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Fullerton, PA vs State College, PA

95
Fullerton
Pennsylvania
VS
-8.4%
104
State College
Pennsylvania

Fullerton is moderately more affordable than State College, with a 8.4% lower cost of living index. Fullerton scores 95 compared to 104 for State College, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of State College can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Fullerton is $1,381/month compared to $1,229/month in State College — a 12% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while State College has cheaper rent, Fullerton actually has lower median home values ($229,900 vs $414,400).

Median household income in Fullerton is $63,357 compared to $47,132 in State College (+34.4%). Fullerton offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Fullerton spend roughly 26.2% of their income on rent, less than the 31.3% in State College. The Fullerton ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Income & Cost

Cost of Living Index
Fullerton
95
8% cheaper
State College
104
Median Household Income
Fullerton
$63,357
26% higher
State College
$47,132

Housing

Median Rent
Fullerton
$1,381
State College
$1,229
11% cheaper
Median Home Value
Fullerton
$229,900
45% cheaper
State College
$414,400
Population
Fullerton
16,729
State College
40,669

Salary Equivalency Calculator

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Everyday Prices

BLS Average Prices by metro area

Gasoline (regular)
Fullerton $3.01
State College $3.01
US $3.07
🥚
Eggs (grade A, large)
Fullerton $2.46
State College $2.46
US $2.50
🥛
Milk (whole)
Fullerton $3.96
State College $3.96
US $4.03
🍞
Bread (white)
Fullerton $1.82
State College $1.82
US $1.85
🍗
Chicken breast
Fullerton $4.07
State College $4.07
US $4.14
Electricity
Fullerton $0.22
State College $0.22
US $0.19