Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is known for its blend of rich heritage, small-town charm, and growing urban development. But beyond its beauty and community appeal, many are asking: Is it an affordable place to live?
Let's break down the cost of living in Lancaster and see how it stacks up against national averages.
Housing Costs: Relatively Affordable
One of Lancaster’s biggest draws is its affordable housing. As of early 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,452 per month, which is lower than the national average of $1,627. For homebuyers, the median home price is about $242,800, compared to the U.S. median of $338,100.
Utilities: Slightly Above Average
Utility costs in Lancaster are slightly higher than average. Residents typically spend around $357 per month for electricity, gas, water, and internet services. While it’s not excessive, it can add up for larger households.
Grocery Prices: Competitive and Manageable
Groceries are generally affordable in Lancaster. Residents spend about $278 per month per person. Some typical prices for everyday items include:
- Milk (1 gallon): $4.42
- Bread (1 lb): $2.93
- Eggs (12): $4.92
- Chicken breast (1 lb): $4.29
- Apples (1 lb): $2.70
These prices are competitive compared to the national average.
Transportation: Budget-Friendly
Transportation is relatively manageable in Lancaster. A single adult can expect to spend about $373 per month, which includes costs for fuel, insurance, and vehicle maintenance. While public transportation is available, most residents rely on personal vehicles.
Healthcare: A Slight Premium
Healthcare in Lancaster costs slightly more than the national average, averaging $720 per month or about $8,641 annually per person. Despite the cost, the region is known for having quality hospitals and access to specialists.
Overall Cost of Living Index
Lancaster’s overall cost of living index is 91.3, which is below the U.S. average of 100. This makes it about 9% more affordable than the average American city — largely due to reasonable housing and food costs.
Final Thoughts: Is Lancaster Affordable?
In summary, Lancaster offers a cost of living that is generally below the national average, particularly in housing and groceries. While utilities and healthcare can run slightly higher, the overall balance makes Lancaster an affordable and attractive place to live for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
References:
Apartments.com. (2025). Lancaster, PA rent trends. CoStar Group. https://www.apartments.com/rent-market-trends/lancaster-pa/
Numbeo. (2025). Cost of living in Lancaster, PA. https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Lancaster-PA
Sperling’s Best Places. (2025). Cost of living in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. https://www.bestplaces.net/cost_of_living/city/pa/lancaster
SoFi. (2025). Cost of living in Pennsylvania. Social Finance, Inc. https://www.sofi.com/cost-of-living-in-pennsylvania/5.
Sorgen, C. (2022, May 17). Plain fun: A Getaway to Lancaster, PA.. JMORE.
https://jmoreliving.com/2022/05/17/plain-fun-a-getaway-to-lancaster-pa/