Harrisburg, PA vs York, PA

Harrisburg, PA and York, PA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.6% difference in their overall index. Harrisburg scores 74 while York scores 71 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 Harrisburg is $996/month compared to $958/month in York — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: York is more affordable at $103,100 median vs $121,000.

Median household income in Harrisburg is $47,783 compared to $47,115 in York (+1.4%). Harrisburg does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Harrisburg spend roughly 25% of their income on rent, more than the 24.4% in York.