Average Rent in Allentown, PA↑ Rents rising 5.7% YoY🔺 3rd priciest in PA

Allentown, PA has rental prices ranging from $1,033/month to $2,005/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,213/month — 13% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $82,602/year, spending $1,213/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Allentown Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,507/month, Allentown ranks #3 most expensive of the 51 cities tracked in Pennsylvania — pricier than 92% of all US cities in our data.

The Allentown Rental Market

The Allentown, PA area has a population of about 866,764 and 31% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Allentown, PA have risen by $81/month (5.7%) over the past year, from $1,426 to $1,507. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Allentown, PA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $48,520. The local median household income of $82,602 exceeds that threshold by $34,082, making Allentown relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Allentown, PA is $315,675, 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 Allentown's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are 1st Ward ($186,550 median home value), Jordan Heights/Old Fairgrounds ($200,062 median home value), 6th Ward ($203,829 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.

Is Allentown, PA Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Allentown?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Allentown

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.