Lancaster, PA vs Monroeville, PA

Lancaster, PA and Monroeville, PA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2% difference in their overall index. Lancaster scores 86 while Monroeville scores 85 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 Lancaster is $1,177/month compared to $1,162/month in Monroeville — a 1% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Monroeville is more affordable at $197,400 median vs $203,700.

Median household income in Lancaster is $63,421 compared to $78,191 in Monroeville (-18.9%). Monroeville offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Lancaster spend roughly 22.3% of their income on rent, more than the 17.8% in Monroeville.