Reading, PA vs York, PA

Reading, PA and York, PA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3% difference in their overall index. Reading 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 Reading is $1,018/month compared to $958/month in York — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: York is more affordable at $103,100 median vs $109,800.

Median household income in Reading is $45,599 compared to $47,115 in York (-3.2%). York offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Reading spend roughly 26.8% of their income on rent, more than the 24.4% in York.