Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Allentown, PA (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79

Philadelphia is 8% more expensive than Allentown.

$1,323/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,269/mo ↓ 4%
$60,698/yr ↑ 14%
Median Income
$53,403/yr ↓ 12%
$232,400 ↑ 23%
Home Value
$188,900 ↓ 19%
$1,233/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,243/mo ≈ Same
1,582,432
Population
125,320

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
3.07%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.49%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Allentown, PA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $54/month cheaper in Allentown, saving renters about $648/year.

Median household income is $7,295/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $188,900 in Allentown.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Pennsylvania.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Allentown — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Allentown cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Allentown is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 85 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Allentown?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Allentown it's $1,269/month — a difference of $54/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Allentown?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $53,403 in Allentown. Median household income is $7,295/year higher in Philadelphia.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania?
Both cities are in Pennsylvania and share the same state tax rates: 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Allentown?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Allentown has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,269/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Philadelphia details → View Allentown details →

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