Cost of Living in Reading, PA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
83.5
100 = national avg
-16.5 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$36,748
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$86,859
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing91.9
Food84.9
Transportation69.7
Healthcare87.9
Utilities89.3
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,237
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,575
per month
The overall cost of living index in Reading is 83.5, which is 16.5% below the national average. Housing costs are below the national average at an index of 91.9. A single adult needs to earn approximately $36,748 per year to cover basic expenses.