Johnstown, PA

Very Low · 32

Pennsylvania · Population 18,245 · Updated March 2026

$616
Median Rent / Month
$34,784
Median Income
$42,100
Median Home Value
$561
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Johnstown

21.3%
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

$7,392
Annual Rent
$1,068
State Income Tax
$627
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Johnstown is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 32 (where 100 equals the national median), Johnstown residents can expect to pay median rent of $616/month while earning a median household income of $34,784/year.

The median home value in Johnstown, PA is $42,100, with typical monthly owner costs around $561 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 21.3% 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 Johnstown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Johnstown

What is the cost of living in Johnstown, PA?
The cost of living index in Johnstown, PA is 32 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $616, median household income is $34,784/year, and the median home value is $42,100.
Is Johnstown, PA affordable?
Yes, Johnstown is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 32. The rent-to-income ratio is 21.3%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Johnstown, PA?
The median gross rent in Johnstown, PA is $616 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $7,392.
What is the median household income in Johnstown?
The median household income in Johnstown, PA is $34,784 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%.