Harrisburg is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,450 per month and slightly lower utility costs compared to the national average.
Is the true cost of living in Harrisburg higher than you think? Let’s take a closer look at the expenses you can expect when living in this charming North Carolina town in 2025.
Housing Costs in Harrisburg
Housing is typically the biggest expense for most households. In Harrisburg, you’ll find a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment averages around $1,450 per month as of 2025. If you’re looking to buy, expect to pay between $350,000 to $450,000 for a 3-bedroom house, depending on the neighborhood and property condition.
Some of the more affordable areas to rent or buy include Caldwell Park and Stallings, while Skybrook and Blume are on the higher end. Many neighborhoods have homeowners associations (HOAs), which can add $100 to $300 per month to your housing costs.
- Renting a 2-bedroom apartment: $1,300 – $1,600/month
- Buying a 3-bedroom house: $350,000 – $450,000
- Typical HOA fees: $100 – $300/month
Utilities and Energy Bills
Harrisburg residents enjoy relatively affordable utility costs. The average monthly energy bill for a 1,000 sq ft apartment is around $120, which includes electricity, gas, and water. High-speed internet adds another $60 to $80 per month. Expect cooling costs to rise in the summer months.
| Utility | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity, Gas, Water | $120 |
| Internet | $60 – $80 |
| Trash and Recycling | $20 – $30 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food costs in Harrisburg are on par with the national average. Plan to budget around $350 per person per month for groceries, household items, and occasional dining out. A gallon of milk runs about $3.50, while a loaf of bread is $2.30.
Here’s a typical grocery basket for a Harrisburg resident:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.30
- Dozen eggs: $2.00
- Pound of chicken breast: $3.80
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Harrisburg’s property tax rate is 0.5%, which is slightly lower than the Mecklenburg County average of 0.6%. For a $400,000 home, that equates to $2,000 per year in property taxes. North Carolina has a flat income tax rate of 4.99% and a sales tax of 7.25% as of 2025.
| Tax | Rate |
|---|---|
| Property Tax | 0.5% |
| Income Tax | 4.99% |
| Sales Tax | 7.25% |
Monthly Budget Summary
| Household | Estimated Monthly Budget |
|---|---|
| Single Person | $2,800 – $3,200 |
| Couple | $4,000 – $4,500 |
| Family of Four | $5,500 – $6,000 |
Keep in mind these are gross monthly income estimates (pre-tax). Your actual take-home pay will be lower after taxes and other deductions.
Lifestyle Considerations
Living in Harrisburg offers a balance of affordability and suburban convenience. Commute times to Charlotte average 25-35 minutes, which is manageable for most. Homes tend to be newer and more spacious compared to inner Charlotte neighborhoods.
Harrisburg has ample parks, walking trails, and community events that add to the quality of life without high costs. However, entertainment and dining options are more limited than in Charlotte proper. It’s a tradeoff between lower housing costs and more space versus urban amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What salary do you need to live comfortably in Harrisburg?
A: A comfortable lifestyle for a couple in Harrisburg would require around $4,500 per month in gross income (pre-tax). For a family of four, aim for at least $6,000 monthly. - Q: Is Harrisburg cheaper than Charlotte?
A: Yes, housing costs in Harrisburg are typically 15-20% lower than in Charlotte. However, you may spend more on transportation with a longer commute. - Q: Are utilities expensive in Harrisburg?
A: Utility costs in Harrisburg are actually slightly below the national average. Expect to pay around $200 per month for a 1,000 sq ft apartment. - Q: How much should I budget for food per month?
A: Plan to spend around $350 per person per month on groceries and dining out. This assumes a mix of home cooking and occasional restaurant meals. - Q: Do most homes in Harrisburg have HOA fees?
A: Many neighborhoods in Harrisburg do have HOAs, which can cost $100 to $300 per month. Be sure to factor this into your housing budget. - Q: How much are property taxes in Harrisburg?
A: The property tax rate in Harrisburg is 0.5%. For a $400,000 home, that comes to $2,000 per year in property taxes.
While Harrisburg offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other parts of the Charlotte metro, it’s important to budget carefully and consider your unique lifestyle needs. Factor in housing, utilities, food, taxes, and transportation to determine if Harrisburg is the right financial fit for you and your family.