Death Records in Major Pennsylvania Cities
Pennsylvania's largest cities have their own rich histories of vital records. Philadelphia began recording deaths in 1860, Pittsburgh in 1870, and several other cities kept local records before the state took over in 1906. Today, certified death certificates for all Pennsylvania cities are issued through the state Division of Vital Records in New Castle. Local county courthouses and city archives may hold older records. Use the city pages below to find guidance on death records, historical vital statistics, and local resources in Pennsylvania's major urban areas.