What Is the Average Cost of Living in Pennsylvania?

Understanding the cost of living is fundamental for financial planning, helping individuals budget effectively and assess the affordability of different locations. It encompasses expenses for basic necessities and discretionary spending, influencing decisions about residence and employment.

General Overview of Pennsylvania’s Cost of Living

The cost of living refers to the money needed to sustain a standard of living, covering housing, food, utilities, transportation, and healthcare. Pennsylvania’s overall cost of living generally aligns with the national average. While some data suggests it is 2% higher, other analyses indicate it is less expensive.

These averages are determined through composite indices like the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) Cost of Living Index. The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) Cost of Living Index for 2022 placed Pennsylvania as the 27th most expensive state, near the national middle. Geographic variations within the state can lead to different personal experiences.

Detailed Breakdown of Living Expenses

Housing

Housing represents a significant portion of living expenses, with costs varying across Pennsylvania. As of August 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment statewide is approximately $1,530 per month, while a two-bedroom unit averages around $1,787 monthly. For those considering homeownership, the median home sale price in Pennsylvania ranged from $292,000 in 2024 to $340,200 in May 2025. Property taxes also contribute to housing costs, with Pennsylvania ranking among states with higher effective property tax rates, at approximately 1.49%.

Utilities

Utility costs are another substantial component of the cost of living. The average monthly utility bill in Pennsylvania is around $443, encompassing various services. Specifically, electricity costs average approximately $150.98 per month as of July 2025. Water bills typically range between $30 and $50 monthly, while natural gas can add about $103 to monthly expenses. Essential services like internet average around $30 per month, and phone bills may cost approximately $114 monthly, with streaming services adding another $48.

Food

Food expenses are a consistent part of any budget, and in Pennsylvania, a single person can expect to spend between $250 and $350 on groceries each month. Annual grocery spending for an average household in Pennsylvania is estimated at $7,200, according to a May 2025 study. This translates to roughly $249.09 per week for food prepared at home. Additionally, dining out contributes to food costs, with residents spending an average of $93.01 weekly on meals outside the home.

Transportation

Transportation costs include vehicle-related expenses and public transit. The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Pennsylvania was around $3.23 in July 2025. Car insurance premiums vary widely, with full coverage policies averaging between $1,660 and $1,872 annually in 2025. While specific statewide averages for public transportation passes are not readily available, overall transportation costs for a single adult without children are estimated to be upwards of $4,400 annually, covering fuel, insurance, and maintenance.

Healthcare

Healthcare expenses are a significant consideration for residents. Individual health insurance premiums can range from $400 to $600 per month, with some plans being more affordable. For families, monthly premiums typically fall between $1,200 and $1,700. A routine doctor’s visit typically costs between $96 and $147, though an emergency room visit can average around $1,800. Hospital stays can also be substantial, with daily rates ranging from $1,459 to $2,886 depending on the facility type.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous expenses cover a broad array of personal spending not categorized above. These include costs for personal care products, clothing, and entertainment. While specific statewide averages for these individual categories are not consistently tracked, they represent a variable portion of an individual’s budget. These discretionary costs fluctuate considerably based on personal lifestyle choices and consumption habits.

Geographic Differences in Pennsylvania

The cost of living within Pennsylvania exhibits notable geographic differences, with expenses varying significantly between urban, suburban, and rural areas. Major metropolitan centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh typically present higher overall living costs compared to smaller cities and rural communities. This disparity is particularly pronounced in housing, which is often the largest expense category.

For instance, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Philadelphia can be around $1,753 per month, while Pittsburgh averages about $1,630 for a one-bedroom. In contrast, smaller cities such as Erie offer more affordable housing, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,110 monthly. The median home prices also reflect this trend; Philadelphia’s median home price was $265,000 in November 2024, compared to Erie’s median of $134,000.

Transportation costs also show regional variation, influenced by the availability of public transit and commuting distances. Residents in densely populated urban areas might rely more on public transportation, potentially reducing individual vehicle expenses. In contrast, those in suburban and rural settings often face higher transportation costs due to greater reliance on personal vehicles and longer commutes. Utility expenses can also differ regionally, with specific energy providers and local regulations influencing rates.