Cost of Living in Bradford County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bradford County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bradford County ranks #1,214 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bradford County, Pennsylvania
Bradford slightly above national average
Bradford County renters spend 16.7% of income on housing, slightly above the national average and above Pennsylvania's state average of 16.5%. The median household income of $62,482 trails national levels, making the housing cost burden feel relatively heavier.
Bradford near Pennsylvania's median
Bradford's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% sits just above the state average of 16.5%, placing it in Pennsylvania's middle tier for affordability. Monthly rent of $868 runs $92 below the state average of $960, providing modest savings.
Bradford in the affordable middle
Bradford's $868 rent positions it between affordable rural counties (Armstrong at $802, Bedford at $771) and costlier suburbs (Berks at $1,143). Home values near $182,300 similarly place Bradford as a middle-market option for the region.
Bradford's balanced ownership costs
Renters spend $868 monthly (16.7% of income), while homeowners pay $829 (15.3%)—one of the few counties where ownership costs less than rent. This makes Bradford attractive for buyers able to secure mortgages on modest incomes.
Bradford for first-time homebuyers
Bradford County offers relatively affordable homeownership with ownership costs lower than rents—ideal for first-time buyers on moderate incomes. Compare to nearby Armstrong and Beaver to find Pennsylvania's best fit for your housing needs and budget.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bradford County
Affordability Verdict
Bradford County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $868/month representing approximately 16.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $868/month rent versus $829/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $39/month cheaper — a 4% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,529/year. With a median household income of $62,482, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Bradford County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Pennsylvania, Bradford County is more affordable than Clinton County by roughly 7% ($868/mo vs $815/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bradford County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,458
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Bradford County
Median home value is $182,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,455 vs. your max of $1,458.
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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