Looking to move to Western PA

Hi everyone! 26F and I’ll be moving from Raleigh NC this coming year with my dog & I’ve narrowed down to Western PA (Pittsburgh/suburbs & State College area) & Northern MI but I can’t decide where! I work remotely so jobs aren’t a consideration. Hoping to get any insight from you guys.

Things I’m looking for:

- Young Adult community (not into bars or partying but I do like the atmosphere of breweries that allow dogs)

- Great hiking/walking trails that are easily accessible - I have a Goldendoodle who I hike with once a weekday morning so ideally trails within 15-30 mins)

- Housing Affordability - will rent the first year or so but eventually want to buy a house, budget would be around $250k

- Lakes/Rivers you can SUP, Kayak, Swim, etc. Raleigh has very dirty & germ infested lakes & I love the water

- Community Events - meet up groups (ex. Sports leagues, sports games to attend (baseball, football, good with minor league, college, professional, etc) Walking or run clubs, book clubs, etc.)

- Seasons - I’m from the Midwest & I miss snow & colder weather

- Smallish Population - thinking 70k or less? I want the feel of a smaller town with walkability & community but understand this is hard to come by

- I’m a Christian so Church options are required (already have a fee in mind but thought I should add)

Things I don’t like about Raleigh:

- Big city - so many people, so many bad drivers, etc. I know Pittsburgh is bigger city so also why I’m looking at suburbs. I wouldn’t mind living more in the city proper for a year before deciding to buy - I just hate big cities & the rush/crowded culture they tend to have

- Weather - always hot, always humid, no seasons

- Lack of outdoor recreation

- More geared towards party crowd. Not a lot of people who share same interests as me (outdoors, fitness, reading, baking, etc. - basically I have elderly hobbies lol)

- Expensive!!

- The safety aspect can be hit or miss as a single female - also numerous car breakins even in nicer areas

Any insight would be amazing & I greatly appreciate it!!