Pennsylvania is a diverse state with rich history, vibrant cities, and unique communities. Yet, a handful of stereotypes persist that don’t stand up to reality. Here are ten misconceptions about Pennsylvania and why they deserve to be retired:
1. Everyone Lives in Either Philadelphia or Pittsburgh
Pennsylvania has dozens of mid-sized cities, charming small towns, and expansive rural communities. Huge swathes of the population live outside Philly and Pittsburgh, with central PA offering its own unique culture and scenery.
2. It’s Always Amish Country
While the Amish are an important part of the state’s history and culture, most Pennsylvanians have no ties to this community. The majority of the population lives modern lifestyles in cities, suburbs, and non-Amish rural areas.
3. “Pennsyltucky” Means the Middle Is All Hicks
The term “Pennsyltucky” has fueled an unfair divide between city and rural cultures. Central Pennsylvania includes a blend of small towns, farms, mountains, and history—not just stereotypes about rural life.
4. Philadelphia Is All Crime and Cheesesteaks
Philly is more than just sports fanaticism and cheesesteaks. It’s a world-class city filled with history, dynamic neighborhoods, arts, and incredible food far beyond the classic sandwich.
5. Pittsburgh Still Runs on Steel
The steel industry shaped Pittsburgh, but today the city is a leader in technology, medicine, and education, attracting people from around the world.
6. Pennsylvanians Have Strange Accents
While the Philadelphia “wooder” and Pittsburgh “yinz” are famous, most Pennsylvanians speak with only subtle regional inflections, if any. The state is home to several dialects—not just the stereotypes.
7. The Weather Is Terrible
Snowy winters are common, but Pennsylvania enjoys four true seasons. Beautiful springs, magnificent autumns, and warm summers are part of life for most residents.
8. Everyone Eats Only Pretzels, Scrapple, and Hoagies
Though these foods are popular, the state offers a diverse cuisine reflecting its multicultural history and large immigrant populations.
9. All Roads Are Pothole-Ridden and Drivers Are Bad
The rough road reputation is exaggerated. While harsh winters do take a toll on infrastructure, the same is true for many northeastern states, and driving ability varies everywhere.
10. The Whole State Is Politically Divided and Grumpy
Pennsylvanians are resilient, warm, and welcoming. Though political differences exist, the majority of residents share a plainspoken friendliness and pride in their communities.
In reality, Pennsylvania is too diverse and interesting for any single stereotype to capture. Appreciating its mix of old and new, urban and rural, gives a fuller—and more honest—picture of the Keystone State.
Sources
[1] https://patch.com/pennsylvania/lansdale/whats-first-thing-people-say-when-they-hear-youre-pa
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/AskAnAmerican/comments/6jiuic/americans_whats_the_consensus_on_pennsylvania/
[3] https://www.phillymag.com/news/2016/01/31/pennsylvania-pennsyltucky-philadelphia/
[4] https://www.movoto.com/guide/pa/pennsylvania-stereotypes/
[5] https://www.pinterest.com/pin/here-are-13-stereotypes-about-pennsylvania-that-need-to-be-set-straight–68750331794870929/
