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Mortgage Calculator Pennsylvania — Free 2026

Calculate your monthly mortgage payment for a Pennsylvania home. Includes property tax (1.49%) and insurance estimates.

Please enter a valid home price.
Please enter a valid percentage (0–100).
Please enter a valid interest rate.
Please enter a valid tax rate.
Please enter a valid insurance amount.

Your Mortgage Breakdown

Monthly Payment (PITI)
Principal & Interest
Property Tax (monthly)
Insurance (monthly)
Total Interest Over Life
Total Cost

How It Works

  1. Enter home price and down payment
  2. Set loan term and interest rate
  3. Add taxes and insurance
  4. Review your results
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Understanding Mortgages in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the most affordable states in the Northeast for homebuyers, with a statewide median price well below neighboring New York and New Jersey. The state offers two major metro markets — Philadelphia in the east and Pittsburgh in the west — along with charming small cities and rural communities. However, property taxes vary dramatically by school district, making it important to calculate your full PITI before committing to a purchase.

Pennsylvania Housing Market Overview

The median home price in Pennsylvania is approximately $290,000 as of 2026. Pittsburgh stands out as one of the most affordable major metros in the country, with a median around $230,000 and numerous neighborhoods offering homes under $200,000. Philadelphia's market is more expensive but still well below New York and Washington DC, with a city median of roughly $280,000 and suburban markets (Montgomery, Chester, Bucks counties) ranging from $350,000 to $550,000. Smaller cities like Allentown, Harrisburg, Scranton, and Erie offer entry points in the $150,000–$250,000 range. For a broader comparison, use our Mortgage Calculator USA.

Property Taxes and School Districts

Pennsylvania's average effective property tax rate of 1.49% is above the national average, but the real story is the variation. Property taxes in PA are primarily driven by school district funding, and the state has over 500 school districts with widely different tax rates. Some districts in the Philadelphia suburbs (Lower Merion, Radnor) and northeast PA have effective rates exceeding 2.5–3%, while rural districts may be under 1%. When evaluating a home, always look up the specific school district millage rate — not just the county average. The total tax bill is a combination of school, county, and municipal taxes.

Philadelphia's Realty Transfer Tax

Buyers in Philadelphia face a combined realty transfer tax of 4.278% (3.278% city + 1% state). By custom, this is split between buyer and seller, meaning each pays about 2.14%. On a $290,000 property, that is roughly $6,200 for each party — a significant closing cost to budget for. Outside Philadelphia, the combined transfer tax is typically 2% (1% state + 1% local), split evenly. Pennsylvania does not charge sales tax on home purchases. To evaluate how closing costs affect your long-term investment, try our compound interest calculator.

Tips for Pennsylvania Homebuyers

First-time buyers should explore PHFA (Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency) programs, including the Keystone Home Loan with competitive rates and the Keystone Advantage Assistance Loan providing up to $6,000 for down payment and closing costs. Pennsylvania also exempts most food and clothing from sales tax, which helps with the overall cost of living. If buying in Philadelphia, research the 10-year property tax abatement for new construction and major renovations — it can save tens of thousands over the abatement period.

For informational purposes only. This calculator provides estimates based on the values you enter. Actual mortgage payments may vary depending on your lender, credit profile, PMI, HOA dues and other factors. Consult a qualified mortgage professional before making financial decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Pennsylvania property taxes vary by county?
Pennsylvania property taxes vary widely by school district, not just county. The statewide average is about 1.49%, but some school districts in the Philadelphia suburbs and northeast PA exceed 3%. Rural counties tend to have lower rates. School taxes typically make up 50–70% of the total property tax bill. Always check the specific millage rate for your school district before buying.
What is the Philadelphia realty transfer tax?
Philadelphia charges a combined realty transfer tax of 4.278% on property sales — 3.278% city tax plus 1% state tax. This is split between buyer and seller (each pays half by custom, though it is negotiable). On a $290,000 home, the total transfer tax is approximately $12,406. Outside Philadelphia, the combined transfer tax is typically 2% (1% state + 1% local).
What first-time buyer programs does Pennsylvania offer?
The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) offers several programs for first-time buyers including the Keystone Home Loan with competitive rates, the Keystone Advantage Assistance Loan providing up to $6,000 for down payment and closing costs, and the HFA Preferred program with reduced mortgage insurance. Income and purchase price limits apply and vary by county.
Is Pennsylvania an affordable state to buy a home?
Pennsylvania offers moderate home prices with a statewide median around $290,000 — below the national average. Pittsburgh is one of the most affordable major metros in the US with a median under $250,000. Philadelphia and its suburbs are pricier but still well below NYC and DC. The main cost concern is property taxes, which can be high in certain school districts.

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