Cost of Living in Reading, PA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Reading? 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 ($1,575/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Reading metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $41,710, or roughly $3,476 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Reading metro has a cost of living index of 82.7 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 17% below the national average, Reading 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 Reading represents approximately 27% of gross income. That approaches the 30% threshold commonly used to define affordability. A smaller unit or a higher salary would improve the picture.