Clarks Summit, PA vs Ephrata, PA

Clarks Summit, PA and Ephrata, PA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.5% difference in their overall index. Clarks Summit scores 87 while Ephrata scores 84 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Clarks Summit is $1,147/month compared to $1,070/month in Ephrata — a 7% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ephrata is more affordable at $215,100 median vs $236,900.

Median household income in Clarks Summit is $91,442 compared to $68,117 in Ephrata (+34.2%). While Clarks Summit is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Clarks Summit spend roughly 15.1% of their income on rent, less than the 18.8% in Ephrata.