Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Glenwood, PA

Last Updated: January 7, 2026By Tags:
Glenwood, PA

Salary And Cost Of Living In Glenwood PA

Glenwood, Pennsylvania is a small community near Erie that offers a balance of modest living costs and competitive wages for the region. As more people explore northwestern Pennsylvania for affordable housing and a quieter lifestyle, understanding the average salary, cost of living, and housing market in Glenwood, PA becomes increasingly important. The following guide provides an in-depth look at how far your money goes in Glenwood, helping you decide whether this neighborhood is the right fit for you and your family.

Average Salary In Glenwood PA

The average salary in Glenwood, PA is influenced heavily by its proximity to Erie and the broader Erie County job market. Many residents work in nearby healthcare, education, manufacturing, and service industries.

While exact figures can vary by occupation, experience level, and industry, Glenwood incomes generally track close to or slightly below statewide averages, with a lower overall cost of living helping to offset the difference. Below is an illustrative look at typical salary ranges in the Glenwood area:

Job Category Typical Salary Range (Annual) Notes
Healthcare (RN, LPN, Techs) $45,000 – $80,000 Driven by major hospital systems in the Erie area
Education (K–12 & Higher Ed) $38,000 – $75,000 Public schools and nearby colleges provide steady employment
Manufacturing & Skilled Trades $40,000 – $70,000 Includes machinists, technicians, and plant workers
Retail & Service $25,000 – $40,000 Entry-level roles with opportunities for advancement
Professional & Office Roles $40,000 – $85,000 Covers finance, management, IT, and administrative work

Household income in Glenwood, PA often benefits from dual earners, and many residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle due to relatively reasonable housing and utility costs compared with larger metropolitan areas.

Cost Of Living In Glenwood PA

The cost of living in Glenwood, PA is one of the community’s most attractive features. When compared with national averages, Glenwood tends to offer lower housing costs, manageable transportation expenses, and moderate healthcare prices. Groceries and everyday essentials are also reasonably priced, thanks in part to access to regional and local retailers in the Erie area.

Below is an example of how Glenwood’s cost of living compares to an indexed national average of 100:

Category Glenwood, PA Index National Average Index
Overall Cost Of Living 88 100
Housing 80 100
Groceries 95 100
Utilities 92 100
Transportation 90 100
Healthcare 93 100

Because Glenwood, Pennsylvania is part of a broader regional economy, residents benefit from relatively short commutes, modest property taxes compared to some other states, and accessible local services. For many individuals and families, this translates into a higher quality of life, even if nominal salaries are not as high as those in larger metropolitan areas.

Average Home Values And Rents In Glenwood PA

Another key factor in evaluating the cost of living in Glenwood, PA is the housing market. The area is known for its generally affordable home prices, making it an appealing option for first-time homebuyers, downsizing retirees, and renters seeking value.

The following table provides an overview of average home values and rents in Glenwood, PA based on typical regional market conditions:

Housing Type Typical Price / Rent Description
Single-Family Home (Median Value) $150,000 – $190,000 Modest lot sizes with a mix of older and updated homes
Townhome / Duplex $130,000 – $170,000 Appealing to first-time buyers and investors
One-Bedroom Apartment Rent $700 – $900 / month Popular choice for singles and young professionals
Two-Bedroom Apartment Rent $850 – $1,100 / month Common among small families and roommates
Single-Family Home Rent $1,100 – $1,500 / month Often includes yard space and additional storage

To illustrate how housing costs compare with income, here is a simple chart-style table showing approximate relationships between median income and typical housing expenses in Glenwood, PA:

Metric Estimated Amount
Estimated Median Household Income $55,000 – $65,000
Estimated Median Monthly Mortgage (Owner-Occupied) $900 – $1,200
Estimated Median Monthly Rent $850 – $1,050
Housing Share Of Income (Approximate) 20% – 30%

These ranges mean that home affordability in Glenwood, Pennsylvania is relatively strong compared with many urban markets, giving residents an opportunity to build equity while maintaining manageable monthly payments.

Best Neighborhoods In Glenwood PA

Although Glenwood itself is a fairly compact neighborhood, the broader area around Glenwood, PA includes several appealing residential pockets. Each has its own character, housing stock, and advantages, making it possible to find a location that suits a variety of preferences and budgets.

Below is a high-level overview of some of the best places to live in and around Glenwood, Pennsylvania:

Neighborhood / Area Key Features Typical Housing
Central Glenwood, PA Close to local parks, short drive to Downtown Erie, community feel Older single-family homes, some smaller rentals
East Glenwood Area Quieter streets, convenient access to main commuter routes Mix of ranch-style homes and mid-century properties
South Glenwood / Adjacent Suburban Areas Family-oriented blocks, proximity to schools and shopping Moderately priced single-family homes and duplexes
North Glenwood Corridors Closer to commercial amenities, good for commuters Smaller homes, apartments, and some townhomes

Choosing the best neighborhood in Glenwood, PA depends on what you value most: walkability, yard space, distance to work, or proximity to schools and parks. However, across much of Glenwood, you will find a consistent sense of community and relatively low housing costs compared to many other regions.

