Your Complete Guide to Moving to Hershey, PA as a Penn State Medical Resident
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Relocating to a new city is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming at the same time. If you’re moving to Hershey, Pennsylvania, for a Penn State Health residency or fellowship program, you’re joining a community that combines small-town convenience with access to major cities throughout the northeast.
From choosing the right neighborhood and finding housing near Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center to arranging storage and moving logistics, a little preparation goes a long way. This guide covers the essentials so you can spend less time worrying about your move and more time getting ready for residency.
Key Takeaways
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What to Know Before Moving to Hershey
Hershey may be best known for chocolate, but for Penn State Medical residents, it’s also a place to call home during school and receive medical training.
One of Hershey’s biggest advantages is its location. While the community maintains a quieter suburban feel, you’re still within easy driving distance of cities like Harrisburg, Lancaster, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. This gives residents access to major airports, entertainment, professional sports, and weekend getaway opportunities.
Residents appreciate the short commute options available near campus. No matter where you live, getting to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center can take just a few minutes.
You’ll also experience all four seasons in central Pennsylvania. Winters are generally between 23 and 50 degrees, manageable compared to many northeastern cities, while spring and fall offer comfortable weather and scenic outdoor recreation opportunities. Summers are typically warm, and highs typically never reach over 100 degrees, making it a great time to explore local parks, outdoor events, and everything the Hershey area has to offer before the demands of residency fully ramp up.
Where to Live in Hershey During Residency
Finding the right place to live in Hershey is one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make before arriving. Hershey offers a variety of housing options that fit different budgets and lifestyles.
Overview of Living in Downtown Hershey
Downtown Hershey is a popular option for residents wanting easy access to restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, and local events.
Living downtown allows you to enjoy many daily conveniences without traveling far from home. Housing options typically include apartments, townhomes, and smaller rental properties.
Here’s an overview of living in Downtown Hershey:
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At a Glance |
Details |
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Commute to Medical Center |
~5–10 minutes |
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Housing Types |
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Best For |
Walkability and convenience |
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Lifestyle |
Restaurants, coffee shops, and local events |
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Average Cost |
~$1,500–$2,500/month |
*Estimated rental ranges based on typical market availability. Actual pricing varies by property size, location, amenities, and market conditions.
Overview of Living in East or West Hershey
The east and west areas of Hershey provide additional housing inventory and may offer more space than most downtown properties. If you work in Hershey, but need to live close to the water, Harrisburg is also a great option.
Residents with partners, children, or pets often look for rental homes in East and West Hershey. While housing styles vary, residents appreciate the balance between convenience and residential atmosphere.
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At a Glance |
Details |
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Commute to Medical Center |
~10–15 minutes |
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Housing Types |
Townhomes, single-family rentals |
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Best For |
More space and family living |
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Lifestyle |
Residential neighborhoods |
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Average Cost |
~$1,800–$3,200/month |
*Estimated rental ranges based on typical market availability. Actual pricing varies by property size, location, amenities, and market conditions.
Nearby Alternatives for Additional Housing Options
If living in Hershey isn’t the right fit for you, nearby communities like Hummelstown, Palmyra, and Harrisburg can provide additional options. Residents who choose these nearby neighborhoods appreciate the affordability, larger living spaces, or personal lifestyle preferences. However, most remain within a reasonable commuting distance of the medical center.
Living in Hershey as a Medical Resident
Residency is demanding, which makes your time away from the hospital especially valuable. Here’s what you can expect for your daily life in Hershey, things to do, and local spots.
Commuting to the Medical Center
One of the advantages of living in Hershey is the potential for a short commute. Many residents can reach the campus in less than 15 minutes, depending on where they live. Penn State Medical Center also offers a shuttle service to make getting around campus even easier. Plus if you have an electric vehicle, there are vehicle charging stations available.
Living in Hershey with a Partner or Family
Many residents relocate with spouses, partners, children, or pets. Hershey's residential neighborhoods, schools, and family-friendly amenities make it an attractive option for households in every stage of life.
Things to Do Outside of Work
When you have free time, you'll find plenty to explore in the area. Residents can enjoy local parks, seasonal events, entertainment venues, and weekend trips throughout Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic region.
You can explore more of the attractions on the Hershey website.
