Cost of Living: Allentown, PA vs Lakeland, FL (2026)

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79
VS

Lakeland

Florida
82

Allentown is 3% cheaper than Lakeland.

$1,269/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,299/mo ↑ 2%
$53,403/yr ↓ 12%
Median Income
$60,947/yr ↑ 14%
$188,900 ↓ 18%
Home Value
$229,100 ↑ 21%
$1,243/mo ↑ 8%
Owner Costs
$1,149/mo ↓ 8%
125,320
Population
117,030

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
Sales Tax
6.0%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

28.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Allentown, PA and Lakeland, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 79 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,544/year higher in Lakeland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Allentown is $188,900 compared to $229,100 in Lakeland.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Lakeland residents a significant tax advantage over Pennsylvania's 3.07% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Allentown vs Lakeland — common questions

Is Allentown or Lakeland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Allentown is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 82 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Allentown and Lakeland?
Median rent in Allentown is $1,269/month and in Lakeland it's $1,299/month — a difference of $30/month.
Which city has higher income, Allentown or Lakeland?
Median household income is $53,403 in Allentown and $60,947 in Lakeland. Median household income is $7,544/year higher in Lakeland.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Florida?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Allentown or Lakeland?
It depends on your priorities. Allentown has a cost index of 79 with median rent of $1,269/mo, while Lakeland has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,299/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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