The rich Pennsylvania diversity makes it an ideal location for new residents. From the gleaming urban centers of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to the breathtaking natural beauty found throughout its rural heartland, the state has something to suit everyone’s taste. Philadelphia is the sixth-largest city in the U.S. and offers an eclectic, yet distinct array of neighborhoods. It has the highest standard of living per dollar of any major city in the Northeast corridor and it is a short drive to the Pocono Mountains to the north, Amish farmland to the west and Atlantic shore to the east, as well as Boston, Washington, D.C. and New York City. Pittsburgh’s low cost of living, short commutes and world-class medical facilities makes it one of the most livable communities in America. Here you will also find the Strip District, a multi-ethnic community lined with fresh produce markets, wholesale stores, restaurants and coffeehouses. In 2005, Pennsylvania received the 11th Smartest State Award, recognizing its commitment to students and teachers, emphasizing excellence in the classroom and ensuring that public elementary and secondary schools are efficiently-run. Pennsylvania’s colleges and universities are at the cutting edge of technology, providing students with the tools they need to succeed in the rapidly changing global economy.