Is Media Safe, Pros and cons of living in Media
Media, Pennsylvania, offers a charming blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. Nestled in Delaware County, this borough provides a distinct living experience for its residents, characterized by a strong sense of community and a picturesque setting.
The town’s historical roots are evident in its well-preserved architecture and its designation as the county seat. This unique combination of a peaceful environment and its administrative importance makes Media a compelling place to consider for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Is it Safe to Live in Media?
Media, PA, presents a complex picture regarding safety. While some sources indicate a crime rate that is lower than the national average, others suggest it is higher than many Pennsylvania towns. The overall crime rate in Media is estimated to be 14% below the national average as of 2026 (DoorProfit). However, NeighborhoodScout reports that Media’s crime rate is higher than 88% of Pennsylvania’s cities and towns of all sizes.
Your chance of being a victim of violent crime in Media is approximately 1 in 319 per year, while the chance of being a victim of property crime is about 1 in 56 (DoorProfit). Crime rates can vary significantly by neighborhood, with some areas being considerably safer than others (CrimeGrade.org). Residents generally consider the southern parts of the borough to be the safest (CrimeGrade.org, CrimeGrade.org).
Housing Costs and Availability
The housing market in Media, PA, is characterized by strong home values and a competitive rental landscape. The median listing price for a home in Media is approximately $731,500 (realtor.com®). This figure reflects a robust real estate market where properties are valued significantly.
For renters, the median rental price is around $1,900 per month (Zillow). This indicates a steady demand for rental properties within the borough. While the market shows strong home values, rental prices also reflect a consistent demand, suggesting a balanced rental availability.
Rental Market Trends
Rental prices in Media have seen some fluctuations. As of March 2026, the average rent was $1,935, showing a slight month-over-month decrease of 0.3% but a year-over-year increase of 1.9% (Zillow). The median rent for all bedroom counts and property types is approximately $2,020, which is 4% higher than the national average (Zumper).
The rental market has seen an increase in prices over the last year, with median rent prices rising by 9% in the last year (Zumper). However, some reports indicate a year-over-year decline in rent prices by -11.45% (realtor.com®). This variability suggests that potential renters should research current market conditions.
Cost of Living
The overall cost of living in Media, Pennsylvania, is higher than the national average. Estimates place the cost of living about 19% higher than the national average (Payscale). This elevated cost is influenced by several key expense categories, notably housing.
Housing expenses in Media are substantially higher, reportedly 83% above the national average (Payscale). Other utilities are also slightly higher, by approximately 9% compared to the national average. Transportation costs, including bus fares and gas prices, are about 4% higher than the national average. Grocery prices are marginally higher, at 4% above the national average.
Budgetary Considerations
For singles, the estimated monthly living cost in Media is around $2,831, while for a family of four, it is approximately $6,234 (Salary.com). These figures highlight the need for careful financial planning for residents. Healthcare costs in Media are also noted to be 4% higher than the national average (Payscale).
When considering a move to Media, it is essential to factor in these higher living expenses. The cost of living is 14% higher than the U.S. national average, with housing costs being a significant driver. This means that incomes may need to be higher to maintain a similar standard of living as in other parts of the country.
Job Market and Employment
The job market in Media, PA, offers a range of opportunities, with a reported average salary that is competitive within the region. The average salary in Media, PA, is approximately $82,000 annually (Payscale). This figure represents a notable increase, with wages trending upward.
The cost of living in Media is significantly higher than the national average, which is an important factor when considering salaries. The most popular occupations include Human Resources Generalist and Administrative roles, indicating a diverse employment landscape.
Major Employers and Industries
Several key employers contribute to the economic vitality of Media and the surrounding Delaware County area. Wawa, Inc., a well-known convenience store chain, is a significant employer (Zippia, Delaware County Economic Development Corporation). Other major employers in the broader region include The Boeing Company, United Parcel Service Inc., and Prospect Crozer Keystone Health System (Delaware County Economic Development Corporation).
FXI Holdings, Inc., a manufacturer of polyurethane foam and polymer products, is also based in Media (Zippia). BAYADA Home Health Care, an international nonprofit home health care provider, further diversifies the employment opportunities available in the area. These companies represent a mix of retail, logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors.
