Cost of Living in Pennsylvania: Average Rent, Groceries, Utilities, and More

Pennsylvania offers a unique mix of urban energy, historic charm, and scenic landscapes—without completely breaking the bank. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Philadelphia, the rolling hills of the countryside, or the quirky vibe of Pittsburgh, the cost of living in Pennsylvania is manageable. While housing costs have seen increases in some areas, overall, the state remains relatively affordable compared to many of its northeastern neighbors. Let’s dive into the details of what living in Pennsylvania might actually cost you.

Housing costs: Median home prices and average rent in Pennsylvania

Housing costs are typically the most substantial factor to consider when evaluating the cost of living in Pennsylvania. You’ll find that there’s a mix of affordability and pricier options, depending on where you live in the state. The average rent in Pennsylvania sits at $1,490, below the national average rent of $1,645, but urban hotspots like Philadelphia can quickly push rental prices higher, while smaller cities and rural areas remain more budget-friendly. Home prices in Pennsylvania are significantly less than the national median home sale price though. This means homeownership here is much more attainable compared to a majority of other states. Whether you’re eyeing the buzz of city life or the calm of suburban spaces, housing options vary greatly.

PA housing costs: Average rents and median home sale prices

Housing costs in popular cities in Pennsylvania

Erie

The cost of living in Pennsylvania is relatively low in Erie, especially when compared to major cities in the state. With average rent in Pennsylvania hovering around $1,490, Erie provides substantial savings. Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment averages $1,110, while a 2-bedroom comes in at $1,240. For those interested in homeownership, the median home sale price is a bargain at $134,000, well below the national median of $439,000. This makes Erie an attractive option for those seeking affordable housing with the added benefit of picturesque lakeside living.

Harrisburg

As Pennsylvania’s capital, Harrisburg offers a more affordable housing market compared to major urban centers. A one-bedroom apartment here averages $1,275, and a two-bedroom is about $1,480, both below the average rent in Pennsylvania. The median home price sits at a modest $148,000, well under the state and national averages, offering affordability that appeals to a wide range of residents. Harrisburg’s lower cost of living, combined with its riverside charm and proximity to state government jobs, makes it a great choice for those seeking more value in their living expenses.

Philadelphia 

As Pennsylvania’s largest city, Philadelphia has a much higher cost of living compared to other parts of the state. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,820, while a two-bedroom apartment typically rents for $2,100. While these rates are above the average rent in Pennsylvania of $1,490, they still fall within a reasonable range for an urban environment of Philadelphia’s size and vibrancy. The median price of homes for sale in Philadelphia is around $265,000, which is well below the national median of $428,000 but could be considered high compared to home prices in the state. However, for those seeking the energy of a major metropolitan area, rich cultural experiences, and proximity to top universities and employers, Philadelphia offers value beyond its price tag.

Read more: Pros and Cons of Living in Philadelphia | What is Philadelphia known for?

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, once a steel industry powerhouse, has transformed into a hub for technology and education, with a cost of living that remains moderate for a larger city. In Pittsburgh, you’ll find a one-bedroom at about $1,630 and a two-bedroom averaging $2,040, well above both the average rent in Pennsylvania ($1,490) and the national average rent ($1,645). Similar to Philadelphia, the median home price here is around $240,000, lower than the national median but higher than many smaller Pennsylvania cities. The city’s mix of cultural attractions, job opportunities, and the picturesque setting of its three rivers make Pittsburgh an attractive option, even if housing costs are on the rise.

Read more: 14 Pros and Cons of Living in Pittsburgh, PA | 9 Unique Things to Do in Pittsburgh

Expect to pay higher utility costs in Pennsylvania

Utility costs in Pennsylvania tend to be higher than the national average, especially when it comes to energy bills. On average, monthly utility expenses, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, can reach around $200-$250. One reason for this is Pennsylvania’s reliance on natural gas and coal for heating during the cold winters, which can significantly drive up costs. Additionally, the state experiences a full range of seasons, meaning higher heating bills in the winter and increased air conditioning use during the humid summers. For those planning to move to Pennsylvania, it’s wise to budget for these seasonal fluctuations, as energy bills in urban hubs like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh can be particularly steep due to the density and age of housing stock, which may lack modern insulation. Understanding these factors can help newcomers better gauge their overall cost of living in Pennsylvania.

