Average Rent in York, PA↓ Rents falling 0.6% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 459,312
Market Overview
York, PA has rental prices ranging from $951/month to $1,846/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,042/month — 26% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $82,238/year, spending $1,042/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How York Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,327/month, York ranks #15 most expensive of the 57 cities tracked in Pennsylvania — pricier than 83% of all US cities in our data.
The York Rental Market
The York, PA area has a population of about 459,312 and 24% 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 York, PA have fallen by $8/month (0.6%) over the past year, from $1,335 to $1,327. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in York, PA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $41,680. The local median household income of $82,238 exceeds that threshold by $40,558, making York relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in York, PA is $278,056, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 17.5. With a break-even horizon of approximately 17 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Neighborhoods
Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across York's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are North York ($181,743 median home value), Veterans Memorial Park ($188,664 median home value), West York ($190,409 median home value). Rental prices typically follow home value patterns, with premium neighborhoods commanding higher rents than outer areas. Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is York, 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 York?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real York data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $278,056 home at 7% rate
Living in York
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in YorkSalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in PASee how York ranks statewide
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