Cost of Living: Richmond, VA vs Allentown, PA (2026)

Richmond

Virginia
98
VS

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79

Richmond is 24% more expensive than Allentown.

$1,314/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,269/mo ↓ 3%
$62,671/yr ↑ 17%
Median Income
$53,403/yr ↓ 15%
$328,100 ↑ 74%
Home Value
$188,900 ↓ 42%
$1,374/mo ↑ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,243/mo ↓ 10%
227,595
Population
125,320

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
3.07%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.49%

Affordability

25.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Richmond, VA and Allentown, PA, the overall cost of living indices are 98 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $9,268/year higher in Richmond. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Richmond is $328,100 compared to $188,900 in Allentown.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Richmond vs Allentown — common questions

Is Richmond or Allentown cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Allentown is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 98 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Richmond and Allentown?
Median rent in Richmond is $1,314/month and in Allentown it's $1,269/month — a difference of $45/month.
Which city has higher income, Richmond or Allentown?
Median household income is $62,671 in Richmond and $53,403 in Allentown. Median household income is $9,268/year higher in Richmond.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Pennsylvania?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax.
Should I move to Richmond or Allentown?
It depends on your priorities. Richmond has a cost index of 98 with median rent of $1,314/mo, while Allentown has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,269/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Richmond details → View Allentown details →

More Comparisons

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