Cost of Living in State College, PA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in State College? 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 ($1,406/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the State College metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $43,738, or roughly $3,645 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The State College metro has a cost of living index of 72.5 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 27% below the national average, State College 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 State College represents approximately 24% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.