Assisted living in Pennsylvania costs approximately $6,480 per month on average (about $77,760 annually), based on the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey. This places Pennsylvania slightly above the national median of $6,200 per month, reflecting the influence of major metropolitan markets and a diverse range of senior housing options across the state.
Pricing varies significantly across the state. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh frequently exceed the statewide median due to higher labor costs, healthcare infrastructure concentration, and stronger demand, while smaller regional markets such as Scranton and Erie offer more moderate entry-level pricing.
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Cost Snapshot (2026)
| Metric | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Statewide Median | ~$6,480/mo |
| Annual Equivalent | ~$77,760 |
| Lowest Major Markets | Scranton, Erie, Reading |
| Highest Major Markets | Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Bethlehem |
| Compared to National Median | Slightly Above |
| Most Comparable States | Ohio, Maryland, Virginia |
On This Page
- Average assisted living cost in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania monthly pricing
- City-by-city assisted living costs
- Regional cost patterns
- Medicaid coverage in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania vs other states
- Long-term cost planning
- How to compare Pennsylvania communities
How Pennsylvania Assisted Living Costs Compare Nationally
Pennsylvania’s assisted living median of $6,480 per month exceeds the national median of $6,200 per month by approximately $280 per month — a modest premium reflecting the state’s mix of major metropolitan healthcare markets and more moderate interior and rural regions.
Among neighboring states, Pennsylvania is positioned in the mid-range. New Jersey at $8,710/mo, Maryland at $7,173/mo, and New York at $7,110/mo all exceed Pennsylvania. Ohio at $6,103/mo and West Virginia at $6,340/mo are both lower.
For broader nationwide benchmarks and interstate pricing comparisons, see our guide to the national average assisted living cost.
What Is the Average Cost of Assisted Living in Pennsylvania?
The CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey reports Pennsylvania’s assisted living median at approximately $77,760 per year, about $6,480 per month.
Estimated Annual Cost
At $6,480/month:
| Period | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 Year | $77,760 |
| 3 Years | $233,280 |
| 5 Years | $388,800 |
These projections do not account for annual rate increases, which typically range between 3% and 7%.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost Per Month in Pennsylvania?
Most assisted living communities in Pennsylvania charge between $5,200 and $7,800 per month, with a statewide median near $6,480 per month.
Monthly pricing varies by city, care level, and community type. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh frequently trend toward the higher end of the statewide range, while smaller regional markets offer more moderate pricing.
Assisted Living Costs by City in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s economic and geographic diversity creates meaningful pricing variation across the state. The figures below reflect planning ranges scaled from the CareScout 2025 statewide median of $6,480 per month.
| City | Low Range | High Range | Estimated Median | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | $6,100 | $8,300 | ~$7,200 | ~$86,400 |
| Pittsburgh | $5,800 | $7,800 | ~$6,800 | ~$81,600 |
| Bethlehem | $5,400 | $7,300 | ~$6,350 | ~$76,200 |
| Allentown | $5,300 | $7,200 | ~$6,250 | ~$75,000 |
| Harrisburg | $5,250 | $7,050 | ~$6,150 | ~$73,800 |
| Lancaster | $5,150 | $6,950 | ~$6,050 | ~$72,600 |
| Reading | $5,050 | $6,850 | ~$5,950 | ~$71,400 |
| Erie | $4,900 | $6,600 | ~$5,750 | ~$69,000 |
| Scranton | $4,800 | $6,500 | ~$5,650 | ~$67,800 |
Philadelphia consistently reflects the highest assisted living pricing in the state due to dense healthcare infrastructure, wage competition, and population concentration. Scranton and Erie offer the most moderate entry-level pricing among major Pennsylvania markets.
Highest and Lowest Assisted Living Costs in Pennsylvania
Highest-Cost Pennsylvania Markets
- Philadelphia — The most expensive major market in the state, reflecting dense healthcare infrastructure including Penn Medicine, Jefferson Health, and Temple Health, along with strong labor market competition and high real estate costs.
