Cost of Living in Beech Creek, PA

With a cost of living index of 60, Beech Creek, PA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 40% cheaper than the national average and 23% below the Pennsylvania state average of 83. Beech Creek is a small community of 716 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Beech Creek's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $448 (66% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $170,400 (44% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.2x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Beech Creek is $53,750, which is 28% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 10% 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 Beech Creek. The area sees an average annual temperature of 51.3°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 30°F. Annual rainfall totals 43.5 inches spread over roughly 137 days.

Everyday prices in the State College, PA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

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.