Altoona, PA

Very Low · 49

Pennsylvania · Population 43,508 · Updated March 2026

$789
Median Rent / Month
$50,171
Median Income
$113,600
Median Home Value
$773
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Altoona

18.9%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

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

$9,468
Annual Rent
$1,540
State Income Tax
$1,693
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Altoona is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 49 (where 100 equals the national median), Altoona residents can expect to pay median rent of $789/month while earning a median household income of $50,171/year.

The median home value in Altoona, PA is $113,600, with typical monthly owner costs around $773 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

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 Altoona.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Altoona

What is the cost of living in Altoona, PA?
The cost of living index in Altoona, PA is 49 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $789, median household income is $50,171/year, and the median home value is $113,600.
Is Altoona, PA affordable?
Yes, Altoona is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 49. The rent-to-income ratio is 18.9%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Altoona, PA?
The median gross rent in Altoona, PA is $789 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $9,468.
What is the median household income in Altoona?
The median household income in Altoona, PA is $50,171 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%.