Cost of Living in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Luzerne County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Luzerne County ranks #2,593 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 18%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania
Luzerne rents strain household budgets
Luzerne County renters spend 18.4% of their $62,321 median household income on rent, approaching affordability stress despite earning below the national median of $74,755. This tight ratio reflects a community where housing costs have climbed faster than wage growth.
Above-average burden in Pennsylvania
Luzerne County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of 16.5%, with median rent of $958 nearly matching the state average of $960. The county ranks among the more affordability-challenged areas statewide.
High rents for lower-income county
Luzerne's $958 rent trails Lackawanna's $973 by just $15 but exceeds nearby Juniata ($730) by $228 and Jefferson ($746) by $212, making it one of the region's pricier markets. Median home values of $163,800 underscore the county's modest economic profile relative to housing costs.
Luzerne income stretched thin
On a $62,321 annual income ($5,193 monthly), Luzerne households dedicate $958 to rent and $973 to ownership costs, consuming 37% of gross income combined. This leaves limited flexibility for savings and emergencies in a county where incomes lag state averages.
Luzerne: consider more affordable options
Renters in Luzerne County should explore nearby Juniata or Lawrence County, where $200-230 monthly rent savings could ease financial pressure substantially. Even modest relocations within northeastern Pennsylvania could unlock $2,500+ in annual housing savings while maintaining access to similar job markets and services.
Cost of Living Advisory: Luzerne County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Luzerne County is affordable. The median rent is $958/month against a median household income of $62,321, putting rent at 18.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Luzerne County is $958/month, while owner costs run $973/month. Renting saves approximately $15/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,700/year. With a median household income of $62,321, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Luzerne County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Columbia County where rent averages $904/month, Luzerne County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Luzerne County
Rent Burden
18.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,454
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Luzerne County
Median home value is $163,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,308 vs. your max of $1,454.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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 Luzerne County, Pennsylvania?
What is the median rent in Luzerne County?
Is Luzerne County affordable?
How does Luzerne County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Luzerne County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Luzerne County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.