Average Rent in Pennsylvania: $1,555/mo (2026)
Pennsylvania offers exceptional rental value with two major metros and numerous smaller cities. Philadelphia provides East Coast urban living at a fraction of New York prices, while Pittsburgh has reinvented itself as a tech and healthcare hub.
Major Cities in Pennsylvania
Sorted by 2-bedroom rent price (highest to lowest)
Other Cities in Pennsylvania
Estimated average 2-bedroom rent prices for additional Pennsylvania cities:
Explore Pennsylvania Rent Data
Browse detailed rent prices for cities across Pennsylvania. Each city page includes neighborhood breakdowns, rent trends, and local market insights.
Pennsylvania Rental Market Overview
Pennsylvania offers exceptional rental value with two major metros and numerous smaller cities. Philadelphia provides East Coast urban living at a fraction of New York prices, while Pittsburgh has reinvented itself as a tech and healthcare hub.
Rental Market Trends in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's rental markets have shown steady, sustainable growth. Philadelphia neighborhoods vary dramatically in price and character. Pittsburgh's tech transformation has increased demand in certain neighborhoods while maintaining overall affordability.
Major Cities for Renters in Pennsylvania
Philadelphia offers diverse neighborhoods from historic Center City to emerging areas like Fishtown. Pittsburgh provides affordable urban living with growing job opportunities in tech and healthcare. State College, Harrisburg, and Allentown serve regional needs.
Pennsylvania Rental Affordability
Pennsylvania is one of the most affordable states for East Coast living. Both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh offer excellent value compared to New York, Boston, or Washington DC, making them attractive for those seeking urban amenities on a budget.
What Affects Rent Prices in Pennsylvania?
- Location: Proximity to employment centers and urban amenities significantly impacts rent prices across Pennsylvania metros.
- Local Economy: Job growth and industry presence drive rental demand. Strong employment markets typically have higher rents.
- Housing Supply: Areas with new construction tend to have more rental options and potentially competitive pricing.
- Schools: Quality school districts command premium rents, especially for family-sized apartments.
- Transportation: Access to highways and public transit affects neighborhood desirability and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Rent
What is the average rent in Pennsylvania?
The average rent in Pennsylvania is $1,555 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment based on 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent data. Prices range from $1,299 in Pittsburgh to $1,810 in Philadelphia.
What is the cheapest city to rent in Pennsylvania?
Pittsburgh, PA offers the most affordable rent among major Pennsylvania metros at $1,299/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Studios in Pittsburgh average $1,001/month.
What is the most expensive city to rent in Pennsylvania?
Philadelphia, PA has the highest rents in Pennsylvania at $1,810/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. This is $255 above the state average.
How much do I need to earn to rent in Pennsylvania?
To comfortably afford the average Pennsylvania 2-bedroom at $1,555/month, you would need an annual income of approximately $62,200 (based on the 30% of income guideline). For the most affordable areas, you would need about $51,960/year.
Is Pennsylvania affordable for renters?
Pennsylvania offers moderate rental costs, with average 2-bedroom rents at $1,555/month. Some cities offer excellent value while others command premium prices.