Pennsylvania, known as the "Keystone State", is a moderately affordable Mid-Atlantic state with diverse regional costs. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Keystone State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Pennsylvania for a single person earning the median income of $67,600/year:
Each category shows how Pennsylvania compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Pennsylvania.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Pennsylvania.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Pennsylvania:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Pennsylvania, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Pennsylvania is $265,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,050/month. With a housing cost index of 83, Pennsylvania housing is 17% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Pennsylvania is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of 3.07%. On the median household income of $67,600, you will pay approximately $2,075/year in state income tax ($173/month). This is below the national average — a tax advantage for Pennsylvania residents.
The average single person in Pennsylvania spends approximately $410/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,025-$1,230/month. The food cost index of 100 means groceries in Pennsylvania are 0% below the national average.
Gas prices in Pennsylvania average $3.45/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $2,070/year in fuel costs.
Pennsylvania healthcare costs are 1% below the national average (index: 99). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Pennsylvania is approximately $5,940 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Pennsylvania averages $1,050/month ($12,600/year). This is a substantial but manageable expense for dual-income households. Many families in Pennsylvania find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Pennsylvania offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get access to growing job markets in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all Pennsylvania financial calculators:
Pennsylvania (PA) has a cost of living index of 94, meaning it is 6% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 83. The median rent is $1,050/month and the median home price is $265,000. Pennsylvania ranks #24 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Pennsylvania is approximately $87,880/year ($7,323/month). For a family of four, aim for $148,720/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($410/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Pennsylvania is $67,600.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Pennsylvania is approximately $1,050/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,418/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Pennsylvania is affordable compared to the national average.
Pennsylvania is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 6% below the national average and median rent of just $1,050/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown.
The most affordable areas in Pennsylvania are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Pennsylvania, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Philadelphia metro) and more affordable areas. Erie and Reading tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Pennsylvania for a single person is approximately $410 ($1,025 for a family of four). Pennsylvania food costs are 0% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Pennsylvania is approximately $145. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $319/month. Pennsylvania utilities are 7% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of 3.07%. On the median household income of $67,600, that is approximately $2,075/year in state income tax. This is below the national average — a tax advantage.