Finding an affordable place to live in Pennsylvania is possible, with plenty of cities offering budget-friendly rentals. From fast-growing cities to charming small towns, Pennsylvania has a range of spots where you can enjoy a high quality of life without a hefty price tag.
Today, we’re taking a closer look at six of the cheapest places to live in Pennsylvania, alongside some insights into the largest employers and most affordable attractions that make each city budget-friendly places for renters to call home.
1. Erie
Average rent: $1,064
Erie stands out as the most affordable city on our list, with an average rent of just $1,064. Studio apartments in Erie are particularly budget-friendly at $945, while one-bedroom units average out at $770 and two-bedroom apartments come in at $1,478. Erie’s overall low cost of living makes it an excellent choice for those looking to save money.
Major employers in Erie include Erie Insurance and UPMC Hamot. For entertainment, visit Presque Isle State Park for a scenic outdoor experience or explore the Erie Maritime Museum. The city also sponsors community events throughout the year, including summer concerts and festivals at Perry Square.
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2. Upper Darby
Average rent: $1,105
Upper Darby has an average rent of $1,105, making it another highly affordable option for renters in Pennsylvania. One-bedroom units are about $960, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,250.
A couple of the larger employers in Upper Darby include Delaware County Memorial Hospital and the Upper Darby School District. For a free day out on the town, we recommend popping around the many parks that pepper Upper Darby, including the ever-popular Naylors Run Park.
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3. Bristol
Average rent: $1,156
Bristol’s average rent sits at $1,156. Studio apartments average $1,400, one-bedroom units are about $859, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,209.
Key employers in Bristol include Dow Chemical Company and Lower Bucks Hospital. For a night of affordable culture, visit the Bristol Riverside Theatre or enjoy the scenic views at Silver Lake Nature Center.
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4. Harrisburg
Average rent: $1,226
Harrisburg’s average rent is $1,266. Studio apartments in Harrisburg average $1,110, one-bedroom units are around $1,242, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,446.
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and UPMC Pinnacle are two of the more significant employers in Harrisburg. To get the authentic Harrisburg experience, check out the Pennsylvania State Capitol or take part in events at the City Island Complex.
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5. Pittsburgh
Average rent: $1,401
Pittsburgh’s average rent is $1,401. Studio apartments average $1,097, one-bedroom units are around $1,425, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,680. With affordable transportation and utility costs, living in Pittsburgh is financially sensible.
The University of Pittsburgh is one of the larger employers in the city, solidifying Pittsburgh’s status as a top-tier Pennsylvania college town. The Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh are world-class and affordable. If you’re lucky enough to be in town for it, you can’t miss the Three Rivers Arts Festival.
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6. Scranton
Average rent: $1,491
Scranton’s average rent is $1,491. Studio apartments average $1,250, one-bedroom units are about $1,507, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,715.
One of the larger employers in Scranton is the University of Scranton, giving the city a great college town vibe. In terms of free attractions, we recommend visiting the Steamtown National Historic Site or taking a stroll through Nay Aug Park.
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Methodology
All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have an average rent price under the median rent price for the state – which is $1,492 per month according to Redfin data. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2024.
