8 iconic TV shows set in Pennsylvania

From quirky workplace comedies to gripping dramas, discover how Pennsylvania’s cities and culture have shaped some of television’s most beloved series.

Pennsylvania has starred in some of television’s most beloved shows. The Keystone State’s rich cultural tapestry—spanning bustling metropolitan hubs like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, to the rolling hills of Lancaster County—has provided the perfect backdrop for everything from quirky workplace comedies to gripping dramas.

While many of these shows weren’t actually filmed within state lines, their creators have woven authentic Pennsylvania touches into their storylines, paying homage to local landmarks, dropping regional references, and capturing the state’s distinctive character. Whether showcasing the blue-collar spirit of Scranton or the vibrant energy of South Philly, these series have helped put Pennsylvania on the pop culture map—and some have even made television history.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

The Office: Making Scranton a household name

While the Dunder Mifflin Paper Company may be fictional, this beloved mockumentary series put Scranton firmly on the cultural map during its 2005-2013 run. Actor John Krasinski went the extra mile for authenticity, visiting the Electric City before production began to film the now-iconic opening credits sequence. Though it was primarily shot in California, the show peppered in countless NEPA references, making viewers feel like they really knew the Scranton branch of this middling paper company.

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia: The city’s longest-running hit

“It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” has earned its place in television history as America’s longest-running live-action sitcom, with an impressive 16 seasons and counting since 2005. While Paddy’s Pub might be fictional, the show regularly features authentic Philadelphia locations and cityscapes. The creators’ commitment to capturing the city’s distinct personality—from South Philly attitudes to Eagles fanaticism—has made it a cultural touchstone for both locals and viewers nationwide.

This Is Us: A Pennsylvania family saga

Unlike many shows on this list, “This Is Us” actually filmed on location throughout Pennsylvania during its emotional six-season run. The time-jumping drama used Pittsburgh as the backdrop for the Pearson family’s early years, while Philadelphia served as the modern-day home for one of the siblings. The show’s authentic use of Pennsylvania locations helped ground its multi-generational story in a genuine sense of place.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Abbott Elementary: A fresh take on Philly

This mockumentary sitcom, which premiered in 2021, brings viewers inside an underfunded Philadelphia public school with both humor and heart. While following in the documentary-style footsteps of “The Office,” Abbott Elementary carves out its own identity with distinctly Philadelphia touches—from sports references to pop culture callouts. The show even ventures beyond city limits occasionally, including a memorable episode set in Reading.

Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood: A Pittsburgh institution

No discussion of Pennsylvania television would be complete without Fred Rogers’ groundbreaking children’s show. Created by Latrobe native Rogers in 1968, the show was filmed entirely in Pittsburgh throughout its run. Rogers frequently featured local guests and locations, creating a genuine connection to western Pennsylvania that continues today through its animated spin-off, “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” which also showcases regional landmarks.

Pretty Little Liars: Mystery in the suburbs

While the teen drama “Pretty Little Liars” kept viewers guessing from 2010 to 2017, its setting in the fictional suburb of Rosewood, Pa., added an atmospheric backdrop to its twisting plot lines. The show’s creators didn’t choose their setting randomly—Rosewood was inspired by the real Philadelphia suburb of Rosemont, the same community that influenced another Pennsylvania-set show, “All My Children.” For seven seasons, the series followed a group of friends who received mysterious messages after their clique’s leader disappeared, proving that even seemingly peaceful Pennsylvania suburbs can harbor dark secrets.

Mare of Easttown: A gritty Delaware County detective

HBO’s “Mare of Easttown” brought international attention to suburban Pennsylvania when it premiered, with Kate Winslet delivering a masterful performance as a small-town detective. While Easttown is a fictionalized version of Delaware County (or “Delco,” as locals know it), the show captures the authentic feel of the region’s close-knit communities. Filmed in various locations around Delaware County and Northwest Philadelphia, Winslet’s commitment to nailing the distinctive Delco accent (think: “wooder” for water; “crick” for creek) helped root the series in Pennsylvania authenticity.

The Goldbergs: A love letter to 1980s Jenkintown

Set in the very real Montgomery County suburb of Jenkintown (the hometown of one Bradley Cooper), “The Goldbergs” brings 1980s Pennsylvania to life through creator Adam F. Goldberg’s childhood memories. The show’s dedication to authenticity extends beyond its storylines to include actual local landmarks that still stand today, including the Hiway Theater, Kremp Florist, and the neighborhood Wawa. While the series films in California, it has introduced viewers nationwide to this slice of suburban Philadelphia life.

This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The Keystone staff.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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