Ashley Pennsylvania: Is It Really the Best Place to Live?
Considering a move to Ashley, Pennsylvania, and wondering if it truly lives up to the hype? The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Metropolitan Statistical Area, home to Ashley Pennsylvania, offers a blend of small-town charm and access to larger city amenities. The town's proximity to the Susquehanna River influences its local culture and outdoor recreational opportunities. Evaluating factors such as the area's cost of living, job market, and access to resources like the Ashley Borough Council is critical to understanding whether Ashley Pennsylvania aligns with your lifestyle and needs.

Image taken from the YouTube channel timesleadervideo , from the video titled Welcome to Ashley, Pa. .
Ashley, Pennsylvania: Unpacking the Best Place to Live Debate
So, you're wondering if Ashley, Pennsylvania lives up to the hype? It's a great question! Deciding where to call home is a big decision, and articles that explore places like Ashley need to offer a well-rounded picture. Here’s a breakdown of the best way to structure an article answering the question: "Is Ashley, Pennsylvania Really the Best Place to Live?" focusing on the keyword "ashley pennsylvania".
Introduction: Setting the Stage
The introduction is crucial. It needs to grab the reader's attention and clearly state the article's purpose. Instead of simply stating "This article is about Ashley, PA," aim for something more engaging.
- Start with a Hook: Pose a question that residents and potential residents might ask themselves, e.g., "Dreaming of small-town living with easy access to larger cities? Ashley, Pennsylvania might be on your radar. But is it really the idyllic place it seems?"
- Brief Overview: Briefly introduce Ashley, mentioning its location, size (if known), and a quick, positive attribute (e.g., "Located in Luzerne County, Ashley offers a quiet lifestyle close to the bustling city of Wilkes-Barre").
- Thesis Statement: Clearly state the article's intention. Something like, "This article will delve into various aspects of life in Ashley, Pennsylvania, examining its pros and cons to help you determine if it's the right fit for you."
- Keyword Integration: Naturally incorporate "ashley pennsylvania" in the introduction (already done in the example!).
Location and Accessibility
Location is key! This section helps readers understand Ashley's place within the broader region.
- Geographic Location: Pinpoint Ashley within Luzerne County and relate it to nearby towns and cities. Include a map if possible (or suggest one).
- Proximity to Major Cities: How far is it from Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, or even larger metropolitan areas like Philadelphia or New York? Provide mileage and estimated driving times.
- Transportation:
- Roads: Are there major highways nearby? How easy is it to commute?
- Public Transportation: Does Ashley have public transportation options (bus, train)? If so, describe them.
- Airports: How close is the nearest airport?
Cost of Living
A crucial factor for anyone considering a move.
- Housing Costs:
- Median Home Price: Provide the current median home price in Ashley. Compare it to the Pennsylvania average and national average.
- Rent Costs: If available, include average rental costs for different types of properties (apartments, houses).
- Property Taxes: Briefly discuss property taxes and how they compare to neighboring areas.
- Other Expenses:
- Utilities: Are utilities more or less expensive than the national average?
- Groceries: How do grocery prices compare?
- Transportation Costs: Factor in gas prices, car insurance, and public transportation fares.
- Cost of Living Index: If possible, include a cost of living index number for Ashley compared to the national average (100).
Community and Culture
What's it like to live in Ashley?
- Demographics: Provide basic demographic information (age, race, education level) to give a sense of the population.
- Local Events and Activities:
- List any annual events, festivals, or community gatherings.
- Are there parks, recreation areas, or community centers?
- Are there local clubs or organizations?
- Local Businesses: Highlight locally owned shops, restaurants, and services. This gives a feel for the community's character.
- Sense of Community: This is a subjective element, but important. Based on research, describe the general sense of community in Ashley. Is it tight-knit? Welcoming to newcomers?
Education
An essential consideration for families.
- Public Schools:
- School District: Identify the school district Ashley belongs to.
- School Performance: Provide information on school ratings and test scores (if available).
- Student-Teacher Ratio: What is the average student-teacher ratio?
- Private Schools: List any private schools in Ashley or nearby.
- Higher Education: How close are colleges and universities?
Safety and Security
An important aspect of quality of life.
- Crime Rates:
- Research crime statistics for Ashley. Compare them to the national and state averages.
- Break down the types of crime (violent crime, property crime).
- Remember to cite your sources!
- Emergency Services: Describe the police and fire departments. Are there volunteer services?
- General Sense of Safety: Again, a subjective element, but based on available data and research, describe the overall feeling of safety in Ashley.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective
This section is vital for providing a balanced overview.
- Use bullet points for clarity.
- Pros:
- Affordable housing (if applicable)
- Small-town atmosphere
- Proximity to larger cities
- Strong community (if applicable)
- Low crime rate (if applicable)
- Cons:
- Limited job opportunities (if applicable)
- Potentially limited shopping and dining options
- Higher property taxes (if applicable)
- Distance from major airports (if applicable)
- Pros:
Real Estate Market (Optional, but Recommended)
If possible, include a brief overview of the current real estate market in Ashley.
- Market Trends: Are home prices increasing, decreasing, or stable?
- Types of Properties Available: Are there mostly single-family homes, apartments, or a mix?
- Links to Real Estate Websites: Provide links to reputable real estate websites where readers can search for properties in Ashley.
Visual Appeal
- High-Quality Images: Include photos of Ashley. Capture the town's character, parks, local businesses, and overall atmosphere. Avoid stock photos if possible, opt for photos that show the town accurately.
This structure ensures a comprehensive and informative article that helps readers decide if Ashley, Pennsylvania, truly is the best place for them to live. Remember to always cite your sources and present information accurately and fairly. Good luck!
Video: Ashley Pennsylvania: Is It Really the Best Place to Live?
FAQs About Living in Ashley, Pennsylvania
Here are some common questions people have when considering a move to Ashley, Pennsylvania. We'll cover important aspects to help you decide if Ashley is the right fit for you.
What are the major pros of living in Ashley, Pennsylvania?
Ashley, Pennsylvania, offers a small-town feel with a lower cost of living compared to nearby larger cities. It’s also conveniently located near major highways, providing easy access to employment and entertainment options in the wider Wilkes-Barre area. You get a quieter pace of life with a sense of community.
What's the job market like in and around Ashley, Pennsylvania?
While Ashley itself is a smaller community, it benefits from its proximity to Wilkes-Barre. Many residents commute to Wilkes-Barre for work in sectors like healthcare, education, and retail. Being close to these economic hubs offers a wider range of employment opportunities.
How affordable is housing in Ashley, Pennsylvania?
Housing is generally more affordable in Ashley, Pennsylvania, compared to other parts of the state. You'll find a mix of older homes and some newer developments, often at more attractive prices. This can make Ashley a good option for first-time homebuyers or those looking to downsize.
What kind of community and amenities does Ashley, Pennsylvania offer?
Ashley boasts a close-knit community with local shops and restaurants. While it may not have all the big-city amenities, it offers a peaceful environment and easy access to outdoor recreation. Residents often participate in local events, fostering a strong sense of belonging.