MJP –
Pennsylvania, where history, hoagies, and a love of cheesesteaks meet in perfect harmony. If you’re thinking of moving to the Keystone State, you might want to take a step back and reconsider.
Here are 12 reasons why Pennsylvania might not be for you—unless you’re ready for unpredictable weather, potholes galore, and a dedication to regional rivalries.
The weather has an identity crisis
Pennsylvania can’t decide if it wants to be sunny, snowy, or somewhere in between. If you’re not prepared for rain one minute and snow the next, you’re in for a ride.
Potholes are a permanent fixture
Pennsylvania roads look like they’ve survived a battle. Your car’s suspension will be tested daily, especially after winter, which lasts about six months.
Philly vs. Pittsburgh rivalry is serious
Eagles or Steelers? Cheesesteak or Primanti Bros.? Pick a side wisely; Pennsylvanians take their regional pride seriously.
The Amish might outpace you in traffic
Horse-drawn buggies aren’t uncommon, especially in Lancaster County. If you’re a speed demon, sharing the road with a clip-clopping buggy might test your patience.
Everyone’s obsessed with Wawa
This convenience store has a cult following, and Pennsylvanians won’t shut up about it. If you don’t love hoagies, coffee, and snacks from Wawa, you’re missing out on the state’s favorite pastime.
The mountains dominate
From the Poconos to the Appalachians, Pennsylvania’s mountains demand your attention. If you’re not into outdoor adventures, you might get dragged on a hike or two anyway.
Haunted history everywhere
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Pennsylvania is chock-full of old buildings, and most of them are rumored to be haunted. If you’re not up for ghost stories, you’ll be hiding out around Halloween.
Winter lasts forever
The snow starts early, stays late, and refuses to leave. If you’re not a fan of shoveling, scraping, and bundling up, Pennsylvania winters will test you.
You’ll have to learn “Pennsylvania Dutch”
No, not Dutch from the Netherlands—Pennsylvania has its own take, filled with phrases like “outten the light” and “redd up your room.” Good luck keeping up.
You’ll gain a cheesesteak addiction
Philly cheesesteaks are a point of pride, and once you have one, there’s no going back. But don’t try to order one with Swiss cheese or toppings that aren’t “wiz wit” approved.
It’s “Yinzer” or “youse” territory
Depending on where you live, you’ll be expected to say “youse guys” (Philly) or “yinz” (Pittsburgh). Try not to mix them up; you’ll stand out as an outsider instantly.
The festivals get a bit… unique
With events like Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney, the annual mushroom festival, and countless harvest fests, Pennsylvania has a celebration for everything. If quirky local events aren’t your thing, you might find yourself overwhelmed.
So, if you’re still ready to make the move to Pennsylvania, just remember, it’s a place where history, hoagies, and potholes are abundant.
But if you’re prepared for the regional pride, ghost stories, and all the Wawa coffee you can drink, you just might fall for the Keystone State’s rugged charm.
