Erie, PA

Very Low · 50

Pennsylvania · Population 94,156 · Updated March 2026

$836
Median Rent / Month
$43,397
Median Income
$108,200
Median Home Value
$828
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Erie

23.1%
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

$10,032
Annual Rent
$1,332
State Income Tax
$1,612
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Erie is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 50 (where 100 equals the national median), Erie residents can expect to pay median rent of $836/month while earning a median household income of $43,397/year.

The median home value in Erie, PA is $108,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $828 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 23.1% 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 Erie.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Erie

What is the cost of living in Erie, PA?
The cost of living index in Erie, PA is 50 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $836, median household income is $43,397/year, and the median home value is $108,200.
Is Erie, PA affordable?
Yes, Erie is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 50. The rent-to-income ratio is 23.1%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Erie, PA?
The median gross rent in Erie, PA is $836 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,032.
What is the median household income in Erie?
The median household income in Erie, PA is $43,397 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%.