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

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Arlington

Texas
95

Philadelphia is 11% cheaper than Arlington.

$1,323/mo ↓ 5%
Median Rent
$1,389/mo ↑ 5%
$60,698/yr ↓ 17%
Median Income
$73,519/yr ↑ 21%
$232,400 ↓ 16%
Home Value
$276,400 ↑ 19%
$1,233/mo ↓ 13%
Owner Costs
$1,420/mo ↑ 15%
1,582,432
Population
394,769

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
22.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Arlington, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 95 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $66/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $792/year.

Median household income is $12,821/year higher in Arlington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $276,400 in Arlington.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Arlington — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Arlington cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 95 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Arlington?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Arlington it's $1,389/month — a difference of $66/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Arlington?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $73,519 in Arlington. Median household income is $12,821/year higher in Arlington.
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 Arlington?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Arlington has a cost index of 95 with rent of $1,389/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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