Cost of Living in Brentwood, PA

With a cost of living index of 70, Brentwood, PA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 30% cheaper than the national average and 13% below the Pennsylvania state average of 83. Brentwood is a smaller community of 9,927 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Brentwood's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $822 (38% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $143,700 (53% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Brentwood is $60,432, which is 20% 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 Brentwood. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52.4°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 41.3 inches spread over roughly 161 days.

Everyday prices in the Pittsburgh, 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.