Cost of Living in Altoona, PA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Altoona? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $9,390 per year — combining federal taxes with Pennsylvania's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,138/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Altoona metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $46,954, or roughly $3,913 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Altoona metro has a cost of living index of 53.0 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 47% below the national average, Altoona is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Altoona represents approximately 20% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.