Moving to the Lehigh Valley for work has become one of the most common relocations we handle. Because the region’s economy is growing fast, job seekers keep arriving from New York, New Jersey, and beyond. So if a new role is bringing you here, a little planning makes the transition smooth. Here is what to know before you relocate.
Why Are People Moving to the Lehigh Valley for Work?
The short answer is jobs. In fact, the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation reports the region ranks as the number one mid-sized U.S. market for economic development, with manufacturing and logistics driving nearly 74,000 jobs. That kind of growth pulls in workers from across the Northeast.
Location helps too. Since the Valley sits within a day’s drive of a third of the country, and about 90 minutes from both New York City and Philadelphia, companies and commuters alike find it hard to beat.
The Region’s Biggest Employers and Sectors
Several industries anchor the local job market. Logistics and warehousing line the I-78 and Route 22 corridors, while manufacturing runs deep with iconic names like Crayola, Mack Trucks, and Just Born. Meanwhile, healthcare keeps growing, led by large networks such as Lehigh Valley Health Network and St. Luke’s.
More is coming, as well. For example, Eli Lilly is building a major manufacturing facility in the region, which will bring even more roles in the years ahead.
Where to Live When You Work Here
Your commute should shape your home search. Allentown offers city amenities and quick highway access, Bethlehem blends historic charm with a walkable downtown, and Easton sits closest to the New Jersey line. Wind Gap and the smaller surrounding towns, meanwhile, give you a quieter pace with an easy drive to the job corridors.
Each town moves a little differently, too. Because city parking rules, narrow historic streets, and township HOA paperwork all vary, a local crew that already knows the area saves you real headaches on move day.
Cost of Living: A Big Reason People Relocate Here
Affordability is a major draw. Because housing costs far less here than in the New York or North Jersey metro, many people keep a similar salary while spending much less on rent or a mortgage. As a result, your paycheck simply stretches further.
That gap is why so many commuters make the jump. Even with a longer drive, the savings often make the move worth it.
Planning a Move Around a New Job
Timing matters when a start date is involved. So aim to move a week or two before your first day, which gives you time to settle in and avoid a stressful first week. Also, book your movers early, since good crews fill up fast in spring and summer.
Relocating from out of state adds a layer of planning, as well. Because a long-distance move takes more coordination, give yourself extra lead time and lock in your dates as soon as you can.
How We Help You Relocate to the Lehigh Valley for Work
We move people here for new jobs every month, so we know the area cold. Because we are based right in Wind Gap, our trained, W-2 crews handle both local moves within the Valley and long-distance moves into it. Moreover, we coordinate the whole process, from packing to delivery, so your relocation never pulls focus from your new role. See our full moving services for everything we cover.
Start Your Lehigh Valley Move
Tell us where you are coming from, your start date, and what you are moving, and then we will build a plan around it. As America’s Favorite Local Movers, our 5-heart reviews come from making every relocation feel easy. We serve Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Wind Gap, and the surrounding communities. Request your free estimate today, or call us directly at (484) 705-2800.