New Kensington

Why New Kensington?

New Kensington’s story is shaped by reinvention. Once defined by heavy industry and its close ties to Alcoa, the city is now investing in a new economic future built on technology, small business growth, and community collaboration. The redevelopment of the former Alcoa site into the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park—and ongoing improvements to the Schreiber Industrial Park—signal a growing base for high-tech and light manufacturing.

Along Fifth Avenue, the Corridor of Innovation reflects the city’s forward-looking momentum. Anchored by The Corner, Penn State New Kensington’s tech incubator and co-working hub, the district supports startups, visiting businesses, and local entrepreneurs. Paired with public art, active small businesses, and neighborhood-led improvements, New Kensington offers a close-knit community embracing new ideas and working together to shape a stronger future.

Reasons To Be Here

Cost of living:

15% lower than

the national average

Median Housing Cost:

$150,000

A Low Cost of Living

1% less than

Pittsburgh, PA

18% less than

Philadelphia, PA

46% less than

Washington, DC

78% less than

New York, NY

Within 500 miles of 50% of the
US population and 20% of
Canada’s population

Pittsburgh, PA – 30m

Philadelphia, PA – 5h 5m

Washington, DC – 4h 15m

New York, NY – 6h

Cleveland, OH – 2h 20m

Columbus, OH – 3h 25m

Niagara Falls, ON, Canada – 3h 55m

Toronto, ON, Canada – 5h 20m

ACRE New Kensington Partners

As the anchor of New Kensington’s Corridor of Innovation, The Corner supports entrepreneurs, small businesses, and visiting teams through co-working, technology resources, and business development programs. It also houses Corner LaunchBox, part of Invent Penn State’s statewide initiative to advance economic development, job creation, and student success—making The Corner a key hub for innovation in New Kensington.

The New Kensington Downtown Partnership is a nonprofit organization focused on strengthening the city’s economic and cultural vitality. NKDP supports initiatives such as night markets, public art, beautification projects, and community events—bringing residents, businesses, and partners together to advance downtown revitalization.

ACRE New Kensington Creatives

Past & Future

New Kensington’s growth accelerated after World War I, when Alcoa’s expanding operations earned it the nickname “Aluminum City” and turned its downtown into a regional commercial destination. The city’s fortunes shifted with industrial decline and Alcoa’s departure in the 1970s and 80s, leaving lasting economic challenges. In recent years, however, local leaders, longtime residents, and new partners have focused on rebuilding—revitalizing historic corridors, supporting small businesses, and investing in public art and community-minded development. These steady, collaborative efforts reflect a city working to honor its past while shaping a more resilient future.

Why New Kensington?

A Low Cost of Living

Within 500 miles of 50% of the US population and 20% of Canada’s population

AKLW Gemstone Jewelry

Art in Beauty Studio

Heather Heitzenrater

James Joseph Designs

Melissa Jackson Photography

Lorenzo Boone

Tight-N-Tone Fitness Studio

Poduty Live

Waterhouse Pottery

Uncle Dave’s Art Studio

Past & Future

Resources for Creatives

Within 500 miles of 50% of the
US population and 20% of
Canada’s population