Cost of Living in Perry County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Perry County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Perry County ranks #1,273 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 40%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Perry County, Pennsylvania
Perry County Outpaces National Affordability
Perry County residents enjoy a 12.8% rent-to-income ratio—well below the national benchmark and significantly better than Pennsylvania's 16.5% average. With a median household income of $78,824, Perry residents earn above the national median of $74,755 while keeping housing costs lean.
One of Pennsylvania's Most Affordable
Perry County ranks among the top performers statewide for housing affordability, combining higher incomes with moderate rents. The county's 12.8% rent-to-income ratio places it well ahead of most Pennsylvania counties, reflecting strong economic health.
Better Incomes, Similar Rents
Perry County's $838 rent is slightly below Snyder County ($890) and near Northumberland County ($777), but Perry residents earn significantly more—$78,824 versus $68,435 in Snyder. This income advantage is the key driver of Perry's superior affordability ranking.
Balanced Housing and Homeownership
Perry County shows a split: renters pay $838 monthly (12.8% of income), while homeowners shoulder $1,181 in costs, reflecting higher median home values of $222,800. The gap suggests many Perry residents have moved into ownership, taking on larger mortgages while earning solid incomes.
Perry Offers Strong Economic Fundamentals
If you're seeking a county with rising incomes and manageable housing costs, Perry County stands out as a balanced choice within Pennsylvania. The combination of above-average earnings and below-average rent burden makes it attractive for families considering relocation.
Cost of Living Advisory: Perry County
Affordability Verdict
Perry County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $838/month representing approximately 12.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Perry County pay $838/month on average, compared to $1,181/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 29%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $50,614/year. With a median household income of $78,824, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Perry County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Pennsylvania, Perry County is more affordable than Indiana County by roughly 7% ($838/mo vs $786/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Perry County
Rent Burden
12.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,839
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Perry County
Median home value is $222,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,779 vs. your max of $1,839.
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 Perry County, Pennsylvania?
What is the median rent in Perry County?
Is Perry County affordable?
How does Perry County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Perry County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Perry County, Pennsylvania? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Perry 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.