Curious what your budget can buy in Allentown right now? You are not alone. With classic rowhomes, roomy twins, and detached homes across a wide range of prices, it can be tough to know where to start. In this quick guide, you’ll see the most common home styles, typical sizes, and realistic price ranges in Allentown, plus where to find them and how to match them to your goals. Let’s dive in.
The Allentown price picture
Allentown’s typical home value lands in the low to mid $300Ks, depending on the data source and timing. Zillow’s index recently placed the city near $303,265, while other trackers show nearby medians, including a Q3 2025 city median around $285K and a mid‑2025 sold median near $294K. These differences reflect methodology and timing, so use them as a ballpark and confirm with a fresh MLS pull when you are ready.
- Citywide price per square foot often falls around $170–$200.
- Many homes go pending in the low double digits for days on market, with faster movement in hot blocks.
- Prices inside Allentown city limits are generally below some nearby suburbs, so compare city versus township markets when budgeting.
For context, see recent snapshots from sources like PropertyShark’s Allentown market trends and Rocket’s Allentown market report.
Main home styles explained
Rowhomes and attached townhouses
You will find many classic rowhomes near Center City, Old Allentown, and parts of the West End and Southside. Many date to the late 1800s and early 1900s, often with Italianate or Victorian details. Typical sizes range from about 800 to 2,200 square feet.
- Typical price band: about $150K–$325K inside city limits. Smaller or fixer units trend lower, while renovated end units or historic restorations trend higher.
- Expect street parking and smaller yards on many blocks.
- Some streets fall inside historic districts, which can influence exterior updates. You can learn more about preservation context in this overview of Allentown’s historic districts.
Twins (semi‑detached)
Twins are common across older neighborhoods and show up in newer pockets too. Originals are often early 20th century, and modern twins have been built in recent years. Sizes usually run 1,200–2,500 square feet with basements and finished attics in some homes.
- Typical price band: about $220K–$350K.
- Many twins offer modest yards and sometimes a driveway or garage, especially on corner or newer lots.
Single‑family detached homes
Detached homes are scattered throughout the city and just beyond, from historic Victorians and colonials to post‑war ranches and split‑levels. Average sizes for single‑family homes often hover near the high‑1,000s, with many ranging 1,200–3,500+ square feet depending on era and location.
- Typical price band: about $250K–$600K+.
- Larger lots and higher medians are more common toward 18104 and adjacent township areas. For a snapshot of that ZIP’s trends, review 18104 market metrics.
Condos and small multi‑family
Condos and small multi‑family properties exist but make up a smaller slice of the for‑sale market than single‑family and attached homes. City rentals are common near downtown and colleges, with recent asking rents often reported in the roughly $1,600–$1,800 range.
Where to find each style
- Old Allentown and Center City: Many 19th‑century rowhomes with smaller footprints and walkable access to downtown amenities. Neighborhood medians often run below surrounding suburban areas, sometimes near the low‑to‑mid $200Ks.
- West End, Hamilton Park, West Walnut: A mix of renovated singles, twins, and townhouses near parks and transit. Many reports place medians in the low‑to‑mid $300Ks.
- West Park Historic District: Late‑Victorian and early 20th‑century singles and townhouses with preservation guidelines. Expect mid‑$200Ks to mid‑$300Ks depending on size and condition. Read more about historic context here: Allentown historic districts overview.
- Southside and near Little Lehigh Creek: A mix of twins and detached homes, often with modest yards. Inventory can move quickly on well‑kept blocks.
- 18104 and outer city edges: Larger single‑family homes are more common, with higher medians than the citywide average. Many buyers in stronger micro‑markets should plan for the $350K–$500K+ range. Review current context via 18104 market metrics.
What your budget buys in Allentown
Use these ballpark ranges to set expectations, then verify with a live MLS snapshot.
- Under $200K: Smaller rowhomes, 1–2 bedroom condos, or fixer‑uppers in older central neighborhoods. Plan for updates.
