Bristol, PA vs Williamsport, PA

The cost of living difference between Bristol, PA and Williamsport, PA is dramatic. Williamsport is 35.1% cheaper than Bristol, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Bristol has a cost index of 94 while Williamsport sits at 70, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Bristol is $1,281/month compared to $825/month in Williamsport — a 55% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Williamsport is more affordable at $146,500 median vs $236,400.

Median household income in Bristol is $70,595 compared to $49,363 in Williamsport (+43%). While Bristol is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Bristol spend roughly 21.8% of their income on rent, more than the 20.1% in Williamsport.

Climate-wise, Bristol is notably warmer with an average of 56.4°F compared to 51.3°F in Williamsport. Bristol receives more rainfall at 45" per year compared to 43.5" in Williamsport.