Cost of Living: Allentown, PA vs Hartford, CT (2026)

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79
VS

Hartford

Connecticut
81

Allentown and Hartford have a similar cost of living.

$1,269/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,221/mo ↓ 4%
$53,403/yr ↑ 18%
Median Income
$45,300/yr ↓ 15%
$188,900 ↓ 13%
Home Value
$217,200 ↑ 15%
$1,243/mo ↓ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,279/mo ↑ 3%
125,320
Population
119,970

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
6.99%
6.0%
Sales Tax
6.35%
1.49%
Property Tax
2.15%

Affordability

28.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
32.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Allentown, PA and Hartford, CT, the overall cost of living indices are 79 and 81 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $8,103/year higher in Allentown. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Allentown is $188,900 compared to $217,200 in Hartford.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Allentown vs Hartford — common questions

Is Allentown or Hartford cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Allentown is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 81 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Allentown and Hartford?
Median rent in Allentown is $1,269/month and in Hartford it's $1,221/month — a difference of $48/month.
Which city has higher income, Allentown or Hartford?
Median household income is $53,403 in Allentown and $45,300 in Hartford. Median household income is $8,103/year higher in Allentown.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Connecticut?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Connecticut has 6.99% income tax, 6.35% sales tax, and 2.15% property tax.
Should I move to Allentown or Hartford?
It depends on your priorities. Allentown has a cost index of 79 with median rent of $1,269/mo, while Hartford has a cost index of 81 with rent of $1,221/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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