Ephrata, PA vs Plum, PA

Ephrata, PA and Plum, PA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.5% difference in their overall index. Ephrata scores 84 while Plum scores 86 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 Ephrata is $1,070/month compared to $1,156/month in Plum — a 7% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ephrata is more affordable at $215,100 median vs $218,600.

Median household income in Ephrata is $68,117 compared to $98,475 in Plum (-30.8%). While Plum is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Ephrata spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, more than the 14.1% in Plum.