Cost of Living in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clearfield County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clearfield County ranks #783 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 25%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania
Clearfield's rent stays below national strain
At 15.7%, Clearfield County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national norm, meaning renters here spend less of their paycheck on housing than typical Americans. The county's median rent of $788 per month is significantly cheaper than the state average of $960, giving renters breathing room despite median household income running about $14,500 below the national figure of $74,755.
Among Pennsylvania's most affordable rentals
Clearfield ranks well within Pennsylvania's affordability spectrum, with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% compared to the state average of 16.5%. This modest advantage reflects both lower rents and steady local incomes, positioning the county as a relatively accessible place to rent statewide.
Clearer skies than surrounding rural counties
Clearfield's $788 monthly rent undercuts Clinton County ($815) and Crawford County ($800) by a small margin, and significantly beats Columbia County at $904. The county's rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% trails only Elk County (13.5%) among its regional peers, making it one of the more affordable options in north-central Pennsylvania.
Housing eats modest slice of income
Renters in Clearfield spend roughly 16% of their $60,181 median household income on rent, while homeowners dedicate about 15% to mortgage payments averaging $748 monthly on homes valued at $125,000. Together, these figures show housing remains manageable for both renters and owners in this county.
Consider Clearfield for rural affordability
If you're seeking small-town living with lower housing costs, Clearfield delivers: rents below state average and homes under $130,000. Compare this advantage to nearby Elk County (even cheaper rent) or Crawford County (similar pricing) to find your best fit in Pennsylvania's north-central region.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clearfield County
Affordability Verdict
Clearfield County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $788/month — about 15.7% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Clearfield County pay $788/month on average, compared to $748/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 5%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,057/year. With a median household income of $60,181, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Clearfield County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Clearfield County sits 6% less expensive than Schuylkill County ($842/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clearfield County
Rent Burden
15.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,404
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clearfield County
Median home value is $125,000. Estimated monthly cost: $998 vs. your max of $1,404.
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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