Reading, PA Homeowners Can Expect a Cool and Dry Fall, Says The Old Farmer’s Almanac

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has spoken, and its Fall 2025 forecast points to some unusual seasonal twists. While much of the western U.S. is in for a warmer-than-usual autumn, the Northeast is heading into a cooler, drier stretch.

That includes Reading, Pennsylvania, where the changing leaves may come with extra crispness in the air.

At the same time, Reading has made waves on the housing front—ranking among the nation’s 50 Hottest ZIP Codes of 2025 according to Realtor.com®, a sign that homebuyers are eagerly looking beyond bigger metro markets for value.

Fall in Pennsylvania: cool, crisp, and dry

Pennsylvania is expected to see a cooler and drier fall than usual, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. The state breakdown forecasts “cool and dry” conditions across the season.

Regionally, the Northeast will be about 2°–3° cooler than average, with below-normal rainfall. September’s average will hover near 59°F, before dipping to 46°F in October.

Rainfall is poised to trend lighter than usual, according to the Almanac, with only 3.5 inches in September and 2.5 inches in October predicted. That mix of cooler temperatures and less rain could mean particularly striking fall foliage—ideal for Reading homeowners looking to enjoy weekend drives or neighborhood strolls.

This pattern follows a larger national divide: while the Atlantic Corridor and Southeast will remain warmer, regions like the Northeast, Appalachians, and Ohio Valley will join Pennsylvania in seeing cooler weather.

Reading makes the 2025 Hottest ZIP Codes List

In addition to its terrific weather outlook, Reading is also enjoying national attention as one of the Realtor.com Top 50 Hottest ZIP Codes of 2025.

Specifically, ZIP code 19607 ranked No. 31 on the list, with homes selling at a median of $293,000. Properties here drew 2.4× more views per listing than the U.S. average and sold in just 27 days—a full month faster than the typical national timeline.

Nearby, Lancaster (ZIP 17601) also made the ranking, coming in at No. 25, with a higher median listing price of $512,000 and homes staying on the market slightly longer, at 31 days. Within a short drive, Harrisburg’s Camp Hill (ZIP 17011) also landed on the list, with homes listed at $392,000.

Taken together, the rankings show strong demand across south-central Pennsylvania. Buyers are looking beyond Philadelphia’s pricier suburbs, seeking affordability in Reading and nearby towns. As Danielle Hale, Realtor.com’s chief economist, noted in the report, the hottest ZIPs represent “a housing market shaped by strategic shoppers, those who are financially ready, regionally mobile, and focused on long-term value”.

Smart September prep for Homeowners

With cooler weather on the way and buyer interest strong, it’s an excellent time for homeowners in Reading to tackle early fall maintenance. According to this helpful September maintenance checklist, small tasks now can prevent costly repairs later.

Ryan Williams, general manager at 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, advises checking walkways for cracks before icy conditions set in. “Fix walkway and entryway areas before slippery weather can cause a tripping or falling accident,” he says.

Chris Granger, VP of Sears Home Services, suggests giving siding a pressure wash after summer’s humidity. “September is a great time to use a pressure washer to clean it up—and inspect for more serious problems before winter comes”.

Other must-dos include sealing windows to prevent drafts, changing air filters to keep HVAC systems efficient, and servicing lawn equipment before storing it for winter.

This article was produced with editorial input from Dina Sartore-Bodo and Gabriella Iannetta.