Restaurants, Coffee Shops, and Grocery Stores
Whether you're grabbing coffee before rounds, meeting co-residents after work, or stocking up for the week, Hershey offers a variety of dining and shopping options close to home.
Fitness, Parks, and Outdoor Recreation
Maintaining a healthy routine during residency can be challenging. Fortunately, Hershey offers access to parks, walking trails, fitness centers, and outdoor recreation opportunities year-round.
The Hershey Country Club is a great option for outdoor activities and fitness.
Planning Your Move to Hershey
Moving for residency often means balancing relocation logistics with graduation, licensing requirements, onboarding, and travel.
Create a Resident Relocation Timeline
60+ Days Before Move
- Begin researching neighborhoods
- Establish a housing budget
- Request moving quotes
30 Days Before Move
- Secure housing
- Reserve moving equipment
- Schedule utility transfers
Two Weeks Before Move
- Finish packing
- Confirm move dates
- Update your address
Move-In Week
- Set up utilities
- Explore the area
- Prepare for orientation
Budget for Moving Expenses
Common relocation costs include:
- Moving equipment
- Fuel and travel expenses
- Security deposits
- Utility setup fees
- Temporary storage
- Packing supplies
Planning for these expenses ahead of time can help prevent unexpected costs. You can also use our Downloadable Moving Costs Checklist for further details and to help stay organized.
Storage and Moving Resources in Hershey
Many residents need temporary storage while transitioning between leases, moving from out of state, or coordinating move-in dates. This means you need a solid moving and storage solution that won’t leave you out in the dust when you need it most. The best part about a one-way move to Hershey with U-Haul is that you’re eligible for a free month of storage!
Storage Near Penn State Medical
Storage can provide flexibility if your new home isn't ready immediately or if you're downsizing before your move. Plus, the size of a storage unit in Hershey is important to know if you’re moving there.
Learn more about What Fits in a Storage Unit? Complete Size Guide for Hershey Residents.
U-Box® Containers for Flexible Storage
U-Box® containers offer a convenient option for residents moving long-distance or managing a move around a busy schedule. You can load containers on your timeline and store them if needed before delivery.
U-Haul Truck Rentals in Hershey
For residents planning a DIY move, U-Haul® moving trucks provide a flexible way to relocate to Hershey. Cargo vans are a great option for college moves and can be picked up and dropped off 24/7 at the local Hershey U-Haul center.
Learn How to Choose the Right Size Moving Truck Rental.
U-Haul Trailer Rentals in Hershey
If you need a reliable trailer rental before unloading into your new home or storage unit, then U-Haul has you covered. U-Haul trailer rentals are reliable and routinely serviced to keep your move going.
Get a trailer rental at U-Haul Moving & Storage of Hershey.
Moving Supplies in Hershey
If you need moving supplies, U-Haul of Hershey has you covered! With moving boxes, packing supplies, moving and lifting tools, and so much more, you can get all the moving resources for your move all in one place!
Moving Help® Marketplace
The Moving Help® Marketplace connects customers with independent Service Providers who offer labor-only moving services, including loading, unloading, packing, unpacking, and cleaning assistance.
Ready to move to Hershey? U-Haul can help with truck and trailer rentals, self-storage, U-Box containers, moving supplies, and Moving Help services so you can focus on starting residency.
Moving Made Easier®
U-Haul has the largest selection of trucks for your move.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Hershey
Is Hershey, Pennsylvania, a good place to live?
Many Penn State Medical residents enjoy Hershey's combination of short commutes, suburban convenience, outdoor recreation, and easy access to larger cities.
What is the population of Hershey, Pennsylvania?
Currently, Hershey, Pennsylvania, has a population of approximately 14,352.
What is Hershey, PA's ZIP code?
The main ZIP code for Hershey, Pennsylvania, is 17033.
Where do Penn State Medical residents usually live?
Many residents live in Hershey itself, particularly near the Medical Center, while others choose Hummelstown, Palmyra, or nearby communities.
How much does housing cost in Hershey?
Rental costs vary by property type and location, but many residents can expect apartments and townhomes to range from an estimated $1,300 to $2,500 per month.
What storage options are available near Penn State Medical?
Residents can choose from self-storage facilities and portable storage options such as U-Box containers.
Can I rent a U-Haul truck in Hershey, PA?
Yes. U-Haul offers moving truck rentals, storage, trailers, towing equipment, moving supplies, and U-Box containers in the Hershey area.
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