Allentown PA

In Allentown, the rent-to-income burden runs around 28% — acceptable by national standards. Median income sits at $55,494 and median rent is $1,317/month. A staggering 58% of renters here are housing-cost-burdened — spending 30% or more of their income just to keep a roof overhead. Median home value: $206,600 — that's 3.7× the median income. Only 19% of adults hold a bachelor's degree. The economy runs on trades, logistics, and service work — and the wages reflect that. Employment picture: 9.01% unemployment — a softer job market. Poverty rate: 21.0% — well above the national average. The headline economic numbers hide a bifurcated city. Average commute: 25 minutes — acceptable. Allentown was founded in 1762 — that's 264 years of history baked into the streets. The city covers 18.0 sq miles at 6,991 people/sq mile — moderately dense. Elevation: 338 ft — modest elevation. RoastMyCity overall score: 57/100 — It Depends.