Chester, PA

Very Low · 57

Pennsylvania · Population 33,209 · Updated March 2026

$1,080
Median Rent / Month
$39,809
Median Income
$85,400
Median Home Value
$983
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Chester

32.6%
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

$12,960
Annual Rent
$1,222
State Income Tax
$1,272
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Chester is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 57 (where 100 equals the national median), Chester residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,080/month while earning a median household income of $39,809/year.

The median home value in Chester, PA is $85,400, with typical monthly owner costs around $983 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. At 32.6% rent-to-income ratio, residents of Chester are spending more than the recommended 30% of income on housing, indicating moderate cost burden.

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 Chester.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Chester

What is the cost of living in Chester, PA?
The cost of living index in Chester, PA is 57 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,080, median household income is $39,809/year, and the median home value is $85,400.
Is Chester, PA affordable?
Yes, Chester is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 57. The rent-to-income ratio is 32.6%—above the 30%% affordability threshold.
What is the average rent in Chester, PA?
The median gross rent in Chester, PA is $1,080 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,960.
What is the median household income in Chester?
The median household income in Chester, PA is $39,809 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%.