Cost of Living: Allentown, PA vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Allentown is 14% cheaper than Rochester.

$1,269/mo ↓ 4%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↑ 4%
$53,403/yr ↓ 39%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 64%
$188,900 ↓ 34%
Home Value
$287,500 ↑ 52%
$1,243/mo ↓ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↑ 7%
125,320
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
9.85%
6.0%
Sales Tax
6.875%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

28.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Allentown, PA and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 79 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $34,364/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Allentown is $188,900 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Allentown vs Rochester — common questions

Is Allentown or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Allentown is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 93 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Allentown and Rochester?
Median rent in Allentown is $1,269/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $47/month.
Which city has higher income, Allentown or Rochester?
Median household income is $53,403 in Allentown and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $34,364/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Minnesota?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Allentown or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Allentown has a cost index of 79 with median rent of $1,269/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 93 with rent of $1,316/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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