Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for Allentown, PA
The median monthly rent in Allentown, PA is $1,200, translating to $14,400 in annual gross rental income per unit. The rent-to-price ratio is 0.57% — well below the 1% rule, making pure cash flow investing challenging at median prices.
Renters in Allentown spend approximately 34% of the local median household income ($42,800) on rent. This exceeds the standard 30% affordability threshold, suggesting rent growth may face resistance — but it also means a large portion of the population finds buying even more out of reach, supporting rental demand.
The vacancy rate in Allentown is 5.8%. This is a healthy vacancy rate that indicates balanced supply and demand. You should be able to find quality tenants without extended vacancies, though expect normal turnover periods of 2-4 weeks between tenants. Population growth of 0.3% annually provides stable demand.
Allentown's GRM (price divided by annual rent) is 14.6x. A GRM between 12-16x is moderate and typical of balanced markets. Deals can work but you need to keep expenses controlled. For comparison, the national average GRM for investment-grade rentals is approximately 13-15x.
At the median rent of $1,200/mo, a single-family rental in Allentown generates approximately $14,400 in gross annual income. After accounting for 5.8% vacancy ($835 lost), property taxes of $2,898, insurance (~$840), and maintenance (~$840), the estimated NOI is $8,987 per year, or $749/mo.