Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Allentown

Affordability in Allentown, PA

According to Census ACS 5-Year data (as of 2024), the median monthly rent in Allentown is $1,317 and the median household income is $55,494 annually. With 57% of residents renting their homes, access to income-restricted housing can make a meaningful difference for many households in the city.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Allentown Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 274 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Keep in mind that crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and local definitions.

Getting Around Allentown

The areas around assisted properties in Allentown score well for walkability and offer moderate biking and transit options, according to Walk Score.

• Walk Score: 94 - Walker's Paradise. Most errands can be accomplished on foot.
• Transit Score: 46 - Some Transit. Public transportation is available for some trips.
• Bike Score: 51. Biking is a reasonable option for some journeys.

Schools

Allentown is served by 36 public schools across 8 districts, including 21 elementary, 7 middle, and 8 high schools, according to NCES Common Core of Data. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check which schools are assigned to any specific address they are considering.

Cost of Living in Allentown, PA

The median household income in Allentown is $55,494 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year estimates. Affordable and income-based housing programs are designed to help renters whose costs would otherwise strain that budget.

The median market rent in Allentown is $1,317 per month, according to Census ACS 5-Year estimates. Rents at HUD-assisted and income-based properties are typically set well below that figure, based on household income and program rules.

• Median household income: $55,494/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $1,317/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Renter households: 57% of occupied housing units (Census ACS 5-Year)

Flood and Environmental Exposure

Of the 13 affordable properties mapped for flood risk in Allentown, 1 falls within a high-risk flood zone. The remaining 12 properties have no high-risk flood designation.