Plum, PA vs State College, PA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Plum is 17.2% cheaper than State College. With a cost index of 86 vs 104, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Plum to State College should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Plum is $1,156/month compared to $1,229/month in State College — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Plum is more affordable at $218,600 median vs $414,400.

Median household income in Plum is $98,475 compared to $47,132 in State College (+108.9%). Plum offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Plum spend roughly 14.1% of their income on rent, less than the 31.3% in State College. The Plum ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.