Cost of Living in Bedford, PA

With a cost of living index of 69, Bedford, PA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 31% cheaper than the national average and 14% below the Pennsylvania state average of 83. Bedford is a small community of 2,851 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Bedford's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $674 (49% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $182,300 (40% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.6x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Bedford is $50,570, which is 33% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Bedford. The area sees an average annual temperature of 51°F, with summers averaging 71°F and winters around 31°F. Annual rainfall totals 36.7 inches spread over roughly 136 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.