Pocono Mountains
Great Outdoors ● Mountain Sports ● Charming Towns ● Food & Craft Beer
The Poconos are more than just a ski getaway; there are charming towns, tranquil lakes, and lush forests. Towns like Stroudsburg host art galleries, museums, and attractive Main Streets. Farm-to-table restaurants and breweries offer fresh, seasonal flavors, while historic inns and lodges provide cozy escapes. Job opportunities depend heavily on location and industry. Tourism, hospitality, and construction thrive in resort areas, while healthcare and education offer stability in larger towns. Smaller communities might present unique prospects in agriculture, craftsmanship, and local businesses. Remote work opportunities are also on the rise. Beyond the professional realm, the Poconos beckon with year-round outdoor adventures. Hike scenic trails, kayak tranquil lakes, or hit the slopes in winter. Nature lovers bask in the diverse landscapes, from waterfalls and forests to sprawling valleys and scenic vistas. Living costs vary significantly across the region. While vacation home prices and bustling tourist towns come with a premium, smaller communities and rural areas offer affordable options. Compared to major cities, the overall cost of living remains moderate, especially for those enjoying a simpler lifestyle.
Political Impact
House: District 8 ● Senator ● Presidential
The 2024 House race in Pennsylvania’s 8th Congressional District is rated as a toss-up by the Cook Political Report. It is currently held by a Democrat who won by a narrow margin in 2022 and it would be a difficult seat to lose. Similarly, one of the two Senate seats currently held by a Democrat is highly contested and in jeopardy of flipping. And, Pennsylvania is considered one of the most important battleground states for the Presidential election. So, there is an opportunity to have an immediate triple impact.
Affordability
Compared to big cities on the East Coast, the Poconos offer a lower cost of living. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable place to live, vacation, or retire. Housing costs, in particular, tend to be more manageable compared to major coastal cities.
See housing options in Stroudsburg →
See housing options in Pocono Pines →
See housing options in Pocono Township →
Highlighted Communities
Stroudsburg
Suburban ● $$$ ● Schools: B ● Crime: N/A ● Community Health: Average ● Airport: 30 - 60 Minutes ● Charming Town ● Walkable
In Stroudsburg, it is possible to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains while enjoying the convenience of a charming town. Stroudsburg offers a blend of small-town vibes and access to outdoor adventures.
Stroudsburg has a dense suburban feel, with a mix of residential neighborhoods and a walkable downtown area. There is variety in the housing stock, so residents can choose from single family homes to apartments for rent. Both of which have a reasonable cost of living. While Stroudsburg itself isn't a bustling metropolis, it offers all the essentials for daily life, with grocery stores, shops, and restaurants.
The true magic of Stroudsburg lies in its proximity to the Pocono Mountains. A short drive opens up a world of outdoor activities. Hike through lush forests, explore scenic waterfalls, or go whitewater rafting on the Delaware River. During winter, the Pocono Mountains are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or cozy nights in a cabin retreat. Stroudsburg serves as a gateway to this natural playground, allowing residents of all ages to enjoy the beauty of the Poconos while maintaining a comfortable and convenient home base.
Stroudsburg also offers cultural experiences and entertainment options. The town boasts several art galleries showcasing local talent, and historical sites like the Monroe County Historical Society provide a glimpse into the region's past. Throughout the year, festivals and events add a touch of excitement, from the annual Shawnee Craft Festival to the delightful holiday celebrations that light up the downtown area. For a wider range of entertainment options, the cities of Allentown and Bethlehem are within driving distance.
Overall, Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, offers a unique lifestyle for those seeking a balance between small-town charm, access to breathtaking nature, and a comfortable cost of living. It's a place where you can build a community, explore the beauty of the Pocono Mountains, and enjoy a relaxed pace of life.
Great for: Families, Retirees, Young Professionals, Diversity
Pocono Pines
Suburban/Rural ● $$ ● Schools: B ● Crime: N/A ● Community Health: Average ● Airport: 30 - 60 Minutes ● Nearby Skiing
Pocono Pines offers something special for those seeking the nature-centric lifestyle, fresh air, lush greenery of the Pocono Mountains. Pocono Pines has a distinct rural feel, with housing options that include cozy cabins and spacious chalets. The quiet streets and lack of urban sprawl create a peaceful environment, perfect for those not particularly interested in city life.
While Pocono Pines itself might be a quiet haven, there's no shortage of outdoor activities to fill your days. Hiking and biking trails meander through the scenic woodlands, creating opportunities to explore the views and landscapes of the Poconos. For those seeking even more excitement, whitewater rafting on the Delaware River provides a thrilling adventure. And, of course, during winter, the snow-covered mountains are ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
The nearby town of Stroudsburg offers all the essential amenities you might need, from grocery stores and restaurants to shops and entertainment options. For a wider selection of stores and cultural experiences, the cities of Allentown and Bethlehem are within driving distance.
The cost of living in Pocono Pines is generally lower compared to national averages, particularly for housing. This affordability allows residents to live comfortably and focus on enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds them.
Overall, living in Pocono Pines is ideal for those seeking a peaceful and nature-immersed lifestyle. The combination of affordability, a strong sense of community, and endless outdoor activities makes it a haven for nature lovers, retirees, and families seeking a slower pace of life. Here, you can truly connect with the beauty of the Poconos and enjoy the serenity of the mountains.
Great for: Families, Retirees, Young Professionals, Diversity
Pocono Township
Rural ● $$ ● Schools: B ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Average ● Airport: 30 - 60 Minutes ● Outdoor Adventure ● Peaceful Living
Pocono Township strikes a delightful balance between suburban comfort and the open spaces of the Pocono Mountains. The community itself is primarily residential and has peaceful, tree-lined streets with single-family homes. Nearby shopping centers, grocery stores, and restaurants within the township or nearby Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg. Good public schools add another layer of appeal for families, while parks and recreation facilities provide opportunities for outdoor play, sports activities, and community events.
Living in Pocono Township truly means having nature's playground at your doorstep. Hiking and biking trails wind through the area, offering easy access to breathtaking landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes. Fresh mountain air and the opportunity to explore on foot or by bike are just moments away. Winter transforms the Poconos into a wonderland for snow enthusiasts at the nearby ski resorts and snowboarding facilities.
While Pocono Township offers a primarily suburban feel, small towns like Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg are just a short drive away. These towns provide a taste of history, local shops, and cultural events, adding a layer of variety and enriching your experiences beyond the immediate township.
Overall, Pocono Township offers the best of both worlds: a comfortable suburban lifestyle with easy access to the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains.
Great for: Families, Diversity