Harrisburg, PA

Very Low · 59

Pennsylvania · Population 50,092 · Updated March 2026

$996
Median Rent / Month
$47,783
Median Income
$121,000
Median Home Value
$994
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Harrisburg

25.0%
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

$11,952
Annual Rent
$1,467
State Income Tax
$1,803
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Harrisburg is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 59 (where 100 equals the national median), Harrisburg residents can expect to pay median rent of $996/month while earning a median household income of $47,783/year.

The median home value in Harrisburg, PA is $121,000, with typical monthly owner costs around $994 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 25.0%, Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Harrisburg

What is the cost of living in Harrisburg, PA?
The cost of living index in Harrisburg, PA is 59 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $996, median household income is $47,783/year, and the median home value is $121,000.
Is Harrisburg, PA affordable?
Yes, Harrisburg is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 59. The rent-to-income ratio is 25.0%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Harrisburg, PA?
The median gross rent in Harrisburg, PA is $996 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,952.
What is the median household income in Harrisburg?
The median household income in Harrisburg, PA is $47,783 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%.