Radon Levels in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is classified as an EPA Zone 1 state with a very high risk for radon. Average indoor radon levels range from 4 to 9 pCi/L, and approximately 41% of Pennsylvania homes test above the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L.
Pennsylvania Radon Summary
High Radon Risk State
Pennsylvania is among the higher-risk states for residential radon. The Pennsylvania Department of Health strongly recommends that all residents test their homes. If you have not tested your home, consider ordering a test kit or radon detector today.
Key Facts About Radon in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania has among the highest radon levels in the eastern US
- Reading Prong geology (SE Pennsylvania) was where radon was first identified as a home hazard in the 1980s
- Over 40% of Pennsylvania homes test above the action level
- PA DEP maintains one of the country's most comprehensive radon programs
- The historic Watras discovery in Boyertown, PA launched national radon awareness
Pennsylvania Testing Requirements & Recommendations
Pennsylvania strongly recommends testing and requires disclosure in real estate. The PA DEP provides low-cost test kits.
Pennsylvania has extensive certified radon mitigation resources given the longstanding awareness of the issue.
Major Cities in Pennsylvania
Radon levels can vary significantly within Pennsylvania depending on local geology. All residents — regardless of city — should test their specific home, as neighborhood-level radon varies independently of broader state and county averages.
What Should Pennsylvania Residents Do?
Test Your Home
Use a short-term charcoal test kit ($15–$25) for an initial reading, or a continuous radon detector for ongoing monitoring. Test in your basement or lowest livable area.
Understand Your Result
If your result is below 2.0 pCi/L: monitor periodically. Between 2.0–4.0 pCi/L: consider mitigation. Above 4.0 pCi/L: the EPA recommends mitigation. Above 8.0 pCi/L: take action promptly.
Hire a Certified Contractor if Needed
Look for NRPP or NRSB-certified radon mitigation contractors in Pennsylvania. Mitigation systems typically cost $800–$2,500 and can reduce radon levels by 50–99%.
Verify with a Follow-Up Test
After mitigation, test again to confirm the system is working. Retest every 2 years, or after significant home renovations.
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