The Most Affordable Cities in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania experiences all four seasons and those who choose to live here have a treasure chest of history to explore; since it was one of the original 13 colonies of the United States, it is saturated with stories of yesteryear. You will also find natural beauty throughout its forests, farmlands, and waterways, giving you some of the best places to live in Pennsylvania.

NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the top 10 most affordable cities in Pennsylvania to help you find a new home at a great price.

1. Pottsville

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.7%

Average Property Tax: $1,171

Median Household Income: $42,083

The most affordable city is Pottsville, which is in the eastern region of the state. If you are in a New York City state of mind, you can drive there in less than three hours. Pottsville is surrounded by green space and offers abundant opportunities for outdoor relaxation. In addition, there is also a happening downtown that has many museums, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

2. Reading

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.27%

Average Property Tax: $1,530

Median Household Income: $32,176

Reading is in South-Eastern Pennsylvania and is the fifth-largest city in the state. The Reading Pagoda is one of its most famous attractions, offering one of the best panoramic views of the entire city. In Nolde Forest, there are many hiking trails where you can make a great escape from city life. Additionally, Reading Railroad Heritage Museum is the perfect place to dive into the city’s history. 

3. Johnstown

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.55%

Average Property Tax: $564

Median Household Income: $24,561

Johnstown is a quaint town packed with unique attractions. Johnstown Flood Museum, Stackhouse Park, Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, and Peoples Natural Gas Park are a few favorite spots amongst locals and tourists. In addition to all the fascinating attractions, you can sample some delicious cuisine with family and friends at restaurants like The Boulevard Grill and Warehouse and Clark’s Corner Store and Catering.

4. Sharon

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.01%

Average Property Tax: $903

Median Household Income: $32,470

Sharon radiates with small-town charm. The city is best known for being home to the World’s Largest Shoe Store and the World’s Largest Candy Store. Folks who enjoy shopping will love its unique boutiques. In addition, there are many local restaurants and art galleries.

5. McKeesport

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.65%

Average Property Tax: $965

Median Household Income: $29,094

McKeesport, a suburb of Pittsburgh, has a diverse mix of races and nationalities. Every year, McKeesport hosts an annual ethnic food festival that offers cuisines from over 10 countries. This is an event the locals anticipate year after year. If you are feeling outdoorsy, you can explore the Great Allegheny Passage Trail, Steel Valley Trail, and Youghiogheny River Trail.

6. Erie

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.35%

Average Property Tax: $1,702

Median Household Income: $37,894

Erie is the fourth largest city in Pennsylvania and is packed with an assortment of indoor and outdoor activities. If you are in the mood to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, walk, swim, or fish you will find it all at Presque Isle State Park. In the winter, you can trade land for ice at the park, as it offers ice fishing, ice skating, and even iceboating. If the indoors are more your style, you can check out Erie’s museums, lighthouse, shopping malls, and more.

7. New Castle

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.81%

Average Property Tax: $972

Median Household Income: $34,133

New Castle is a charming city that is located about an hour Northwest of Pittsburgh. Its downtown is lined with picturesque historic buildings as well as the illustrious Scottish Rite Cathedral. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Bear Run Campground, McConnells Mill State Park, and Cascade Park.

8. Lancaster

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.52%

Average Property Tax: $1,937

Median Household Income: $45,514

Lancaster has a country charm that is rich in the Amish and Mennonite communities. It is surrounded by rolling farmlands and old-fashioned villages which offer locals an abundance of history, art, shopping, and outdoor recreational activities. Folks living in Lancaster can spend their days touring the Amish Farm and House, exploring the Phillips Museum of Art, attending a music festival at Long’s Park, or hiking at Conestoga Trail.

9. York

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.24%

Average Property Tax: $1,457

Median Household Income: $33,906

York is a southern Pennsylvania city that has a vibrant history. Folks can discover its rich heritage at the York County History Center and the Agricultural and Industrial Museum. Additionally, there are theaters, museums, parks, and places where you can connect with nature. York truly has something for everyone to enjoy. 

10. Altoona

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.14%

Average Property Tax: $1,044

Median Household Income: $41,403

Nature lovers will find Altoona to be a beautiful city that is surrounded by lush green mountains. The Horseshoe Curve, Chimney Rocks Park, and Canoe Creek State Park are three of the most popular outdoor spots in Altoona. Downtown Altoona has a variety of restaurants, shops, and award-winning museums.

Cities with the Best Home Price to Income Ratio

While the list above is sorted by the lowest overall cost of living index, the following cities have the lowest home price to income ratio, meaning you can get more home for your money.

1. Johnstown
2. McKeesport
3. Pottsville