Schools And Education In Glenwood PA

For families considering a move, the schools in Glenwood, PA are a vital part of the decision-making process. Glenwood is served by local public school districts associated with the Erie area, and families also have access to nearby private and parochial options.

While specific school ratings can change over time, the broader Erie region offers a range of educational resources, including early childhood programs, K–12 public education, and vocational and technical training opportunities. The presence of higher education institutions in and around Erie further enriches the learning environment.

Here is a summary of educational options typically available to residents of Glenwood, Pennsylvania:

Education Level Option Type Notes
Preschool & Early Childhood Public and private programs Mixed half-day and full-day options in and around Glenwood
Elementary & Middle School Local public schools Neighborhood-based enrollment with busing and support services
High School Regional public high schools Offer core academics, athletics, and extracurriculars
Private & Parochial Schools Faith-based and independent schools Located within a short drive of Glenwood
Colleges & Universities Nearby higher education institutions Options for associate, bachelor’s, and graduate degrees

Families seeking detailed performance data should review current school ratings, graduation rates, and academic offerings. Overall, Glenwood, PA provides access to a range of educational opportunities that complement its affordable cost of living and manageable salary expectations.

Living In Glenwood PA Final Thoughts

When you consider the salary and cost of living in Glenwood, PA, a clear picture emerges of a community where earnings and expenses are relatively well-balanced. Average incomes, while modest compared with large metropolitan centers, are supported by lower housing costs, reasonable everyday expenses, and a strong sense of neighborhood stability. Homebuyers and renters benefit from accessible property values, while families appreciate the range of educational options in and around Glenwood.

For anyone evaluating a move to northwestern Pennsylvania, Glenwood, Pennsylvania stands out as a practical and appealing option. By weighing salaries, cost of living, housing values, neighborhoods, and schools together, prospective residents can make a well-informed decision about whether Glenwood matches their financial goals and lifestyle priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Glenwood, PA

What is the general cost of living like in Glenwood, PA?

The cost of living in Glenwood, PA is generally considered moderate compared to larger metropolitan areas in Pennsylvania. Housing prices and rental rates are typically more affordable than in nearby cities, and everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation are relatively stable. Residents often find that their income stretches further in Glenwood, which makes it attractive for families, retirees, and professionals seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life.

What are the housing options and neighborhoods like in Glenwood, PA?

Glenwood, PA offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and smaller apartment buildings, with many properties featuring yards and tree-lined streets. Neighborhoods tend to be quiet and residential, with a community-oriented atmosphere. Older homes with character sit alongside newer developments, providing choices for different budgets and preferences. Prospective residents can typically find both rental and ownership opportunities, and local real estate agents often highlight Glenwood’s stability and long-term residents as key strengths of the housing market.

What schools and educational resources are available in Glenwood, PA?

Families in Glenwood, PA are served by nearby public school districts that offer elementary, middle, and high school education, as well as access to vocational and technical programs. Many residents appreciate the smaller class sizes and the sense of familiarity between teachers, students, and families. In addition to public schools, there may be private or parochial options within a reasonable commute. Community resources such as public libraries, after-school programs, and youth recreation leagues support educational and social development outside the classroom.

What is the transportation and commute situation in Glenwood, PA?

Most residents of Glenwood, PA rely on personal vehicles for daily transportation, as the area is primarily car-dependent. Local roads are usually easy to navigate, with less congestion than in larger cities. Commuters often travel to nearby towns and employment centers via regional highways, and typical drive times are considered manageable by area standards. Public transportation options, if available, may be limited to regional bus routes, so prospective residents who depend on transit should review schedules and coverage in advance. Walking and biking are feasible in some residential pockets, particularly for short trips and recreation.

What amenities, recreation, and community life can residents expect in Glenwood, PA?

Residents of Glenwood, PA enjoy access to local parks, outdoor recreation areas, and community facilities that support an active lifestyle. Nearby amenities often include playgrounds, walking trails, athletic fields, and seasonal sports programs. Day-to-day needs are typically met by local shops, grocery stores, and service businesses, with larger retail centers a short drive away. Community life is often characterized by neighborhood events, school-related activities, and gatherings organized by civic or faith-based groups. The overall atmosphere is that of a small, close-knit community where residents value safety, familiarity, and a slower pace of life compared to urban environments.

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