It was here, on the banks of the Susquehanna, that 19th-century Harrisburg grew into an industrial hub, fed by the Pennsylvania Railroad. Today, this capital city remains the economic heart of 400 surrounding communities. A strong labor force (#59 for Labor Force Participation) supports an economy where the healthcare, health insurance and manufacturing sectors thrive. State and federal government hiring is strong, and six local universities provide opportunities and talent alike. The city’s housing affordability—#8 in the nation—entices that talent to stick around. While they’re here, they’ll be wise to take a stroll. Harrisburg’s historic downtown, ranked #14 for Walkability, will lead you right to the river’s edge, where you can spy City Island, once a refuge for soldiers during the Civil War. More popular today with sunbathers than infantry, its beach is just one of Harrisburg’s #35-ranked green spaces. Looking ahead, revitalization is at the top of Harrisburg’s agenda, hoping to pair its #18-ranked convention center with other urban amenities. Enterprising chefs are eager to drive its #94 Restaurants ranking higher, and the Harrisburg Mall, which closed in 2024, will be the site of Swatara Exchange: a new state-of-the-art mixed-use development.