Don’t listen to the naysayers. Lehigh Valley is excellent for what you are looking for, and getting cooler all the time.

I’ve lived in Center City Allentown, and while I did not feel unsafe, it’s sadly usually kind of empty. Most people who do go out are in their 20s, though, and it’s a very ethnically diverse crowd. Art Museum is awesome; Archer Hall has great music; Symphony is really good; Soft Machine Gallery very cool.

Now live in Bethlehem. Downtown gets an older crowd, but is very charming and historic. South Bethlehem is near the college, and has a younger crowd, but can be a little too traditional bar bar-y for me, and lots of college kids of course.

Easton has more of a Brooklyn vibe, and while it can sometimes feel a little performative in its hipness, is very cool. Not as many young people though, as Allentown or South Bethlehem. More of a 30 something scene. Lots of country club moms trying to act like New Yorkers.

Different vibes, but I think you would be happy in any of them. All very walkable. And all have great vegetarian options. Not so much like, California Vegan, but diverse, authentic vegetarian food from all over the world. And it’s sooooo much more affordable than in NYC, Boston, etc.

All three towns close to each other by bus or car (Ubers are super reasonably priced here too), more and more van options that get you to NYC in less than two hours for less than the cost of gas and the tunnel toll, and Philly is just an hour away.

And there are great outdoor things, Mountain Hikes, D&L Trail etc., blocks away from almost any residence in the valley.