The hurricanes in 1635, 1667,1693 and 1788 may have been major hurricanes. And a close miss in 1869. Others of interest are the 2 hurricanes in 1815 and the hurricane in 1849.
I've never understood why some people want to experience a hurricane on the scale of the 1938 hurricane. . The devastation would be unimaginable. People complained about being locked down during the Covid-19 situation. The aftermath and quality of life following a hurricane similar to the one in 38 would make the lockdown seem as if it was some very minor inconvenience.
Taxes on govt pension and SS have to be given strong consideration so I fully understand why PA is appealing to you. Pittsburgh is a great city. Home prices in that area are far more reasonable than in Ma. Great area for hs,college and pro sports.