Erie, PA Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Erie, PA: What You Need to Know

Erie in northwestern Pennsylvania is named after the lake, a beautiful backdrop for the city but also the source of heavy, lake-effect snow in the winter.

Weather and Climate

Erie averages 101 inches of snow per year, a lot more than the national average of 28 inches. In 2017, the city experienced a “whiteout Christmas” when a total of 34 inches of snow fell, breaking the city's previous records for snowfall in a single day. The city gets about 44 inches of rain, also higher than the U.S. average of 38 inches. It can be gloomy in Erie, with only 157 sunny days per year versus the U.S. average of 205 sunny days. 

Things to Do in Town 

The Presque Isle State Park, a 3,200-acre peninsula with a gorgeous coastline, is Erie’s most popular destination. It’s a perfect place for swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and bicycling. Take the family to the Erie Zoo Botanical Gardens for a closer look at more than 400 animals from around the world. The zoo features a train and a carousel and landscaped grounds with more than 600 species of plants.

The Cost of Living in Erie 

Affordability is the biggest benefit of a small town like Erie (population: 95,508) whose cost of living is 11.7% lower than the national average. Likewise, food and housing costs are 24% and 31.5% lower than the national average, respectively. Erie’s median gross rent is $698. Pennsylvania residents pay a flat income tax rate of 3.07% and 6% to 8% in sales tax. 

Know Your Neighborhoods

Living downtown offers many perks such as proximity to the business district and a lot of companies, green spaces and trails, Lake Erie sunsets, and entertainment venues. Almost half of all city residents are renters. If you prefer the suburbs and don’t mind the commute, Edinboro and Washington Township are known for their highly-rated public schools. In Edinboro, 55% of all residents rent. Washington Township is the kind of small town where everyone knows everyone.

Shopping Local

Take advantage of Pennsylvania’s biggest gift to shoppers – it has no sales tax on clothing. Visit Millcreek Mall in nearby Millcreek Township, the area’s top shopping and entertainment destination with more than 160 stores, restaurants, and hotels all in one place. It’s one of the country’s largest shopping malls with 2.2 million square feet of space. For a more personal shopping experience, head over to the Shops at the Colony with over 30 locally-owned boutiques and small businesses.