Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for Reading, PA
The median monthly rent in Reading, PA is $1,020, translating to $12,240 in annual gross rental income per unit. The rent-to-price ratio is 0.70% — below the 1% rule but within a range where deals can work with good financing.
Renters in Reading spend approximately 35% of the local median household income ($34,800) 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 Reading is 6.5%. 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 0.1% annually provides stable demand.
Reading's GRM (price divided by annual rent) is 11.8x. A GRM under 12x is excellent — it means you're paying less than 12 years of gross rent for the property, suggesting strong income relative to price. For comparison, the national average GRM for investment-grade rentals is approximately 13-15x.
At the median rent of $1,020/mo, a single-family rental in Reading generates approximately $12,240 in gross annual income. After accounting for 6.5% vacancy ($796 lost), property taxes of $2,059, insurance (~$580), and maintenance (~$580), the estimated NOI is $8,225 per year, or $685/mo.