Looking for an affordable place to live in Pennsylvania? Berks County is home to several cities and towns that offer a lower cost of living compared to the national average.

With the median home price in the U.S. sitting at $355,328, many buyers are searching for budget-friendly alternatives. Fortunately, Berks County has plenty of options where you can find affordable homes in Pennsylvania without sacrificing quality of life.

In this article, we’ll explore the top cities in Berks County to consider, highlighting their median home prices, rental costs, and what makes each area unique. Whether you're looking for cheap houses in PA to buy or a budget-friendly rental, these cities offer great value.

Let’s dive in!

Shillington, PA

Shillington is a small but vibrant borough in Berks County, known for its friendly neighborhoods and suburban feel. It offers a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, making it a great place for families, retirees, and first-time homebuyers.

With tree-lined streets, local parks, and a strong sense of community, Shillington provides a peaceful living environment while still being close to Reading for additional amenities.

Median Home Price: $241,910
Median Rent: $1,350

Why Consider Shillington?

Shillington stands out for its affordable home prices compared to the national median, making it an excellent choice for buyers looking for cheap houses in PA.

The borough is served by the Governor Mifflin School District, which is well-rated and appeals to families. Residents enjoy access to local shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational spots like Shillington Park, which features sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas.

Another perk is the convenient location. Shillington is just a short drive from Reading, providing easy access to job opportunities, hospitals, and cultural attractions without the higher cost of city living.

The housing market includes a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, catering to different budgets and lifestyle needs.

If you're looking for a quiet, affordable town with a strong community feel and easy access to larger cities, Shillington is a great option to consider.

Reading, PA

Reading is the largest city in Berks County and one of the most affordable urban areas in Pennsylvania. Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and revitalization efforts, Reading is an excellent option for those looking for cheap houses in PA while still enjoying city amenities.

It offers a mix of historic row homes, single-family houses, and modern apartments, making it a great choice for a wide range of homebuyers and renters.

Median Home Price: $243,646
Median Rent: $743

Why Consider Reading?

Reading’s biggest draw is its low cost of living. With a median home price significantly below the national average, the city is ideal for first-time buyers, investors, and those looking for budget-friendly housing.

The rental market is also one of the most affordable in the region, making it a great option for those not yet ready to buy.

Beyond affordability, Reading is home to plenty of attractions and conveniences. The city boasts GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, the historic Reading Pagoda, and numerous parks and recreational areas. Residents also enjoy a variety of restaurants, shopping centers, and entertainment venues.

For those who commute, Reading provides easy access to major highways like I-76 and Route 222, connecting residents to nearby cities such as Allentown and Philadelphia.

Additionally, the city has several public and private schools, along with higher education institutions like Alvernia University and Reading Area Community College.

If you’re looking for an affordable city with rich history, cultural diversity, and urban conveniences, Reading is one of the best choices in Berks County.

Topton, PA

Topton is a small, quiet borough in Berks County, ideal for those looking for a tight-knit community and affordable home prices.

While it’s a small town, it offers a peaceful environment with a mix of historic homes and newer developments. Residents appreciate its small-town charm while still having access to larger cities nearby.

Median Home Price: $244,845
Median Rent: $1,122

Why Consider Topton?

Topton is perfect for those looking for a safe, suburban lifestyle with affordable homes in Pennsylvania. The borough is part of the Brandywine Heights Area School District, which is a plus for families with children.

The town itself has a strong sense of community, with local events, parks, and recreational activities that bring residents together.

One of the key advantages of Topton is its proximity to Allentown and Reading, making it a great location for commuters who want a quieter home base without sacrificing job opportunities.

It also offers easy access to Route 222, providing a direct route to major areas in the region.

With its low home prices, family-friendly atmosphere, and convenient location, Topton is an excellent option for homebuyers seeking cheap houses in PA in a relaxed setting.

Temple, PA

Temple is a small unincorporated community in Berks County, known for its suburban feel, affordability, and proximity to Reading. It’s a great option for homebuyers looking for affordable homes in Pennsylvania while staying close to a larger city for work and amenities.

Median Home Price: $250,225
Median Rent: $1,308

Why Consider Temple?

Temple offers a mix of affordability and convenience. The median home price remains well below the national average, making it a great option for first-time buyers and families.

Additionally, its low property taxes and reasonable rent prices make it attractive for both homeowners and renters.

The community is served by the Muhlenberg School District, which is well-regarded in the area. For outdoor lovers, the Jim Dietrich Park is a popular spot, offering walking trails, fishing areas, and picnic spots along the Schuylkill River.

One of Temple’s biggest advantages is its proximity to Reading—just a 10-minute drive away. This allows residents to enjoy city amenities such as shopping, dining, and entertainment while returning home to a quieter neighborhood.

Major highways like Route 222 and Route 61 provide quick access to other parts of Berks County and beyond.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, family-oriented community with easy access to Reading, Temple is a fantastic choice.

Shoemakersville, PA

Shoemakersville is a small riverside borough in Berks County that offers a peaceful, suburban atmosphere with affordable home prices.

Nestled along the Schuylkill River, this charming town is ideal for those who enjoy a quieter lifestyle while still being within a reasonable distance of larger cities like Reading and Allentown.

Median Home Price: $266,298
Median Rent: $1,100

Why Consider Shoemakersville?

Shoemakersville is a great choice for homebuyers seeking affordability and small-town charm. The town has a strong sense of community, with local events, historic buildings, and scenic views along the river. The median home price is still well below the national average, making it a great place to find cheap houses in PA.

The town is served by the Hamburg Area School District, which is a plus for families with school-aged children. Perry Golf Course, located nearby, is a favorite for golf enthusiasts, while parks and walking trails make the area ideal for outdoor lovers.

