Cost of Living in Blair County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Blair County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Blair County ranks #1,392 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 44%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Blair County, Pennsylvania
Blair slightly above national benchmark
Blair County renters spend 16.9% of income on housing, above the national average but in line with Pennsylvania's state average of 16.5%. The median household income of $60,594 trails national levels, meaning the housing cost burden feels proportionally heavier.
Blair near state affordability average
Blair County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.9% sits just above Pennsylvania's state average of 16.5%, placing it squarely in the middle tier. Monthly rent of $854 runs $106 below the state average of $960, offering some offset to the higher ratio.
Blair bridges rural and suburban costs
Blair's $854 rent falls between affordable rural counties (Armstrong at $802, Bedford at $771) and pricier suburbs (Berks at $1,143). Home values near $156,700 similarly position Blair as a middle-ground market for the region.
Blair's moderate housing burden
Renters spend $854 monthly (16.9% of income), while homeowners pay $851 (17.1%)—notably balanced between rental and ownership. The county's modest incomes mean these percentages reflect a tighter squeeze than higher-income areas.
Blair for modest-income living
Blair County offers reasonable housing costs for those with lower to moderate incomes, though job opportunities may be more limited than larger metros. Compare to nearby Armstrong and Bedford for even greater savings, or Berks for more employment options.
Cost of Living Advisory: Blair County
Affordability Verdict
Blair County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $854/month representing approximately 16.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Blair County is $854/month, while owner costs run $851/month. Owning saves approximately $3/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,471/year. With a median household income of $60,594, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Blair County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Blair County sits 6% more expensive than Armstrong County ($802/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Blair County
Rent Burden
16.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,414
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Blair County
Median home value is $156,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,251 vs. your max of $1,414.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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