List of municipalities in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania in United States

Philadelphia from South Street Bridge July 2016 panorama 2

Pittsburgh Skyline - dan Chmill

Allentown

List of Municipalities in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, a state located in the northeastern region of the United States, is divided into several types of incorporated municipalities: cities, boroughs, towns, and townships. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has a total of 2,560 municipalities, making it one of the states with the highest number of municipalities in the country. This article provides an overview of the municipalities within Pennsylvania, categorized by their type and including notable examples.

Cities

In Pennsylvania, cities are incorporated under one of three classes based on their population size at the time of classification. There are 57 cities in Pennsylvania, ranging from Philadelphia, the largest with over 1.5 million residents, to smaller cities like Parker, which has fewer than 1,000 residents.

First Class City

• Philadelphia is the only first-class city in Pennsylvania, notable for its rich history, cultural heritage, and as the economic and cultural anchor of the Greater Philadelphia region.

Second Class and Second Class A Cities

• Pittsburgh is classified as a second-class city, known for its steel industry history and vibrant arts scene.
• Scranton holds the designation of a second-class A city, recognized for its role in the coal industry during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Third Class Cities

• Examples include Allentown, Erie, and Reading, each with its own unique industrial and cultural backgrounds.

Boroughs

Boroughs are a common form of government in Pennsylvania, with 958 boroughs across the state. Boroughs are generally smaller than cities and are often characterized by a close-knit community and a council-manager form of government. Notable boroughs include:

• State College, home to the Pennsylvania State University, a major educational and research institution.
• Gettysburg, known for the pivotal battle of the American Civil War and the Gettysburg National Battlefield.

Towns

The state has only one town, Bloomsburg, which is the county seat of Columbia County. Bloomsburg is unique in its classification and operates similarly to a borough but retains the title of "town."

Townships

There are two types of townships in Pennsylvania: first class and second class. The classification is primarily based on population density, and there are 1,454 second-class townships and 93 first-class townships. Townships often cover larger rural or suburban areas. Notable townships include:

• Lower Merion Township, a first-class township known for its affluent communities and historical sites.
• Upper Darby Township, a diverse second-class township adjacent to Philadelphia.

Governance

Municipal governance in Pennsylvania varies by the type and class of the municipality. Cities often have a mayor-council system, while boroughs and townships typically operate under a council-manager system. The governance structure is designed to provide local services such as police and fire protection, zoning, and road maintenance.

Challenges and Issues

Municipalities in Pennsylvania face various challenges, including economic development, maintaining infrastructure, and managing budgets. Urban areas may struggle with issues like poverty and crime, while rural municipalities often face challenges related to population decline and access to services.

Conclusion

The list of municipalities in Pennsylvania reflects the state's diverse geography and history. From large urban centers to small rural townships, each municipality contributes to the rich tapestry that is Pennsylvania. Understanding the different types of municipalities and their governance is crucial for residents and those interested in the state's political and social dynamics.