Cost of Living in Somerset County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Somerset County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Somerset County, Pennsylvania
Somerset Achieves Excellent Affordability
Somerset County renters spend just 15.1% of income on housing, matching Pennsylvania's best performers and beating the national standard. Median household income of $59,378 falls below the national median of $74,755, yet residents here maintain superior housing affordability through remarkably low rents.
Top-Tier Pennsylvania Affordability
Somerset County ranks among Pennsylvania's most affordable counties, with a 15.1% rent-to-income ratio tied with Schuylkill County. The county demonstrates that lower incomes don't prevent affordability when housing costs remain reasonable.
Among the Most Affordable Rents
Somerset's $749 median rent is the second-lowest in this survey, trailing only Potter County's $767, while median home values of $130,600 are the lowest here. The county rivals Potter for rural affordability while offering slightly different amenities and regional positioning.
Nearly Identical Renting and Owning
Somerset renters pay $749 monthly (15.1% of income), while homeowners spend nearly identical $751—one of the most balanced markets in the survey. The median home value of $130,600 is the lowest here, providing exceptional homeownership access for middle-income buyers.
Somerset: Rural Affordability, Strong Value
If you're prioritizing affordability and considering rural Pennsylvania, Somerset County delivers among the lowest rents and home values in the state. For families relocating on tight budgets, Somerset's combination of low costs and balanced housing markets offers genuine economic relief.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Somerset County
Rent Burden
15.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,385
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Somerset County
Median home value is $130,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,043 vs. your max of $1,385.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Somerset County, Pennsylvania?
What is the median rent in Somerset County?
Is Somerset County affordable?
How does Somerset County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Somerset County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Somerset County, Pennsylvania? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Somerset 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.