Cost of Living in West Decatur, PA

With a cost of living index of 72, West Decatur, PA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 28% cheaper than the national average and 11% below the Pennsylvania state average of 83. West Decatur is a small community of 624 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in West Decatur's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,053 (20% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $90,600 (70% 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 West Decatur is $38,173, which is 49% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 33% of household income on rent. This exceeds the recommended 30% threshold, meaning many renters here are cost-burdened. 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 West Decatur. The area sees an average annual temperature of 48.7°F, with summers averaging 69°F and winters around 28°F. Annual rainfall totals 40.3 inches spread over roughly 177 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

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.