What is the Average Cost of Living in Pennsylvania in 2025?

Are you thinking about moving to Pennsylvania? The state offers a mix of vibrant cities and quiet towns. Its diverse economy supports many jobs, especially in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. In 2025, the average cost of living in Pennsylvania is shown by an index of 95.1, about 2% above the national average.

However, living costs remain affordable compared to many nearby states. Here’s what you can expect to pay for housing, utilities, and more, so you can plan your budget effectively.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Average Cost of Living in 2025

To maintain a comfortable middle-class lifestyle, Pennsylvanians need to earn approximately $51,528 annually. This reflects local living expenses. However, costs are notably lower than in nearby New York or New Jersey. On the other hand, they are higher than in Ohio or Delaware.

Key monthly costs include:

• Housing/rent: $1,555 on average. This is competitive with nearby states. Furthermore, it’s considerably cheaper than New York City and northern New Jersey.
• Utilities: Around $149 per month, with electricity being the largest component.
• Groceries: Approximately $337 per person. This is slightly below the national average. Nevertheless, it’s higher than Ohio.
• Transportation: Gas prices average $3.29/gallon. This is slightly above the national rate.
• Healthcare: Individual premiums range from $400 to $600 monthly. This aligns with regional norms. However, it’s less than New Jersey and New York.

Housing and Rental Market in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s housing market remains one of the state’s strongest appeals. With a median home price of $283,000, it offers much more accessible home ownership. In comparison, its northeastern neighbors are significantly more expensive.

Comparative Housing Pricing vs. Peer States

• New York median home price: $796,000 (182% higher)
• New Jersey median: ~$565,000 (100% higher)
• Delaware median: ~$352,000 (24% higher)
• Ohio median: ~$241,000 (15% lower)
• Maryland median: ~$415,000 (47% higher)
• Illinois median: ~$286,000 (comparable)
• Minnesota median: ~$354,000 (25% higher)

Average rent aligns with this trend. It sits at $1,555/month statewide. This is affordable against New York’s $4,046/month and New Jersey’s $2,500/month. Nevertheless, it is higher than Ohio’s $1,000/month rent average.

Metro-Area Differences

Philadelphia and Pittsburgh present diverse rental markets. They offer relatively affordable options in neighborhoods outside the urban core.

Meanwhile, suburban hubs like Allentown and Harrisburg offer lower-cost housing. As a result, they’re ideal for families and commuters.

Eastern Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia, trends slightly higher on home prices and rent. In contrast, central and western areas are more affordable.

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Utilities and Other Living Expenses in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s utility costs are moderate. Electricity averages about $148.89 per month, which is a significant factor in the average cost of living in Pennsylvania.

Utilities Comparison with Peer States

• New York: $200+ per month (higher)
• New Jersey: $160-$190 per month (higher)
• Delaware: $140-$150 per month (slightly lower)
• Ohio: $120-$140 per month (lower)
• Maryland: $150-$170 per month (slightly higher)
• Illinois: $135-$150 per month (lower)
• Minnesota: $130-$140 per month (lower)

Groceries run just below the national average at $337/month. However, they’re above Ohio’s lower-cost produce. Surprisingly, they’re also above New Jersey’s notably lower grocery costs of $183/month.

Transportation costs are driven by an average gas price of $3.29/gallon. This is comparable to New York. Nevertheless, it’s higher than Ohio’s $3.00/gallon. Additionally, public transportation costs are generally moderate. This is unlike the high fares seen in New York City or northern New Jersey.

Healthcare premiums average $400-$600 monthly. Therefore, Pennsylvania is competitive regionally. Furthermore, it’s less costly than New Jersey or New York’s rising healthcare expenses.

Income and Job Market Overview in Pennsylvania

The average salary in Pennsylvania is approximately $51,528 annually. This supports a moderate cost of living. However, this salary sits well below New York City’s $154,317 and New Jersey’s $143,202 averages. On the other hand, it fares better than Ohio’s $47,000.

Pennsylvania’s middle-class wage matches housing and living expenses better than high-cost states.

Additionally, salaries vary within the state. Urban centers like Philadelphia offer higher wages than rural areas.

As a result, the balance of income and expenses makes Pennsylvania attractive. This is especially true for professionals and families focused on stability.

Is Pennsylvania’s Cost of Living Worth It?

Pennsylvania hits a sweet spot for residents seeking a balance between cost and quality of life. The state offers:

• Affordable housing options far below costly northeastern neighbors
• Moderate utilities and grocery expenses
• Manageable transportation and healthcare costs
• Broad access to urban amenities, historical sites, and diverse cultural hubs
• Competitive salaries relative to living costs

Families especially find Pennsylvania appealing. This is due to childcare costs that are reasonable compared to New York and New Jersey. Therefore, it provides a solid environment for raising children without excessive financial strain.

Regional Insights and Relocation Tips

Newcomers should consider these Pennsylvania economic hubs:

• Philadelphia metro: Vibrant urban economy with diverse job sectors. Additionally, it offers moderate housing costs compared to NYC.
• Pittsburgh area: Growing tech and healthcare sectors with affordable living.
• Central PA (Harrisburg, Lancaster): Affordable housing, lower rents, and quieter communities.
• Lehigh Valley (Allentown, Bethlehem): Rapid growth with a good balance of jobs and cost.

Furthermore, explore local real estate markets carefully. Focus on suburban areas for value and quality schools. Also, utilities and transportation infrastructure vary by region.

Final Thought on Pennsylvania’s Cost of Living

Pennsylvania ranks as a moderately affordable state in 2025. It offers significant advantages in housing affordability versus northeastern neighbors. Additionally, utilities, groceries, and healthcare expenses position the state in a comfortable middle ground. This is especially true for middle-class households.

Moreover, with salaries keeping pace reasonably, Pennsylvania remains an attractive option. This is particularly true for residents seeking a balanced and livable environment. Therefore, the average cost of living in Pennsylvania makes it an appealing choice for many families and professionals.

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