Cost of Living in Clarion County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clarion County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clarion County ranks #742 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clarion County, Pennsylvania
Clarion offers solid rental affordability
Clarion County renters spend just 15.5% of income on housing—better than the 16.5% national average—despite a median income of $60,668 that trails the national figure by 19%. The $785 median rent reflects rural Pennsylvania's genuine cost advantage for budget-conscious residents.
Above-average affordability in Pennsylvania
Clarion's 15.5% rent-to-income ratio outperforms Pennsylvania's 16.5% state average, though the county's $785 median rent runs 18% below the state mean of $960. Clarion ranks among Pennsylvania's most affordable counties for renters despite below-average wages.
Cheaper than most, but limited options
Clarion's $785 rent rivals Cambria ($733) and beats Cameron ($699) narrowly—all three represent Pennsylvania's most affordable rental markets. However, Clarion's job market remains limited compared to larger counties, making affordability less valuable without reliable income.
Clarion's efficient housing ratio
Renters spend $785 monthly (15.5%) and homeowners $737 (14.6%) against the $60,668 median household income, both well below stress thresholds. This leaves Clarion households with reasonable discretionary income despite limited absolute earnings.
Clarion fits self-sufficient relocators
Choose Clarion if you can secure employment outside the local market or bring pension/retirement income—the $785 rent and $152,100 median home price become exceptional values. Local job seekers should research opportunities carefully; the rural economy offers limited positions despite affordable living costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clarion County
Affordability Verdict
Clarion County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $785/month — about 15.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Clarion County pay $785/month on average, compared to $737/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 6%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,586/year. With a median household income of $60,668, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Clarion County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Pennsylvania, Clarion County is more affordable than Cambria County by roughly 7% ($785/mo vs $733/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clarion County
Rent Burden
15.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,416
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clarion County
Median home value is $152,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,214 vs. your max of $1,416.
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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