Cost of Living in Reading, PA
Population: 94,836 • 2026 Data
$45,599
Median Household Income
-41% vs national
$1,018
Median Monthly Rent
-24% vs national
$109,800
Median Home Value
-68% vs national
12.1%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Reading
The median home value in Reading, PA is $109,800. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,018, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $966.
Rent-to-income ratio: 26.8%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Reading, PA is $45,599. The unemployment rate stands at 12.1%, with a labor force of 43,869 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.