Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for Altoona, PA
The median monthly rent in Altoona, PA is $960, translating to $11,520 in annual gross rental income per unit. The rent-to-price ratio is 0.56% — well below the 1% rule, making pure cash flow investing challenging at median prices.
Renters in Altoona spend approximately 24% of the local median household income ($47,800) on rent. This is well below the 30% threshold, suggesting significant headroom for rent increases. Tenants can afford to pay more, which is bullish for landlords.
The vacancy rate in Altoona is 6%. 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 0.2% annually provides stable demand.
Altoona's GRM (price divided by annual rent) is 14.8x. 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 $960/mo, a single-family rental in Altoona generates approximately $11,520 in gross annual income. After accounting for 6% vacancy ($691 lost), property taxes of $2,346, insurance (~$680), and maintenance (~$680), the estimated NOI is $7,123 per year, or $594/mo.
Altoona vs Pennsylvania state average and national average across key investment metrics. Altoona outperforms both benchmarks on cap rate.