Utility bill comparisons: PA cities vs. nationwide average

Grocery costs are on the higher end, contributing to the cost of living in Pennsylvania

Grocery costs in Pennsylvania are notably higher than the national average, with residents spending about 13% more on their monthly food bills. This increase is largely influenced by the state’s mix of urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, where higher demand and logistical costs drive up prices. While rural areas might offer some relief with local produce, the overall trend leans toward pricier groceries compared to other states. For those considering a move, it’s worth factoring in these elevated food costs when estimating the overall cost of living in Pennsylvania.

Transportation costs can drive up monthly expenses in Pennsylvania

Transportation costs in Pennsylvania can significantly affect your budget, especially if you own a car. Gas prices average around $3.25 per gallon, notably higher than the national average of $3.07, driven by some of the highest gas taxes in the country. Beyond fuel, car owners should prepare for additional expenses like tolls, which are common on major routes like the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Annual vehicle registration costs $42, but other yearly expenses like state inspections, emissions tests, and general maintenance can easily add up, especially given the harsh winters and pothole-prone roads. Car insurance in Pennsylvania also tends to be on the higher side, averaging around $1,400 per year depending on coverage, location, and driving history.

For those opting for public transportation, Philadelphia offers the SEPTA system, with extensive options including buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail. A monthly SEPTA pass costs about $100, making it a more affordable alternative to driving, especially when factoring in parking fees and city traffic. Pittsburgh’s public transit, run by the Port Authority, includes buses and light rail, with monthly passes ranging from $97 to $146 depending on the zones traveled. However, public transit options are limited in smaller towns and rural areas, making car ownership a necessity for most residents. Whether you’re navigating city streets or driving across the state, understanding these transportation costs is key when assessing the overall cost of living in Pennsylvania.

Healthcare costs are moderate in Pennsylvania and vary by region

Healthcare costs in Pennsylvania can vary widely depending on your personal needs, the type of coverage you have, and where you live. Generally, medical services like routine checkups and specialist visits tend to align with the national average, but prices can differ based on the region. For instance, visiting a dentist in Philadelphia will set you back around $110, slightly below the national average of $116.86. However, seeing a doctor there costs about $144, just above the national average of $142.74. In smaller cities like Erie, healthcare is a bit more affordable, with dentist visits costing around $98 and doctor visits at $132. In Scranton, you’ll find dental visits averaging $104, while seeing a doctor costs about $108, which is significantly lower than the national average.

While Pennsylvania has many reputable hospitals and medical centers, urban areas typically see higher healthcare costs due to increased demand and overhead. Additionally, insurance plans and coverage levels can significantly impact out-of-pocket expenses. Understanding the local healthcare landscape is crucial for anyone moving to the state, especially when factoring it into the overall cost of living in Pennsylvania.

Taxes in Pennsylvania are manageable

Taxes in Pennsylvania are an important factor when considering the cost of living in Pennsylvania.  The state has a flat 3.07% income tax rate, which is relatively low compared to many other states, but some localities, such as Philadelphia, impose additional local income taxes, which can increase the total tax burden for residents. When it comes to shopping, the state levies a 6.00% sales tax, with the combined state and local sales tax rate averaging 6.34%, which falls within the national average range of 5% to 7%. For drivers, the state’s 58.7-cent per gallon gas tax is one of the highest in the country, contributing to higher fuel costs.

How much do I need to earn to live in Pennsylvania?

To determine how much you should earn to live comfortably in Pennsylvania, the “30% rule” is a good guideline, which suggests you spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on housing. With the average rent in Pennsylvania at about $1,490, you’d need to earn around $4,967 per month, or roughly $59,600 annually, to stay within this range. For a 2-bedroom in Harrisburg, with an average rent of $1,480, the income requirement would be similar—about $59,200 per year. But in Pittsburgh, where a 2-bedroom goes for $2,040, you’d need closer to $81,600 annually. However, this is just a starting point. Your actual budget will depend on many other factors, such as utilities, transportation, groceries, and personal expenses. Everyone’s situation is different, so it’s essential to account for all costs when determining what you need to live comfortably in any city and if Pennsylvania is a good place to live for you.

Methodology

Average 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom rent sourced from Rent. Median home sale price, state average monthly rent, national rent prices, and cost of living data sourced from Redfin.