History + Location
Reading is located in Berks County, conveniently positioned between Harrisburg and Philadelphia. Reading owes its name to the now-defunct Reading Railroad. You may recognize it as one of the railroads on the Monopoly game.
Reading was once considered a thriving industrial center built on heavy industry, textiles and anthracite coal. Because of those days, Reading is full of historical sites, beautiful architecture and Victorian style homes. However, in recent years, Reading has struggled with higher crime and poverty rates. Even with that though, we still have hope for Reading. Recently, according to US news and World Report Reading was ranked #5 in best places to live in PA.
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Schools
The immediate outskirts of Reading are alive and thriving, with low crime rates and some of the top schools in the state. There are 19 schools in total- 13 elementary, 5 middle schools and 1 senior high school. For a full list of schools click here.
Attractions + Community
Reading is famously known as “The Pretzel City” because of its many pretzel bakeries. It is also known as a destination for cyclists, with more than 125 miles of trails for runners, hikers and bikers. The Schuylkill River is a great place for kayaking and canoeing. And sports fans enjoy following the Reading Fightin Phils (Philadelphia Phillies’ minor league baseball team) and Reading Royals Ice Hockey.
There is no shortage of things to do for art or history buffs. You can attend a music theater production at Genesius Theatre, learn about the history of flight at the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum, get a glimpse into the life of an American legend at the Daniel Boone Homestead, enjoy a show at Reading Symphony Orchestra, or visit GoggleWorks art gallery, whose vision is beautifully stated: “to transform lives through unique interactions with art.” GoggleWorks also features 8 teaching studios in ceramics, hot and warm glass, metal smithing, photography, printmaking, woodworking and virtual reality.
The community gathers for events and concerts at Santander Arena, a facility built in the 1870’s which seats 9,000 people. There are multiple festivals and community events year round including Reading’s Fire and Ice Festival, Berks Jazz Fest and Koziar’s Christmas Village. For fresh, local and organic foods, head to The Fairground Farmer’s Market, PA Dutch Farmer’s Market and West Reading Farmer’s Market.
Jobs + Homes
The largest employers in Reading are Reading Hospital, East Penn Manufacturing Co and Carpenter. The average annual salary is $49,730. The median home price as of 2022 is $181,300. which is lower than the state average.
(*stats taken from spring 2022, check sources below for updated information)
Conclusion
We believe that Reading can make a comeback. With its rich historical heritage and the thriving community around downtown Reading, we hope to see this city return to its former glory. Over the last 10+ years over $266 million has been invested in development projects in the downtown area. Want to be a part of transforming Reading? Check out homes currently available in the Reading School District here.
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