Allentown, PA vs Bethlehem, PA

Allentown is moderately more affordable than Bethlehem, with a 5.5% lower cost of living index. Allentown scores 89 compared to 94 for Bethlehem, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Bethlehem can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Allentown is $1,269/month compared to $1,311/month in Bethlehem — a 3% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Allentown is more affordable at $188,900 median vs $236,500.

Median household income in Allentown is $53,403 compared to $66,443 in Bethlehem (-19.6%). While Bethlehem is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Allentown spend roughly 28.5% of their income on rent, more than the 23.7% in Bethlehem.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (53.1°F vs 53.1°F). Bethlehem receives more rainfall at 47.4" per year compared to 47.4" in Allentown.