- Pittsburgh — Western Pennsylvania’s largest market benefits from UPMC and Allegheny Health Network — two major health systems that anchor strong senior housing demand and above-median pricing.
- Bethlehem — Lehigh Valley market reflects pricing driven by proximity to the Philadelphia metro and St. Luke’s University Health Network.
More Affordable Pennsylvania Markets
- Scranton — Northeastern Pennsylvania market with the most moderate pricing in the state, reflecting lower real estate costs and more limited labor market competition.
- Erie — Northwestern Pennsylvania’s largest city offers below-median pricing with access to UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital.
- Reading — Berks County market offers competitive pricing at below the statewide median.
Regional Assisted Living Cost Patterns in Pennsylvania
Assisted living pricing in Pennsylvania varies meaningfully by broader geographic region.
Southeast Pennsylvania (Philadelphia and Suburbs)
Pricing: $6,100 to $8,300+ per month
Southeast Pennsylvania consistently reflects the highest assisted living pricing in the state. Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs benefit from the densest healthcare infrastructure in Pennsylvania, including Penn Medicine, Jefferson Health, Temple Health, and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Strong private-pay demand, elevated real estate costs, and competitive wage structures all contribute to above-median pricing throughout this corridor.
Western Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh)
Pricing: $5,800 to $7,800 per month
Pittsburgh and surrounding Allegheny County communities reflect above-median pricing anchored by UPMC — one of the nation’s largest health systems — and Allegheny Health Network. Pittsburgh’s senior housing market benefits from stable occupancy and strong healthcare-driven demand.
Lehigh Valley (Allentown, Bethlehem)
Pricing: $5,300 to $7,300 per month
The Lehigh Valley reflects above-median pricing driven by proximity to both Philadelphia and New York City, strong economic growth, and St. Luke’s University Health Network. This corridor has seen significant senior housing development in recent years.
Central Pennsylvania (Harrisburg, Lancaster, Reading)
Pricing: $5,050 to $7,050 per month
Central Pennsylvania markets reflect pricing near or slightly below the statewide median. Harrisburg’s state government employment and Penn State Health anchor stable senior housing demand. Lancaster and Reading offer more moderate pricing with access to WellSpan Health and Tower Health.
Northeast and Northwest Pennsylvania (Scranton, Erie)
Pricing: $4,800 to $6,600 per month
These regions typically represent the most affordable assisted living markets in Pennsylvania. Lower real estate costs, smaller population centers, and more limited labor market competition all contribute to below-median pricing. Families comparing regions may find meaningful cost savings in these markets.
Pennsylvania Senior Housing Market Trends (2026)
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh Anchor Statewide Premium Pennsylvania’s two largest cities continue to drive above-median pricing statewide. Healthcare system expansion, stable population aging, and strong private-pay demand support sustained occupancy and pricing resilience in both metro corridors.
Statewide Pricing Slightly Above National Median Pennsylvania’s overall cost structure reflects the state’s mix of high-cost metro markets and more moderate interior regions. At $6,480/mo, Pennsylvania sits modestly above the national median but well below high-cost Northeastern states such as New Jersey and Massachusetts.
Community HealthChoices Program Influences Market Dynamics Pennsylvania’s Medicaid managed care program for long-term services and supports creates unique market dynamics for communities that participate in the program, influencing both pricing structures and facility participation rates.
Annual Rate Increases Consistent with National Trends Annual assisted living rate increases across Pennsylvania typically range between 3% and 7%, consistent with national trends. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh metro communities may experience increases at the higher end of this range.
What Does Assisted Living Typically Include in Pennsylvania?
Assisted living communities in Pennsylvania generally structure pricing into a base monthly rate plus additional care-related fees.
Typically Included in Base Monthly Cost
- Private or semi-private accommodations
- Meals and dining services
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Utilities
- Scheduled transportation
- Social and recreational programming
- Basic assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
Often Billed Separately
- Medication administration
- Higher levels of personal care
- Memory care services
- One-time community or move-in fees
- Specialized therapies
Communities frequently use tiered care models. As a resident’s health needs increase, monthly charges rise accordingly.
