Thinking about a move to Allentown but unsure how your commute will look day to day? You want a home that fits your lifestyle and a route that respects your time. In this guide, you’ll learn the fastest ways in and out of the city, typical travel times, where to live for easy access, and what to budget. Let’s dive in.
Why Allentown works for commuters
Allentown sits at the heart of the Lehigh Valley with quick connections to Bethlehem and Easton, plus straightforward routes toward Philadelphia, northern New Jersey, and the New York metro. Driving is the most common way people commute, but you also have local and intercity bus options. If you travel for business, Lehigh Valley International Airport is nearby, which keeps trips efficient. As you plan, weigh your primary destination, peak hours, and backup options.
Your commute options at a glance
Driving and highway access
If you drive, you’ll rely on US Route 22 for east–west travel across the valley and Interstate 78 for eastbound trips toward New Jersey and New York. Other key corridors include PA‑309, Route 222 toward Reading, and I‑476, the Northeast Extension of the PA Turnpike. Congestion is heaviest during morning and evening rush, especially around US‑22 interchanges and ramps to I‑78 and I‑476. Some routes involve tolls, so consider an E‑ZPass transponder for savings and convenience.
Local buses with LANta
The Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority operates fixed-route buses that connect downtown Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and park‑and‑ride lots. Frequency varies by route, with the most frequent service closer to downtown. If you plan to commute without a car, check route maps and schedules near your prospective home using the official LANta routes and schedules. Living within a short walk of a frequent route or park‑and‑ride hub can simplify your routine.
Intercity buses to NYC and Philly
Private carriers offer direct service to major employment centers. For example, Trans‑Bridge Lines schedules include service to New York City’s Port Authority and select runs to the Philadelphia area. Intercity buses are a reliable car‑free option if your schedule aligns, though total travel time can be longer during peak periods.
Rail status today
As of mid‑2024, there is no direct, regular commuter rail service between Allentown and New York City or Philadelphia. Multiple agencies have studied potential passenger rail, and conversations continue at the state and regional level. If rail access is vital, monitor announcements from NJ TRANSIT, Amtrak, and the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission for any updates.
Air travel from ABE
Lehigh Valley International Airport is just outside Allentown and useful for business trips and frequent flyers. While not a daily commuting mode, proximity to ABE flight services keeps travel days manageable and can be a deciding factor if you travel often for work.
Typical travel times and patterns
Intra‑Lehigh Valley commutes
Commuting within the Lehigh Valley, such as Allentown to Bethlehem or Easton, often takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on your origin, destination, and time of day. Midday travel is generally smoother than peak periods. Where you live relative to highway ramps makes a noticeable difference. Test drive your route during the hours you plan to travel.
To Philadelphia
Plan for roughly 60 to 90 minutes or more by car, depending on your exact destination and traffic. Intercity bus service can be comparable or slower, especially with transfers. For day‑of conditions, use 511PA’s real‑time traffic to check incidents and travel times. Flexible hours can significantly reduce your time behind the wheel.
To New York City
Expect around 90 to 150 minutes by car or intercity bus, with the widest variability at peak times. Entry point into the city and bridge or tunnel conditions will affect your total time. If you prefer bus service, confirm schedules and stop locations in advance and consider park‑and‑ride options. Always build buffer time for morning arrivals.
Peak congestion to expect
Morning inbound travel toward major employment centers and evening outbound trips are busiest. Local bottlenecks include US‑22 interchanges and ramps to I‑78 and I‑476. Travel times can shift quickly when there is an incident, work zone, or winter weather. Keeping a go‑to detour plan helps you stay on schedule.
Best neighborhoods for commuters
Downtown and Center City
If you want walkability and proximity to frequent bus routes, downtown and Center City offer the most convenience. You can reach local job centers quickly and access multiple LANta lines. This is ideal if your work is within Allentown or nearby Bethlehem.