Shoemakersville is conveniently located near Route 61, providing easy access to Reading, Hamburg, and other parts of Berks County. This makes it a great option for commuters who prefer a quieter home base without sacrificing convenience.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly town with scenic surroundings and a tight-knit community, Shoemakersville is worth considering.

Hamburg, PA

Hamburg is a scenic borough in northern Berks County, known for its historic charm, outdoor recreation, and affordability.

Nestled near the Appalachian Mountains and the Schuylkill River, Hamburg offers a mix of small-town living and easy access to nature, making it a great choice for homebuyers looking for cheap houses in PA.

Median Home Price: $273,178
Median Rent: $1,014

Why Consider Hamburg?

Hamburg is perfect for those who love the outdoors and community-focused living. The town is home to the famous Cabela’s sporting goods store, which attracts visitors from across the region. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, a well-known spot for birdwatching and hiking, is just a short drive away.

With a median home price below $275,000, Hamburg is a great place to find affordable homes in Pennsylvania.

The town has a mix of historic homes, single-family residences, and newer developments, offering something for every type of buyer.

Hamburg is served by the Hamburg Area School District, and its downtown area features local shops, restaurants, and farmers markets. The town also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Hamburg-er Festival, celebrating its local culture.

Located near I-78 and Route 61, Hamburg provides easy access to Reading, Allentown, and Harrisburg, making it a great spot for commuters.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly town with a charming downtown, outdoor activities, and a strong community feel, Hamburg is an excellent choice.

Womelsdorf, PA

Womelsdorf is a historic borough in western Berks County that offers affordable housing, a relaxed lifestyle, and a strong sense of community.

With its roots dating back to the 1700s, the town has a mix of charming historic homes and modern developments, making it a great option for buyers looking for affordable homes in Pennsylvania.

Median Home Price: $284,642
Median Rent: $1,284

Why Consider Womelsdorf?

Womelsdorf is a great choice for those looking for small-town living with convenient access to larger cities. The town is known for its quaint downtown, historic architecture, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also home to Conrad Weiser Homestead, a historic site that adds to the borough’s charm.

For families, Womelsdorf is served by the Conrad Weiser Area School District, which provides quality education for children.

The town also offers local parks, community events, and small businesses, giving residents plenty to enjoy without needing to travel far.

Despite its peaceful, rural feel, Womelsdorf has easy access to Route 422, making it convenient for commuting to Reading, Lebanon, or Harrisburg. This makes it a great option for those who want an affordable home without sacrificing access to urban amenities.

If you’re looking for a historic town with a close-knit community, reasonable home prices, and a quiet lifestyle, Womelsdorf is a great place to consider.

Robesonia, PA

Robesonia is a small, charming borough in Berks County that offers a suburban-rural mix with affordable home options.

Known for its historic appeal, peaceful atmosphere, and strong community ties, Robesonia is a great choice for homebuyers looking for affordable homes in Pennsylvania while still being within a reasonable distance of larger cities.

Median Home Price: $306,629
Median Rent: $1,659

Why Consider Robesonia?

Robesonia provides a balance between small-town charm and modern conveniences. It’s a great option for those looking for a quiet, residential setting with access to outdoor activities and local businesses.

The town is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, giving it a unique character that appeals to many homebuyers.

Families will appreciate that the borough is served by the Conrad Weiser Area School District, which offers quality education and extracurricular activities.

Residents can also enjoy local parks, walking trails, and community events, fostering a friendly and welcoming environment.

One of the key advantages of living in Robesonia is its convenient access to Route 422, which makes commuting to Reading, Lebanon, and other nearby areas easy.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to settle down or an area with great investment potential, Robesonia is worth considering.

If you’re searching for a historic town with a friendly community and affordable home prices, Robesonia should be on your list.

Boyertown, PA

Boyertown is a vibrant borough in Berks County known for its rich history, strong community spirit, and affordable real estate.

With a thriving downtown, scenic surroundings, and excellent local amenities, it’s a great option for homebuyers looking for affordable homes in Pennsylvania while enjoying a small-town atmosphere.

Median Home Price: $313,267
Median Rent: $1,325

Why Consider Boyertown?

Boyertown stands out for its historic charm and cultural appeal. The town is home to the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles, showcasing Pennsylvania’s transportation history.

The State Theatre of Boyertown is another local gem, offering a mix of live performances and classic movie screenings.

Families will appreciate the Boyertown Area School District, which provides strong educational programs and extracurricular activities.

The town also has several parks, walking trails, and recreational spaces, including Boyertown Community Park, which features picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields.

Boyertown offers a walkable downtown filled with local shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy a tight-knit community with small-town conveniences.

Major roads like Route 100 and Route 73 provide easy access to Pottstown, Reading, and the surrounding areas, making Boyertown a great place for commuters.

If you’re looking for a lively small town with a rich history, great schools, and affordable housing, Boyertown is an excellent place to consider.

Find Your Perfect Home with Prime Investments

The most trusted and efficient way to buy a home in Berks County starts here. At Prime Investments, we understand that buying a home isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why we offer personalized solutions to match your needs.

As Berks County’s leading real estate specialists, we provide the flexibility, knowledge, and experience necessary to help you make smart, confident real estate decisions.

At Prime Investments, we simplify the home buying process for homeowners across Pennsylvania by offering fair, fast, and transparent solutions. Our commitment is to ensure a stress-free, reliable experience, so you can find the perfect home with confidence and peace of mind.

Ready to make your move? Contact Prime Investments today and take the first step toward homeownership in Berks County!

9 Affordable Cities in Berks County, PA to LIVE