Assisted Living vs Other Care Options in Pennsylvania
| Care Type | Average Monthly Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living | ~$6,480 | Moderate daily support |
| Memory Care | ~$7,800–$9,000 | Dementia or Alzheimer’s care |
| Nursing Home | ~$11,954–$13,688/mo | Skilled medical supervision |
| Home Care | ~$6,483/mo | Aging in place with part-time support |
Pennsylvania’s nursing home semi-private room median of $11,954 per month (CareScout 2025) is approximately $5,474 more per month than assisted living — a significant gap for families planning multi-year care. Home care at $6,483 per month is essentially equivalent to the assisted living median, making assisted living the more comprehensive value for seniors who need consistent daily support — providing housing, meals, and structured around-the-clock care at comparable cost.
What Affects Assisted Living Costs in Pennsylvania?
- Location: Philadelphia and Pittsburgh command higher rates due to healthcare infrastructure density, labor market competition, and real estate costs.
- Level of Care Required: Increased assistance with daily living activities raises monthly costs as residents transition to higher care tiers.
- Private vs Shared Units: Private apartments typically cost more than shared accommodations.
- Memory Care Add-Ons: Specialized staffing, secured environments, and enhanced supervision increase pricing.
- Demand Trends: Pennsylvania’s aging population supports stable senior housing demand particularly in major metro corridors.
- Regulatory Environment: Pennsylvania assisted living residences are licensed and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, with staffing, inspection, and compliance standards contributing to operating costs.
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Pennsylvania?
Medicare does not cover long-term assisted living costs.
Pennsylvania Medicaid may provide limited assistance through the Community HealthChoices (CHC) program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. CHC is a managed care program that coordinates long-term services and supports for eligible individuals in community-based settings, including certain assisted living environments.
Important considerations:
- Income and asset limits apply
- Functional eligibility requirements must be met
- Not all assisted living communities participate in CHC
- Coverage generally focuses on care services rather than full room and board
- Program participation varies by region and managed care organization
Families should confirm whether a specific assisted living residence participates in CHC before assuming eligibility. Families should confirm current requirements directly with the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services or consult a qualified elder law advisor.
How Pennsylvania Assisted Living Costs Compare to Other States
Pennsylvania’s median of $6,480/mo sits slightly above the national median and below most neighboring Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern states.
| State | Estimated Monthly Median | Relative to Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | ~$6,480 | — |
| New Jersey | ~$8,710 | Significantly Higher |
| Maryland | ~$7,173 | Higher |
| New York | ~$7,110 | Higher |
| Ohio | ~$6,103 | Lower |
| West Virginia | ~$6,340 | Slightly Lower |
For families comparing Pennsylvania with neighboring New Jersey, Pennsylvania’s median is approximately $2,230 less per month — a difference of over $26,760 per year.
Compare Pennsylvania Assisted Living Costs to Nearby States
- New Jersey assisted living costs
- New York assisted living costs
- Maryland assisted living costs
- Ohio assisted living costs
- West Virginia assisted living costs
Long-Term Cost Planning in Pennsylvania
Assisted living in Pennsylvania should be evaluated as a multi-year financial commitment. At $6,480 per month with a 5% annual increase, projected costs may look like:
| Year | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | $6,480/month |
| Year 2 | $6,804/month |
| Year 3 | $7,144/month |
| Year 4 | $7,501/month |
| Year 5 | $7,876/month |
Over five years, cumulative spending may exceed $421,000, excluding additional care needs or care level transitions.
Families should account not only for annual rate increases but also for potential care level escalations. Transitioning from standard assisted living to memory care in Pennsylvania can increase monthly costs by 15% to 30%, potentially pushing costs above $9,000 per month in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh area communities.
Comparing Philadelphia metro communities with more moderate central or northeastern Pennsylvania markets may provide meaningful financial flexibility — often $1,000 to $1,500 per month in savings — while maintaining access to quality care.
