on $100k a year, leaving Wichita
changea dispatch from
allentown
PA
40.60°N
75.49°W
Allentown is the heart of the Lehigh Valley, with old industrial bones turning into a quietly resilient mid-sized city. The Lehigh River runs past, the historic downtown has been steadily finding its footing with breweries and restaurants in the old buildings, and the surrounding farmland is gorgeous. It's an hour and change from both Philly and NYC. Cheaper than both, by a lot.
the verdict
the monthly premium over Wichita
You'd pay for Allentown. The question is whether the days are worth the difference.
a quick ledger.
$1,809/mo
54% more expensive than Wichita(vs $1,173/mo)
3.07%
$219/mo less in state tax than Wichita
vs 5.7% in Wichita
$6,269/mo
$416 less than Wichita
gross of federal tax. a comparison, not a paycheck.
$359k
62% more expensive than Wichita
vs $221k in Wichita
874k
vs 653k in Wichita
field notes, weather & such.
157
pleasant days a year, in allentown.
Wichita actually gets more: 164 pleasant days a year.
A real upgrade on things to do: 1.5× Wichita's pace.
73/100
40% higher than Wichita
vs 52/100 in Wichita
Closest outdoor draw: Lehigh Gorge State Park, 23.6 mi.
86/100
25% higher than Wichita
vs 69/100 in Wichita
9
18% fewer than Wichita
vs 11 nonstops in Wichita
if allentown appeals, also worth a look:
compare allentown with:
