Luzerne, PA vs New Salem, PA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Luzerne is 18.2% cheaper than New Salem. With a cost index of 65 vs 79, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Luzerne to New Salem should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Luzerne is $758/month compared to $850/month in New Salem — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Luzerne is more affordable at $113,700 median vs $239,900.

Median household income in Luzerne is $39,257 compared to $103,750 in New Salem (-62.2%). While New Salem is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Luzerne spend roughly 23.2% of their income on rent, more than the 9.8% in New Salem.