Cost of Living in Indiana County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Indiana County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Indiana County ranks #1,292 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 41%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Indiana County, Pennsylvania
Indiana County Meets National Affordability Standards
Indiana County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.1% sits just below the national average of 15.8% and below Pennsylvania's state average of 16.5%, indicating solid overall affordability. With a median household income of $58,739 and monthly rent of $786, Indiana offers reasonable housing access for middle-income households.
Indiana Hovers at PA's State Average Affordability
At 16.1%, Indiana County's rent-to-income ratio sits just below Pennsylvania's state average of 16.5%, placing it among the state's moderately affordable counties. Monthly rent of $786 runs 18% below the state median of $960, offering meaningful rental savings.
Indiana Sits Comfortably in Regional Range
Indiana's $786 monthly rent falls near the middle of this region's spectrum, while its 16.1% ratio ranks better than Fayette (16.5%), Erie (17.1%), and Forest (19.4%), though it trails the most affordable counties. The median home value of $145,400 aligns closely with Fayette's $126,900 and Greene's $146,200, reflecting a blue-collar housing market.
Renters Spend 16.1% on Housing Costs
Indiana County households earning $58,739 pay $786 for rent or $760 for mortgage, consuming just 16.1% of gross income—right at the state average. This affordability structure leaves adequate income for other expenses while maintaining financial stability.
Indiana County: Solid Affordability Option
If considering western Pennsylvania relocation, Indiana County offers solid affordability at 16.1% of income with rental and ownership costs that remain well-aligned with state averages. Compare Indiana's steady middle-ground approach against Greene's exceptional affordability (13.5%) or Franklin's premium market ($1,071 rent) to find your best value.
Cost of Living Advisory: Indiana County
Affordability Verdict
Indiana County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $786/month — about 16.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Indiana County is $786/month, while owner costs run $760/month. Owning saves approximately $26/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,571/year. With a median household income of $58,739, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Indiana County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Perry County where rent averages $838/month, Indiana County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Indiana County
Rent Burden
16.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,371
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Indiana County
Median home value is $145,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,161 vs. your max of $1,371.
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
What is the cost of living in Indiana County, Pennsylvania?
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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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