Am I missing something?

[NewtownBucks]

Originally Posted by penet05

Thank you for the input. I briefly looked at those places but found the property tax rates are almost at %4 based on some well-known websites! While the south side of Allentown simply around 2%. This makes about 8-10K per year difference for a house around $500K. Am I missing something?

Wyomissing is more expensive than places by Allentown for sure (assuming you're talking about places like Fleetwood or Oley up to Emmaus). It's different being more small town/exurban in those areas, as opposed to Wyomissing, which is suburban and much more convenient to Reading. Wyomissing school district is higher rated, although the other more rural districts are fine, too, if you prefer those areas. If you go all the way up to Emmaus, that is suburban Allentown/Bethlehem, but you're at the fringe of your 30 minute commute.

A $500k budget in Wyomissing should be plenty to get what you want.

[Tulippsy]

The Exeter school district is also a great option.