Average Rent in Mercer County, PA↑ Rents rising 3.2% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 109,852
Market Overview
Mercer County, PA has rental prices ranging from $716/month to $1,615/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $810/month — 42% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $60,614/year, spending $810/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Mercer County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,028/month, Mercer County ranks #33 most expensive of the 57 cities tracked in Pennsylvania — pricier than 53% of all US cities in our data.
The Mercer County Rental Market
The Mercer County, PA area has a population of about 109,852 and 28% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Mercer County, PA have risen by $32/month (3.2%) over the past year, from $996 to $1,028. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Mercer County, PA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $32,400. The local median household income of $60,614 exceeds that threshold by $28,214, making Mercer County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Mercer County, PA Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in PAlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pike County | $1,270 | $1,279 | $1,657 | $2,152 | — |
| Pittsburgh | $1,075 | $1,146 | $1,389 | $1,773 | — |
| Allentown | $1,302 | $1,519 | $1,839 | $2,306 | — |
| Harrisburg | $1,166 | $1,285 | $1,598 | $2,055 | — |
| Scranton | $949 | $1,106 | $1,363 | $1,786 | — |
| Lancaster | $1,152 | $1,256 | $1,553 | $1,978 | — |
Rent or Buy in Mercer County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Mercer County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Mercer County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
Moving Cost Estimator
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Mercer CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in PASee how Mercer County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Mercer CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋PA Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections