Here are 12 stereotypes about Pennsylvania that need to be put to rest—right now:
- “All Pennsylvanians are Amish or Pennsylvania Dutch.”
In reality, the Amish are a small and respected minority. Most Pennsylvanians live mainstream modern lifestyles in cities, suburbs, and rural areas. - “It’s only Philly, Pittsburgh, and nothing in between.”
Central Pennsylvania offers beautiful scenery, vibrant small towns, and historic sites. The state is much more than just its two biggest cities. - “Everyone eats cheesesteaks, all the time.”
Yes, cheesesteaks are famous, but Pennsylvania has a diverse and sizable food scene that goes way beyond the cliché. - “Pennsyltucky is backward and rural.”
The nickname “Pennsyltucky” unfairly paints central PA as out of touch. In reality, it contains a mix of rural, suburban, and even progressive communities. - “Everyone is German or Irish.”
While there’s a strong German-American tradition, Pennsylvania’s population is ethnically diverse, especially in urban areas. - “The whole state has bad roads and drivers.”
While potholes aren’t uncommon, this is an overgeneralization. Road conditions and driver habits vary widely by region. - “There is a huge city vs. country divide—everyone hates each other.”
The Philadelphia-Pittsburgh vs. “the rest” narrative is exaggerated. Differences exist, but so do collaboration and pride in the state’s variety. - “Every household owns a hunting rifle and eats squirrel.”
Hunting is a valued tradition for some, but millions of Pennsylvanians have never hunted or eaten wild game. - “Philadelphia is dangerous and dirty.”
Like all major cities, Philly has its challenges—and also incredible culture, history, and vibrant neighborhoods. - “People are unwelcoming or unfriendly.”
Pennsylvanians are known for being plain-spoken and tough, but also warm, helpful, and community-minded. - “Everyone dresses in flannel and owns a ‘Pennsylvania Tuxedo.’”
The Woolrich flannel hunting suit is a Pennsylvania icon but is mainly worn by hunters—not the everyday attire of most residents. - “There’s nothing to do but watch football and drink Yuengling.”
Pennsylvania’s arts, outdoor adventures, food scenes, and festivals are rich and varied. From museums to national parks, the state offers much more than this stereotype suggests.
These broad stereotypes ignore the diversity and complexity that make Pennsylvania unique and worth exploring.
SOURCES
(https://www.reddit.com/r/AskAnAmerican/comments/6jiuic/americans_whats_the_consensus_on_pennsylvania/)(https://www.phillymag.com/news/2016/01/31/pennsylvania-pennsyltucky-philadelphia/)(https://www.phillymag.com/2015/01/15/pennsylvania-gigantic-culinary-stereotype/)(https://www.pinterest.com/pin/421860690087390732/)
(https://www.buzzfeed.com/amatullahshaw/americans-are-sharing-state-stereotypes)
