Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Pennsylvania
Jefferson rents eat 15.7% of income
Jefferson County renters spend 15.7% of their median household income on rent—better than the national benchmark where most affordability experts flag 30% as the danger zone. Compared to the national median household income of $74,755, Jefferson residents earn $56,898, making housing costs proportionally manageable relative to local wages.
Among Pennsylvania's most affordable
Jefferson County's 15.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks well below Pennsylvania's state average of 16.5%, putting it in the more affordable tier across the state. The county's median rent of $746 significantly undercuts the state average of $960, offering genuine relief for renters.
Cheaper than Lackawanna and Luzerne
Jefferson County rents at $746 monthly underscore its competitive edge—Lackawanna County residents pay $973 and Luzerne County tenants pay $958 for the same housing stock. Even homeowners benefit: Jefferson's median monthly ownership cost of $673 trails both neighboring counties' averages, making it a bargain in the region.
Where Jefferson incomes go
On a $56,898 annual income, the typical Jefferson household allocates $746 monthly to rent (15.7%) and $673 to ownership costs, leaving substantial room in the budget. This breaks down to roughly $4,741 monthly gross income, with housing consuming less than one-third—well within healthy financial guidelines.
Consider Jefferson for affordability
If housing costs are your concern, Jefferson County delivers: rents run $214 cheaper monthly than the state average, and home values average $126,700. Relocating here could free up $2,500+ annually in rent savings compared to pricier Pennsylvania counties while maintaining reasonable homeownership costs.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
15.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,328
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $126,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,011 vs. your max of $1,328.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.