- $200K–$300K: Many renovated rowhomes, mid‑range twins, and some smaller detached homes. This is a common band for first‑time buyers.
- $300K–$450K: Larger twins, many single‑family options in West End and nearby areas, and move‑up townhouses in strong condition or close to parks.
- $450K–$650K+: Upper‑tier choices inside or near the city, including larger lots, renovated historic homes, and newer construction in adjacent townships and higher‑priced pockets.
Tip for first‑time buyers: Pennsylvania’s PHFA programs can pair with local mortgages to offer down payment and closing cost assistance, often ranging from about $4,000 to $30,000 depending on eligibility. Explore options like Keystone Home Loan, Keystone Advantage, and K‑FIT through the PHFA home purchase programs page, and speak with a PHFA‑approved lender.
Practical things to consider
Historic‑district guidelines
If you are eyeing Old Allentown, West Park, or Old Fairgrounds, know that exterior changes may require review by the local Historic Architectural Review Board. Windows, porches, and facades are common touchpoints. For local context, see this piece on Allentown’s historic districts and records.
Condition and updates
Many rowhomes and twins are older properties. It is common for inspectors to flag roofs, electrical panels, HVAC, plumbing, and basement waterproofing in pre‑1960 homes. Budget for a full inspection and be ready to prioritize safety and mechanical systems first if you plan renovations.
Parking and lot size
Older rowhomes often rely on street parking and have smaller rear yards. Many twins and detached homes include a driveway or garage. If off‑street parking is essential, filter for it in your search criteria and confirm details on the MLS sheet before touring.
Schools and resale
Neighborhood school districts can influence price ceilings, especially just outside the city in nearby townships. If you plan to move again in a few years, compare city versus township medians and think through how location and condition will affect your future buyer pool. Market snapshots like PropertyShark’s Allentown trends can help you benchmark.
Quick checklist: Which home type fits you?
- Budget: Which of the ranges above fits your comfort zone, including closing costs and any planned updates?
- Space: Do you need 3 bedrooms and a yard, or is a compact layout perfect for now?
- Parking: Is a driveway or garage a must‑have, or will street parking work?
- Renovation tolerance: Are you comfortable with an older home that might need system upgrades, or do you prefer move‑in ready?
- Historic character: Do you want classic details and a walkable block, or lower‑maintenance newer construction?
- Commute and amenities: How close do you want to be to parks, downtown, or major routes like 22 and 222?
Your next step
If you are starting to see the right fit for your budget, the next move is simple: get a fresh, block‑by‑block snapshot of active listings and recent sales. That live data will sharpen your price targets, highlight true comparables, and help you move quickly when the right home pops up.
Ready to explore Allentown homes with a local advisor by your side? Reach out to Cass Chies for a tailored search, live MLS insight, and step‑by‑step guidance from offer to closing.
FAQs
What is the current median home price in Allentown?
- Recent data trackers show the city’s typical value in the low to mid $300Ks, with sources like PropertyShark and Rocket reporting nearby medians in the high $200Ks to just under $300K depending on date and method.
Where are historic homes concentrated in Allentown?
- You will find many late‑19th and early‑20th‑century homes in Old Allentown, West Park, and parts of Center City, where historic‑district guidelines may apply to exterior work.
Are homes in ZIP 18104 more expensive?
- Many reports place 18104 and adjacent township pockets above the citywide average, with larger single‑family homes and prices often running $350K–$500K+ in stronger micro‑markets.
What can I buy around $300,000 in Allentown?
- In many cases, you can target renovated rowhomes, mid‑range twins, or smaller detached homes, especially in central and West End areas, subject to current inventory.
How quickly do Allentown homes sell?
- Market speed varies by block, but many homes go pending in the low double digits for days on market, with well‑priced, move‑in‑ready homes moving faster.
Is there down payment help for first‑time buyers?
- Yes. PHFA programs commonly offer down payment and closing cost assistance that can pair with your mortgage. Review options on the PHFA home purchase page and consult a PHFA‑approved lender.