Unemployment and Wages
The unemployment rate in Delaware County, PA, where Media is located, was 4.4% in February 2026 (USAFacts). This reflects a slight increase from the previous year. Pennsylvania’s statewide unemployment rate was 4.2% in November 2025 (Department of Labor and Industry).
The average annual salary for an average job in Media, PA, is reported as $68,000, with an hourly rate of $32.69 (Zippia). The median wage is noted to be around $48,000 per year (ZipRecruiter). While the cost of living is high, these salary figures provide a benchmark for potential residents.
Climate and Weather
Media, Pennsylvania, experiences a climate with distinct seasons, ranging from warm summers to cold, snowy winters. The average annual temperature typically varies between 26°F and 86°F, rarely falling below 13°F or exceeding 93°F (WeatherSpark.com). This range offers a varied climate throughout the year.
Summers are warm, humid, and wet, with July being the hottest month, averaging a high of 88°F and a low of 69°F (myPerfectWeather). Winters are cold and snowy, with January seeing the lowest temperatures, averaging a high of 41°F and a low of 26°F (myPerfectWeather).
Precipitation and Seasonal Conditions
Media receives an average annual precipitation of 47 inches, which includes rain and the liquid equivalent of snow (myPerfectWeather). The month with the most precipitation is July, averaging around 5 inches. The wetter season typically runs from April to August.
Winter brings snowfall, with an average of 17 inches annually (myPerfectWeather). The climate is generally partly cloudy year-round. The period from mid-April to June and mid-August to October is considered the most comfortable for outdoor activities due to mild temperatures and lower humidity.
Education and School Ratings
Media, PA, is served by the Rose Tree Media School District, which consistently receives high ratings and performs well academically. The district is ranked among the top in Pennsylvania, with an overall 5-star rating from SchoolDigger (SchoolDigger.com). This indicates a high level of educational quality and consistency.
Public schools in Media demonstrate strong academic performance, with average math proficiency scores of 65% and reading proficiency scores of 81% (NeighborhoodScout). These scores are notably higher than the state averages for Pennsylvania public schools.
School District Performance
The Rose Tree Media School District encompasses several highly-rated schools, including Rose Tree Elementary School, Media Elementary School, and Glenwood Elementary School, all of which are recognized for their academic achievements (NeighborhoodScout). The district consistently outperforms state averages on standardized tests, maintains low dropout rates, and boasts high graduation rates.
Students in Media have access to a strong educational foundation, with schools like Penncrest High School also receiving commendations for their performance. The district’s commitment to education is reflected in its academic outcomes and rankings within the state.
Demographics and Population
Media, PA, is a borough with a population of approximately 5,870 residents as of the most recent data (Data USA). The population has seen a slight increase since the 2020 Census, indicating modest growth. The median age in Media is 45 years, suggesting a population that is largely in its adult working and retirement years (Point2Homes).
The borough is home to a diverse population, with White residents forming the largest demographic group at approximately 81.6% (Census Dots). Other significant racial groups include Asian (4.9%), Black or African American (3.7%), and Hispanic (5.0%) residents.
Population Diversity and Age Distribution
While White residents constitute the majority, Media does have a notable presence of Asian and Black or African American communities. The Asian population, in particular, has seen growth in recent years (Census Dots). The borough’s diversity is comparable to the state of Pennsylvania overall.
The age distribution shows that adults aged 25 to 64 make up a substantial portion of the population, with approximately 34.4% in the 25-44 bracket and 27.5% in the 45-64 bracket (Point2Homes). Around 22.3% of residents are 65 or older, indicating a significant senior population.
Pros and Cons of Living in Media
Living in Media, PA, offers a distinct set of advantages and disadvantages that prospective residents should consider. The borough’s strong sense of community, excellent school system, and convenient location are significant draws for many. Its charming atmosphere and historical character contribute to a desirable living environment.
However, the higher cost of living, particularly in housing, is a notable drawback. While Media provides a peaceful suburban setting, the safety aspect requires careful consideration due to varying crime rate reports. The job market, while present, may require individuals to look towards the broader Philadelphia metropolitan area for more extensive opportunities.