Scranton, PA vs State College, PA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Scranton is 28.5% cheaper than State College. With a cost index of 74 vs 104, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Scranton to State College should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Scranton is $991/month compared to $1,229/month in State College — a 19% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Scranton is more affordable at $141,700 median vs $414,400.

Median household income in Scranton is $49,531 compared to $47,132 in State College (+5.1%). Scranton offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Scranton spend roughly 24% of their income on rent, less than the 31.3% in State College. The Scranton ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.