Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Allen, TX (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Allen

Texas
137

Philadelphia is 38% cheaper than Allen.

$1,323/mo ↓ 30%
Median Rent
$1,877/mo ↑ 42%
$60,698/yr ↓ 53%
Median Income
$129,130/yr ↑ 113%
$232,400 ↓ 46%
Home Value
$429,900 ↑ 85%
$1,233/mo ↓ 41%
Owner Costs
$2,083/mo ↑ 69%
1,582,432
Population
107,684

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Allen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $554/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $6,648/year.

Median household income is $68,432/year higher in Allen. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $429,900 in Allen.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Allen residents a significant tax advantage over Pennsylvania's 3.07% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Allen — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Allen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 137 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Allen?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Allen it's $1,877/month — a difference of $554/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Allen?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $129,130 in Allen. Median household income is $68,432/year higher in Allen.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Texas?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Allen?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Allen has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,877/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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