How to Plan for Assisted Living Costs in Pennsylvania
Common financial strategies families use to fund assisted living in Pennsylvania include:
- Home sale proceeds (Philadelphia area real estate values can generate significant equity)
- Long-term care insurance
- Veterans benefits (Aid and Attendance program)
- Retirement income and savings
- Bridge financing
Projecting 3–5 years of potential expenses provides a more realistic financial outlook than planning for a single year.
Who Pennsylvania Assisted Living May Be Best Suited For
Pennsylvania assisted living may appeal most to:
- Seniors prioritizing access to major healthcare systems including Penn Medicine, UPMC, Jefferson Health, and Allegheny Health Network
- Families with established ties to Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or other Pennsylvania communities
- Retirees seeking a Mid-Atlantic market at meaningfully lower cost than New Jersey or New York
- Families comparing Pennsylvania with neighboring Ohio or West Virginia as broadly comparable cost alternatives
- Seniors who can benefit from Pennsylvania’s Community HealthChoices program for Medicaid-eligible care services
How to Compare Assisted Living Communities in Pennsylvania
Because pricing structures vary widely across Pennsylvania, families should request a detailed fee schedule from each community under consideration. Base monthly rates may not reflect higher care tiers, medication management, or memory care services.
When comparing communities, consider:
- What level of care is included in the base rate
- How care levels are assessed and priced over time
- Whether annual rate increases are capped or discretionary
- Staffing ratios and caregiver training standards
- Proximity to hospitals and specialty healthcare providers
- Whether the community participates in Community HealthChoices (CHC)
- Contract structure (month-to-month vs. long-term agreements)
In Philadelphia and Pittsburgh markets, premium pricing does not always correlate directly with care quality. Some communities command elevated rates due to location and newer construction rather than materially different care delivery models.
Requesting a written breakdown of all potential fees — including tiered care adjustments and ancillary service charges — helps families avoid unexpected cost escalations over time.
Families researching assisted living costs often next compare specific communities. See our guide to the best assisted living communities in Pennsylvania to explore highly rated options across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does assisted living cost per month in Pennsylvania?
Most assisted living communities in Pennsylvania range between $5,200 and $7,800 per month, with a statewide median near $6,480 per month based on the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey.
Is Pennsylvania above the national average for assisted living?
Slightly. Pennsylvania’s statewide median of $6,480 per month sits modestly above the national median of $6,200 per month, driven primarily by the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh metropolitan markets.
Which city in Pennsylvania is most expensive for assisted living?
Philadelphia consistently reflects the highest assisted living pricing in the state, with communities frequently ranging between $6,100 and $8,300+ per month, driven by dense healthcare infrastructure, wage competition, and high real estate costs.
How does Pennsylvania compare to neighboring states for assisted living costs?
Pennsylvania’s median of $6,480/mo is well below New Jersey ($8,710/mo), Maryland ($7,173/mo), and New York ($7,110/mo), while slightly above Ohio ($6,103/mo) and West Virginia ($6,340/mo).
Are assisted living costs in Pennsylvania increasing each year?
Yes. Most communities implement annual rate increases between 3% and 7%. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh metro communities may experience increases at the higher end of this range due to labor competition and demand pressure.
Can Medicaid help pay for assisted living in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania Medicaid may provide limited service-based assistance through the Community HealthChoices (CHC) program, though room and board costs are generally not covered. Not all communities participate in CHC. Families should confirm current program details with the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services or a qualified elder law advisor.
Methodology
Pricing estimates are modeled using a range and midpoint planning framework anchored to the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey (data collected July through November 2025, published March 2, 2026). City-level figures are scaled from the statewide median using a standardized methodology applied consistently across all state pages on SeniorCareCostGuide.
State comparisons reflect standardized median estimates used across SeniorCareCostGuide. Long-term projections are illustrative planning models based on consistent annual growth assumptions and are intended for planning purposes only.
For a detailed explanation of how pricing estimates are modeled, see our Assisted Living Cost Methodology.
Sources
- CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey
- State-level pricing estimates modeled using a standardized range and midpoint framework
- Local market observations based on publicly available senior living data and community-level pricing trends
Last reviewed: June 2026.