West End and US‑22 corridor
Areas along and north of US‑22 are popular with drivers who want fast highway access. You’ll find a mix of housing types and easy connections across the valley. If your commute spans east–west, being close to an on‑ramp can cut travel time.
East Allentown and I‑78 access
Neighborhoods toward I‑78 are well positioned for eastbound commutes to New Jersey or trips toward northern routes. This can reduce your surface‑street time to reach the interstate. If your work destination changes, you still have options via US‑22 and local arterials.
Suburban municipalities in Lehigh County
Many commuters choose nearby municipalities for more single‑family options and park‑and‑ride access. Commute times vary by street network and distance to ramps. If you rely on transit, verify walking distance to a bus stop or park‑and‑ride before you commit.
Cost, parking, and winter prep
What to budget
Driving costs include fuel, maintenance, parking fees, and tolls if you use the Turnpike or cross into New Jersey or New York. E‑ZPass can reduce toll costs and speed up your trip, so review the Pennsylvania Turnpike E‑ZPass options before you set your routine. Transit costs vary by local LANta passes and intercity bus fares. Factor in the value of your time when comparing housing farther out.
Parking and park‑and‑ride
Downtown Allentown offers a mix of municipal lots, garages, and on‑street parking, though rates and availability vary. Many employers provide parking for staff, so verify details and costs during your job or relocation process. If you plan to ride the bus, confirm the nearest facilities and schedules using LANta’s system information.
Winter readiness
Snow and ice can quickly increase travel times. State routes and major arterials are cleared first, so know which roads take priority on your path. Before you head out, check closures and delays on 511PA and leave extra time to reach your destination safely.
Plan your commute like a local
Use this quick checklist to test options before you choose a home:
- Identify your primary work destination and typical start and end times.
- Drive your route during peak hours to observe congestion and ramp access.
- Prioritize proximity to the ramp in your direction of travel, not just distance.
- Map the nearest bus stops, park‑and‑ride lots, and intercity bus terminals.
- Verify schedules on LANta and Trans‑Bridge Lines; explore regional connections via NJ TRANSIT and Amtrak.
- Monitor day‑of traffic with 511PA and review future plans on the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission.
- Confirm home and workplace parking and understand winter clearance priorities.
Looking ahead: projects to watch
Regional leaders regularly evaluate highway upgrades, transit adjustments, and potential passenger rail. Timelines for major changes can be long and funding dependent. For the most current updates, follow transportation plans and studies from the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission and service alerts from agencies listed above.
How we help you choose wisely
If commute time is a key factor, the right neighborhood choice will save you hours each week. Our team helps you align your work location, schedule, and lifestyle with the best corridors and transit options. We coordinate preview routes, verify parking and access details, and narrow your search to homes that make day‑to‑day life easier. Ready to relocate with confidence? Connect with The Rebecca Francis Team to map your move with tailored, white‑glove guidance.
FAQs
How long is the commute from Allentown to Philadelphia at rush hour?
- Typical drive times are about 60 to 90 minutes or more depending on your destination and traffic; check 511PA’s real‑time traffic for day‑of conditions.
Is there a train from Allentown to New York City?
- There is no direct, regular commuter rail service as of mid‑2024; consider intercity buses like Trans‑Bridge Lines and monitor NJ TRANSIT and Amtrak for updates.
Which Allentown areas offer the best highway access?
- Neighborhoods near US‑22 and I‑78 ramps, such as parts of the West End and East Allentown, often reduce surface‑street time; evaluate each home by the exact route you plan to use.
How much will tolls add if I use the Turnpike or commute into New Jersey?
- Costs vary by route and frequency; an E‑ZPass can reduce tolls and streamline travel, so review options with the Pennsylvania Turnpike E‑ZPass program.
Does LANta run early or late enough for my shift?
- Service frequency and hours vary by route; verify exact times for your address and schedule using LANta’s routes and schedules.
