A+
9%
Overall NAT. AVG.
1%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
35%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Wilkinsburg Pennsylvania National
Cost of living9197100
Groceries99100100
Health care10199100
Housing6590100
Transportation105101100
Utilities10499100
Lifestyle & Entertainment100100100
Household Items10099100
Education & Childcare104101100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Wilkinsburg, PA

Understanding the cost of living in Wilkinsburg can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Wilkinsburg cost of living index is 91, which is 9% lower than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

The cost of living in Wilkinsburg closely mirrors the national average in comparison to other cities nationwide. Essential items such as groceries, houshold expenses, health care and utilities are priced at a level consistent with similar urban areas. This means that residents of Wilkinsburg can anticipate that their daily expenses will remain reasonably in line with those of an average city, contributing to a manageable cost of living.

Is Wilkinsburg Affordable?

Is Wilkinsburg affordable? It's a key consideration when pondering a move, as affordability often shapes your choices. The cost of living index (we discussed it earlier), coupled with housing costs and income levels, serves as the cornerstone for determining a location's affordability. Take Wilkinsburg, for instance, where the median home price falls 47.6% lower than the national average, and monthly rent rates are 7.3% lower than usual. Additionally, median income levels contribute to the equation, with Wilkinsburg flaunting a median household income of $56,932, 30% lower than the national norm.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Wilkinsburg?

Transportation: In areas where public transportation is scarce or unavailable, residents often find themselves compelled to own and upkeep vehicles, thereby increasing the overall cost of living. Monthly expenses encompass fuel, insurance, routine maintenance and potentially lease or financing payments. In Wilkinsburg, the transportation index is 5% higher than the national average.

Utilities: Much like any other costs, utility expenses can exhibit considerable variations, influenced by factors such as climate, available energy sources, geographic location and state regulations. The costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can vary significantly depending on the city or state in question. In Wilkinsburg, the utilities index stands at 3.6% higher than the national average.

Subsidies: Certain cities or states may implement government subsidies or assistance programs with the goal of alleviating the cost of living pressures on their residents. These programs encompass a broad spectrum of support mechanisms, including Medicare, Medicaid, housing subsidies, low-income home energy assistance programs, school lunch programs, supplemental nutrition assistance programs, student loans, electric vehicle tax credits, affordable care act subsidies and farming subsidies. Areas offering fewer subsidies may experience a rise in their cost of living.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Wilkinsburg shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Wilkinsburg is 7% lower than the Pennsylvania average
  • The cost of living in Wilkinsburg is 9% lower than the national average
  • Wilkinsburg housing is 35% lower than the national average
  • Pennsylvania general sales tax is 18% higher than the national average
  • Pennsylvania state income tax is 18% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Wilkinsburg

See all the best places to live around Wilkinsburg

Compare Wilkinsburg, PA Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$81,643$6,804$1,905$2,450
      Renters$47,324$3,944$1,104$1,420
      A good indicator of the general affordability of housing in Wilkinsburg, PA, is the percentage of monthly income that should be spent on housing expenses, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Generally speaking, no more than 28 percent of your total gross income should be spent on your housing expenses and not more than 36 percent of your gross income on total expenses, including debts. In Wilkinsburg, the median monthly income is $81,643 for those who own their own homes. Under the standard rule, that income level would allow for $1,905 to be budgeted for housing expenses each month, at the most. Renters, on the other hand, earn about $47,324, per the median income in the area. That would allow for renters to spend up to $1,104 on monthly rental expenses.

      Pennsylvania Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Pennsylvania 6% 8%

      Pennsylvania Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Pennsylvania 3.07% 3.07%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Harrison City, PA811021.8%
      North Braddock, PA4,8608118.8%
      Duquesne, PA5,7368217.7%
      Rankin, PA2,0028317.4%
      Edgewood CDP, PA2,5218317.4%
      Wilkinsburg, PA15,913919.4%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Middleburg Heights, OH15,913955.3%
      Frankfort, IN15,9068416.0%
      Welby, CO15,92211717.0%
      Powder Springs, GA15,8991033.1%
      Comox, BC15,938n/a 
      Wilkinsburg, PA15,913919.4%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.