Average Rent in State College, PA↑ Rents rising 8.7% YoY🔺 4th priciest in PA

State College, PA has rental prices ranging from $1,226/month to $1,897/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,234/month — 12% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $72,748/year, spending $1,234/month on a 1-bedroom represents 20% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How State College Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,431/month, State College ranks #4 most expensive of the 51 cities tracked in Pennsylvania — pricier than 90% of all US cities in our data.

The State College Rental Market

The State College, PA area has a population of about 158,041 and 38% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in State College, PA have risen by $114/month (8.7%) over the past year, from $1,317 to $1,431. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in State College, PA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $49,360. The local median household income of $72,748 exceeds that threshold by $23,388, making State College relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in State College, PA is $417,768, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 24.3. With a break-even horizon of approximately 24 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 State College's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Houserville ($359,575 median home value), Park Forest Village ($418,621 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.

Is State College, PA Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in State College?

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

Living in State College

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