Understanding the cost of living in any state is key to managing and getting the most out of your finances. Whether you live in Pennsylvania and are looking for a new apartment or are moving to the state because of a job relocation or new career, knowing the costs is first priority! One of the biggest cost considerations is rent — experts recommend spending no more than 30% of your monthly income on rent. Finding an apartment that suits your budget and standard of living is key to managing your finances and overall well-being.
The cost of living in Central Pennsylvania is typically lower compared to other major cities in surrounding states, making it an ideal place to build a career, pursue your studies or settle down.
Cost of living refers to the amount of money you spend to maintain your standard of living. The costs of housing, groceries, gas, taxes and other essentials vary from state to state and even from city to city, so the cost of living is location-specific.
The good news is that, overall, the cost of living in Pennsylvania is lower than the national average. However, this is relative. For example, the cost of living in Allentown — one of Pennsylvania’s most expensive cities — is 6% higher than the United States average. The most cost-effective Pennsylvania city is Erie, where the cost of living is 10% lower than the national average.
A report from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis shows that the average personal consumption expenditures (PCEs) for adults in Pennsylvania was $53,703 in 2022. Another report on the cost of living by Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) placed Pennsylvania 27th in a list that ranked U.S. states from lowest to highest cost of living.
Central Pennsylvania offers a bustling and diverse landscape — there are small towns and big cities, natural beauties to uncover, and opportunities of all kinds. Choosing to rent in Central Pennsylvania can be a positive decision, and the best part is that there are apartments to fit a variety of budgets and size requirements. Even so, it’s good to keep in mind that rent prices are subject to fluctuations and will rise and fall depending on what is happening with the economy locally, nationally and globally. These average rent prices are a good starting point when you are looking for an apartment, but they can vary depending on many factors.
Harrisburg is Pennsylvania’s capital city. It is regarded as one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania and was heralded as the 38th best place to live in the United States, according to U.S. News & World Report — a major achievement considering how extensive the list is.
Despite these high rankings, Harrisburg is a relatively affordable city for renters, with studio apartments in Harrisburg starting from just over $800 per month. The cost of living in Harrisburg is comparable to the U.S. average, but it is still one of the more budget-friendly cities in Central Pennsylvania. Here is a look at the average prices of apartments to rent in Harrisburg:
Mechanicsburg’s rent is slightly more than the rent in Harrisburg. The cost of rent for apartments in Mechanicsburg varies from slightly under $1,000 to just under $2,000 a month:
Middletown is a borough in Daphne Country, situated on the Susquehanna River. Middletown’s rent is quite affordable. These are the average prices of renting in Middletown:
This borough in Cumberland County is a few miles southwest of Harrisburg. The cost of living in Camp Hill is higher than Harrisburg and the Pennsylvania average. Renting in Camp Hill is more on par with prices in Mechanicsburg:
The cost of renting in Enola is similar to renting in Harrisburg and other locations in Pennsylvania. The area offers a good quality of life at a lower price point than similar cities across the states. The costs of renting in Enola follow these price ranges:
Carlise, an agricultural region and borough in Cumberland County, is located around 20 miles southwest of Harrisburg. Depending on the size of the home you are looking for, rent in Carlisle can be more or less expensive than similar locations in Pennsylvania:
New Cumberland is a borough in easternmost Cumberland County. Though rent for all-sized homes has gone up in New Cumberland, the average rent is still comparable to the national average. One can expect to pay these averages in New Cumberland:
Finding a rental that matches your budget doesn’t need to be complicated! Whether you are looking for a studio apartment or a spacious four-bedroom home, Triple Crown Corporation can help you find your next Central Pennsylvania home with our range of professional real estate services.
We have a wide selection of rental apartments in well-located residential communities throughout Central Pennsylvania. Our communities offer you a safe and diverse living environment whether you live alone, with a partner or with your family. Contact us today to learn more about our residential communities and to discuss your perfect rental!
