Cost of Living in York County, Pennsylvania
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How York County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
York County ranks #2,125 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 32%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in York County, Pennsylvania
York rents exceed national affordability thresholds
York County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% surpasses the national comfort zone, meaning renters here dedicate a larger share of income to housing than typical Americans. With a median rent of $1,150 monthly against a $82,238 median household income, York represents a higher-cost county both regionally and nationally.
York slightly outpaces state average housing costs
At 16.8%, York's rent-to-income ratio marginally exceeds Pennsylvania's 16.5% state average, placing it among the state's pricier counties. The median rent of $1,150 significantly surpasses the state average of $960, reflecting York's stronger economy and desirability.
York commands the region's highest rents
York's median rent of $1,150 far exceeds Westmoreland ($843) and Wyoming ($897), with median home values of $235,000 also topping both neighbors. This premium reflects York's economic strength and proximity to Baltimore-Washington markets, making it the priciest option among the three counties.
York housing takes nearly 17% of income
Renters commit approximately $1,150 monthly against an $82,238 median household income, consuming 16.8% of earnings, while homeowners allocate $1,337 to mortgage costs. Despite York's higher incomes than neighboring counties, housing remains the largest household expense, leaving families with less discretionary spending than lower-cost alternatives.
York suits those prioritizing economic opportunity
Choose York County if higher incomes and urban-adjacent amenities outweigh premium housing costs—median incomes here exceed Westmoreland by nearly $10,000. With strong job markets and proximity to major metros, York justifies its price premium for career-focused households willing to allocate more income toward housing.
Cost of Living Advisory: York County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in York County is affordable. The median rent is $1,150/month against a median household income of $82,238, putting rent at 16.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in York County is $1,150/month, while owner costs run $1,337/month. Renting saves approximately $187/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $57,300/year. With a median household income of $82,238, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in York County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
York County sits 6% more expensive than Lebanon County ($1,087/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in York County
Rent Burden
16.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,919
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in York County
Median home value is $235,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,876 vs. your max of $1,919.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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