Pennsylvania continues to be a popular choice for those seeking affordable living in the U.S., particularly due to its lower housing costs, tax benefits, and reasonable cost of living.
While property prices have been rising across the state, many areas remain incredibly affordable, especially compared to national averages.
The top 10 cheapest places to live in Pennsylvania still feature homes averaging under $300,000, so it’s worth the consideration for retirees and young professionals looking to save money.
Bradford is one of the state’s most affordable cities, with a cost of living of 29.4% below the national average.
Meanwhile, Oil City isn’t far behind, being 27.6% more affordable than most of the country.
Then, there’s Erie, known for its peaceful atmosphere. It offers homes averaging $181K, which is why this location is loved among retirees seeking affordability and tranquility.
Here’s a breakdown of Pennsylvania’s top 10 cities based on median home values, rental prices, and cost of living:
- Sharon
Median home value: $66,570 | Rent: $875 | Cost of living: 21% below national average. Sharon’s housing prices are 83.4% lower than the national average. Thanks to its location along the Shenango River, the city also has water activities.
- Oil City
Median home value: $90,255 | Rent: $991 | Cost of living: 27.6% below the national average. Known for its historical significance in the oil industry, Oil City offers affordable living alongside cultural landmarks like the Courthouse and the Palace Theater.
- Johnstown
Median home value: $99,117 | Rent: $900 | Cost of living: 24.3% below national average. The city benefits from a strong local economy, led by the Conemaugh Health System and Concurrent Technologies, and attracts large crowds during the “Thunder in the Valley” motorcycle rally.
- Altoona
Median home value: $138,150 | Rent: $975 | Cost of living: 22.8% below national average. With transportation costs 17.6% below average, Altoona is not only affordable but also rich in historical charm with its renowned railroad history.
- Erie
Median home value: $181,617 | Rent: $995 | Cost of living: 19.2% below national average. Erie, often referred to as the “Flagship City,” is a prime destination for retirees, offering affordable healthcare, utilities, and a relaxed pace of life.
- Williamsport
Median home value: $192,377 | Rent: $3,500 | Cost of living: 15% below national average. Williamsport’s economy is thriving, especially in the education, healthcare, and technology sectors, while living costs are significantly lower than national averages.
- Reading
Median home value: $241,446 | Rent: $1,363 | Cost of living: 6% below national average. Reading is a diverse and vibrant city that offers job opportunities within all sectors while keeping living expenses affordable.
- Bradford
Median home value: $108,863 | Rent: $800 | Cost of living: 29.4% below national average. This small town offers excellent affordability, with grocery costs 4.6% lower than the national average and major employers like Zippo and KOA Speer Electronics.
- Lancaster
Median home value: $352,096 | Rent: $1,550 | Cost of living: 0.5% below national average. Lancaster balances affordable housing and employment opportunities, with major employers like Lancaster General Hospital offering stability in the local job market.
- Pottsville
Median home value: $135,117 | Rent: $1,050 | Cost of living: 22.2% below national average. Pottsville’s low transportation costs make it an affordable choice for those looking for a safe, small-town environment, while its proximity to major cities offers convenient access to urban amenities.
For those looking to relocate to Pennsylvania, cities like Sharon, Oil City, and Johnstown offer some of the lowest home prices in the state, so they’re ideal for first-time homebuyers.
However, larger cities like Reading and Lancaster may offer better job prospects despite being slightly more expensive.
If you’re considering a move to the Keystone State, it’s essential to carefully research local home prices and living costs to ensure you’re choosing the right place for your lifestyle.
And don’t forget—getting pre-approved for a mortgage can give you an edge in the competitive Pennsylvania housing market.
