Philadelphia, PA vs Arvada, CO: 85 vs 152

$1,323/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,802/mo ↑ 36%

$60,698/yr ↓ 46%

Median Income

$113,396/yr ↑ 87%

$232,400 ↓ 61%

Home Value

$600,800 ↑ 159%

$1,233/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$1,948/mo ↑ 58%

1,582,432

Population

122,835

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Arvada, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 152 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $479/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $5,748/year.

Median household income is $52,698/year higher in Arvada. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $600,800 in Arvada.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Arvada — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Arvada cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 152 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Arvada?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Arvada it's $1,802/month — a difference of $479/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Arvada?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $113,396 in Arvada. Median household income is $52,698/year higher in Arvada.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Colorado?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Arvada?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Arvada has a cost index of 152 with rent of $1,802/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Arvada, CO (2026)

Philadelphia

Arvada

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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