Philadelphia, PA vs Atlanta, GA: 85 vs 122

$1,323/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,617/mo ↑ 22%

$60,698/yr ↓ 26%

Median Income

$81,938/yr ↑ 35%

$232,400 ↓ 45%

Home Value

$420,600 ↑ 81%

$1,233/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,695/mo ↑ 37%

1,582,432

Population

499,287

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Atlanta, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 122 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $294/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $3,528/year.

Median household income is $21,240/year higher in Atlanta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $420,600 in Atlanta.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Atlanta — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Atlanta cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 122 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Atlanta?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Atlanta it's $1,617/month — a difference of $294/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Atlanta?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $81,938 in Atlanta. Median household income is $21,240/year higher in Atlanta.

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 Atlanta?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Atlanta has a cost index of 122 with rent of $1,617/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Philadelphia

Atlanta

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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