Allentown, PA

Below Avg · 79

Pennsylvania · Population 125,320 · Updated March 2026

$1,269
Median Rent / Month
$53,403
Median Income
$188,900
Median Home Value
$1,243
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Allentown

28.5%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

Tax Burden in Pennsylvania

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

3.07%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.0%
Sales Tax
1.49%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$15,228
Annual Rent
$1,639
State Income Tax
$2,815
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Allentown is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 79 (where 100 equals the national median), Allentown residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,269/month while earning a median household income of $53,403/year.

The median home value in Allentown, PA is $188,900, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,243 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 28.5%, Allentown falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

Pennsylvania has a moderate income tax rate of 3.07%. Combined with a 6.0% sales tax rate and 1.49% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Allentown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Allentown

What is the cost of living in Allentown, PA?
The cost of living index in Allentown, PA is 79 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,269, median household income is $53,403/year, and the median home value is $188,900.
Is Allentown, PA affordable?
Yes, Allentown is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 79. The rent-to-income ratio is 28.5%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Allentown, PA?
The median gross rent in Allentown, PA is $1,269 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $15,228.
What is the median household income in Allentown?
The median household income in Allentown, PA is $53,403 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has a top income tax rate of 3.07%, a sales tax of 6.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.49%.

Compare Allentown With

Similar-sized cities to compare