Cost of Living in Dover, PA

With a cost of living index of 83, Dover, PA is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 17% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Pennsylvania state average. Dover is a small community of 2,004 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Dover's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,102 (16% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $192,200 (37% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Dover is $77,500, which is 3% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Dover. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52.4°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 42.1 inches spread over roughly 133 days.

Everyday prices in the York-Hanover, 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.