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
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.
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
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.