Mortgage Rates in Lancaster, Pennsylvania — May 2026
Updated May 2026 | Based on Lancaster market data and regional lending conditions
With a population of 59,322, Lancaster, Pennsylvania offers a cost of living close to the national average. The current 30-year fixed rate here is 6.74% (0.65% above the national average). The median home price of $254,000 translates to roughly $1,605/month with 20% down — requiring an income of about $68,786, which exceeds the local median of $62,300.
Whether you call it a 30-year mortgage, 30-year home loan, 30-year house loan, or 30-year mortgage loan, the underlying product is the same: a fixed-rate amortizing loan paid over 360 months. In Lancaster, PA, the current 30-year rate is 6.74%. Shorter terms (15-year fixed at 5.98% or 20-year fixed, typically priced between the 15- and 30-year) reduce total interest paid but increase monthly payments — see our 15-year vs 30-year comparison for the math. Government-backed options include FHA loans (6.49%) and VA loans (6.24%), often available at lower rates with reduced down payment requirements.
Current Mortgage Rates in Lancaster, PA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Lancaster area as of May 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.74% | 6.09% | +0.65% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.98% | 5.58% | +0.4% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.24% | 5.95% | +0.29% |
| FHA | 6.49% | 5.85% | +0.64% |
| VA | 6.24% | 5.65% | +0.59% |
| Jumbo | 6.99% | 6.25% | +0.74% |
Lancaster Housing Market Overview
At $254,000, Lancaster offers more affordable housing than most U.S. metros. The local cost of living index is 97.7 (100 = national average), and the median household income of $62,300 still requires careful budgeting at current rate levels.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Lancaster
Based on the median home price of $254,000 with 20% down ($50,800), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Lancaster:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Lancaster
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Lancaster at 5.98% instead of a 30-year at 6.74% would save you $165,780 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $1,713 instead of $1,317 — an increase of $396 per month.
Calculate Your Lancaster Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Lancaster
What are the current mortgage rates in Lancaster, PA?
As of May 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Lancaster, Pennsylvania is 6.74%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.98%. FHA loans average 6.49% and VA loans 6.24%. These rates are 0.65% above the national average of 6.09%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Lancaster?
Based on the median home price of $254,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Lancaster is $1,317 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $288/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $1,605.
What income do I need to buy a home in Lancaster?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $68,786 to afford the median-priced home in Lancaster at $254,000. The median household income in Lancaster is $62,300. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $254,000.
Is Lancaster a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Lancaster offers a below-average cost of living with a cost of living index of 97.7 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in Pennsylvania is 1.36%, which is near the national average. Lancaster has a population of 59,322 and offers a balanced lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other Pennsylvania Cities
Related Tools & Guides
📊 Sources & Methodology
- 30-yr/15-yr fixed rates: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS), weekly national average adjusted for Pennsylvania regional spread.
- Median home price: $254,000 sourced from Redfin / Zillow real estate listings (2026 data).
- Property tax rate: 1.36% effective rate per Tax Foundation 2026 state property tax data.
- Median household income: $62,300 per US Census Bureau ACS 5-year estimate.
- Calculations: standard amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n − 1], with r = monthly rate, n = 360 months, P = loan amount (80% of home price).
Last updated: May 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.