Cost of Living: Allentown, PA vs Dearborn, MI (2026)

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79
VS

Dearborn

Michigan
79

Allentown and Dearborn have a similar cost of living.

$1,269/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,264/mo ≈ Same
$53,403/yr ↓ 18%
Median Income
$65,192/yr ↑ 22%
$188,900 ↓ 8%
Home Value
$205,900 ↑ 9%
$1,243/mo ↑ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,174/mo ↓ 6%
125,320
Population
107,846

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
4.25%
6.0%
Sales Tax
6.0%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

28.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Allentown, PA and Dearborn, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 79 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $11,789/year higher in Dearborn. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Allentown is $188,900 compared to $205,900 in Dearborn.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Allentown slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Allentown vs Dearborn — common questions

Is Allentown or Dearborn cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Dearborn is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 79 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Allentown and Dearborn?
Median rent in Allentown is $1,269/month and in Dearborn it's $1,264/month — a difference of $5/month.
Which city has higher income, Allentown or Dearborn?
Median household income is $53,403 in Allentown and $65,192 in Dearborn. Median household income is $11,789/year higher in Dearborn.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Michigan?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Allentown or Dearborn?
It depends on your priorities. Allentown has a cost index of 79 with median rent of $1,269/mo, while Dearborn has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,264/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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