Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Anchorage, AK (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Anchorage

Alaska
113

Philadelphia is 25% cheaper than Anchorage.

$1,323/mo ↓ 9%
Median Rent
$1,453/mo ↑ 10%
$60,698/yr ↓ 38%
Median Income
$98,152/yr ↑ 62%
$232,400 ↓ 38%
Home Value
$375,900 ↑ 62%
$1,233/mo ↓ 27%
Owner Costs
$1,698/mo ↑ 38%
1,582,432
Population
289,069

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
0%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.04%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Anchorage, AK, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 113 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $130/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $1,560/year.

Median household income is $37,454/year higher in Anchorage. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $375,900 in Anchorage.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Anchorage — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Anchorage cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 113 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Anchorage?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Anchorage it's $1,453/month — a difference of $130/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Anchorage?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $98,152 in Anchorage. Median household income is $37,454/year higher in Anchorage.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Alaska?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Alaska has 0% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 1.04% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Anchorage?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Anchorage has a cost index of 113 with rent of $1,453/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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