Philadelphia, PA vs Athens, GA: 85 vs 83

$1,323/mo ↑ 14%

Median Rent

$1,162/mo ↓ 12%

$60,698/yr ↑ 18%

Median Income

$51,655/yr ↓ 15%

$232,400 ↓ 14%

Home Value

$271,800 ↑ 17%

$1,233/mo ↑ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,163/mo ↓ 6%

1,582,432

Population

126,987

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Athens, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $161/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $1,932/year.

Median household income is $9,043/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $271,800 in Athens.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Athens — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Athens cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 85 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Athens?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Athens it's $1,162/month — a difference of $161/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Athens?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $51,655 in Athens. Median household income is $9,043/year higher in Philadelphia.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Georgia?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Athens?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Athens has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,162/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Athens, GA (2026)

Philadelphia

Athens

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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